Speedcast International Limited (ASX: SDA) has been awarded a VSAT license to operate in Iraq through the firm's locally licensed entity, prompting the completion of a new systems integration project providing managed network services for an international oilfield services group in the country.
The VSAT license is a strict new requirement as of January 2017 for service providers operating in Iraq, which was previously covered under the yearly telecommunications license required to operate communications networks in-country. Speedcast’s local entity has renewed its general telecommunications license in addition to being awarded the VSAT-specific license, allowing the company to continue to support customers in the region for satellite connectivity as well as other telecommunications and technology services.
The project scope includes four sites at a major oilfield in southern Iraq, using Speedcast’s locally licensed entity to deliver communications services and 24x7 support. The sites are equipped with terrestrial, microwave and satellite connectivity, CCTV, video conferencing, WAN optimization and a range of IT equipment. Fiber and microwave serve as the primary connections with satellite providing backup. Terrestrial and VSAT networks were provided together to ensure business continuity for both operator and service contractors, so both drilling and critical business data could be transmitted 100 percent of the time. Under the terms of the agreement, Speedcast will also provide end-user VSAT licenses.
Speedcast’s system integration experience spans 30 years and includes engineering and design, procurement, testing, installation and maintenance for complete communications needs — from entertainment systems and security and monitoring services to navigation equipment, video streaming, internet of things (IoT) and more.
According to Keith Johnson, EVP, Energy, Speedcast, obtaining the VSAT license is a huge win for the company, as it was essential for the firm to continue providing reliable communications to international customers doing business in Iraq. The customer Speedcast is supporting for this systems integration project is new to operating in the country and was looking for an experienced international service provider they could trust. Speedcast’s unique experience in providing ruggedized communications equipment and highly reliable services made the firm a great fit for the environment, which includes extreme temperatures and desert conditions. Being one of the few companies with the license to provide managed satellite communications in-country, Speedcast is able to exceed the customer’s needs with the dependability and professionalism that has made the company a leader in the industry.