[Satellite TODAY 01-16-12] O3b Networks has entered into partnerships with General Dynamics’ Satcom Technologies, Comtech EF Data and Gilat Satellite Networks to provide a comprehensive range of customer access systems for use on the O3b network, the company announced Jan. 13.

   The three new partners will join O3b’s existing partner ViaSat to provide technology capable of delivering throughputs up to 1 Gbps.

General Dynamics will manufacture 1.8-meter and 2.4-meter antennas for use with a series of standard transmitter packages. Comtech EF Data will offer a line of O3b-ready modems and hub systems based on its CDM modem products. O3b said its Comtech EF Data solution would include compression and network optimization functionality developed specifically for mobile backhaul and trunking applications.

   Gilat Satellite Networks will provide high-capability VSAT hubs and modems based on its SkyEdge 2 platform. Gilat O3b modems will support both standard GEO and O3b MEO operation, and will be customized for cellular backhaul and IP trunking applications.

   “This versatile range of access solutions complements the high-speed O3b terminals already available from ViaSat. All are based on reliable and proven technology, tailored for O3b’s unique capabilities and enhanced to provide state of the art functionality to serve the challenging markets in which our customers operate,” O3b CCO John Finney said in a statement.