Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. announced April 26 it has delivered a SkyEdge broadband VSAT satellite network to the Telecommunications Cooperative of Santa Cruz de la Sierra (COTAS), Bolivia’s second-largest telecommunication operator.

COTAS’ deployment of the SkyEdge VSAT network will fulfill a Universal Service Obligation to meet the modern telecommunications requirements of rural communities. Gilat’s SkyEdge solution will enable COTAS to deploy a large communication network across remote areas quickly and affordably.

The VSAT sites will be based in schools, small businesses and public call offices throughout Bolivia, providing telephony and high-speed Internet service. In the near future, COTAS expects to expand its coverage to bordering countries such as Brazil, Argentina, Peru and Chile.

Gilat’s SkyEdge provides a satellite communication platform that delivers voice, data and video services over a single system.