[Satellite TODAY 09-01-09] Hughes do Brasil, the Brazilian operating unit of Hughes Network Systems, has signed agreements with two Brazilian cellular operators to provide turn-key managed services connecting 79 regional base transceiver stations sites to their GSM networks over a 60-month period, Hughes announced Aug. 31.
    The contract was driven by Brazilian government incentives for cellular operators to provide service to remote, unserved areas, Hughes said. The Brazilian government is requiring operators to provide rural service in exchange for granting spectrum and licenses for delivery of 3G voice, data, and video services in lucrative urban locations.
    “In Brazil, GSM backhaul over satellite is a triple-win solution. Operators can grow their businesses and build revenue while complying with universal service obligation,” Delio Morais, president of Hughes do Brasil, said in a statement.
    Hughes deployed the two networks within 70 days after the agreements were signed, including importing the required satellite equipment, shipment to the remote locations and activation of the links, the company said.
    Financial details of the contract were not disclosed.

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