RTComm is the satellite service arm of Russia’s national telecommunications operator Rostelecom. NIIR FSUE is an institute for technology advancement that serves as part of the Ministry for Telecommunications and Mass Communications of the Russian Federation. The cooperation between the parties includes transfer of technology required for local manufacture in Russia, as well as research and development.

   Gilat said it would provide high-speed broadband capabilities that aim to help bridge the digital divide across the Russian Federation.

   “We chose Gilat as the best partner for bringing Ka-band to Russia — both in terms of technology and as a long-term partner,” RTComm General Manager Valeriy Lokhin said in a statement. “We rigorously evaluated a number of satellite broadband solutions, and we are confident that the technological level of Gilat’s solution, as well as positive experience of Ku-band projects implementation, will enable fast and effective rollout of this nationwide project approved by the Government of the Russian Federation.”

   Gilat Chairman of the Board and CEO Amiram Levinberg said the award was important for Gilat to reinforce its position in the Ka-band marketplace. “We see Ka-band technology expanding to more regions in the world, and offering new opportunities with much higher capacities and at lower prices to the subscribers.”