Verso Technologies and Shiron Satellite Communications Ltd. announced the completion of interoperability tests between Verso and the Shiron Intersky 2-Way Satellite IP Broadband platform. The companies also announced their joint deployment of a GSM backhaul over satellite solution for a leading cellular operator in Colombia.

Yves Desmet, senior vice president of worldwide sales for Verso Technologies, said the alliance improves Verso’s ability to deliver cost-effective GSM backhaul over satellite.

Oscar Glottmann, vice president of sales and marketing for Israel-based Shiron Satellite Communications, said the deal will enable cellular operators to implement “reliable, cost-effective and field solutions for deployment of remote micro-cells over satellite, offering savings of more than 65 percent over traditional satellite solutions.”