[Satellite TODAY 09-07-11] KVH has launched its mini-VSAT broadband service for its subscribers in South America – a move that marks the completion of the company’s original global coverage plan for the maritime satellite communications network, KVH announced Sept. 6.

   The spread-spectrum mini-VSAT service launch follows a string of network expansions and improvements made by KVH and its partner ViaSat over the last two years.

KVH mini-VSAT Broadband equips maritime vessels with download data rates of up to 2 Megabits-per-second and upload speeds as fast as 1 Megabit-per-second to support. The service also provides Voice over IP (VoIP) telephone lines with optimized service and application prioritization capabilities. The mini-VSAT network uses ViaSat ArcLight spread-spectrum technology.

   “In addition to completing the global maritime coverage, this expansion is also another key component of our expanding global network for aviation. South America is a key and fast expanding market segment for our Yonder high-speed Internet service, and this new coverage area addresses increasing demand both locally and from abroad," ViaSat Mobile Broadband Director Don Buchman said in a statement.