[Satellite Today 06-17-09] Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. will provide CAT Telecom Public Co. Ltd. a SkyEdge 2 broadband satellite network to serve rural locations throughout Thailand, Gilat announced July 16.
    The system, contracted by SCS-Loxley Consortium and Loxley Wireless Co. Ltd., includes equipment, installation, technical support and training. CAT, Thailand’s state-owned public communications agency, will use the VSATs to provide rural citizens with telephony and broadband Internet access at public call offices throughout the country as part of a Universal Service Obligation.
    “After evaluating several VSAT providers, we determined that Gilat provided the optimal combination of superior technology, qualified support and experience meeting [Universal Service Obligation],” Thongyai Chanthanawan, SCS-Loxley Consortium director, said in a statement. “By providing optimal bandwidth efficiency, Gilat’s SkyEdge 2 platform will help ensure our deployment of the most cost-effective solution over the long term.”