[SatNews] Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILT) and THAICOM Public Company Limited (SET BKK: THCOM) have signed a Cooperation Framework Agreement. As part of this agreement, the companies will provide customers across the Asia-Pacific region with an integrated solution using Gilat's satellite ground equipment in conjunction with the THAICOM-4 (IPSTAR) high throughput satellite (HTS).

"We are very pleased to sign the cooperation framework agreement with Gilat," said Ms. Suphajee Suthumpun, Chairman of the Executive Committee and CEO of THAICOM. "Our two companies have a solid long term relationship as highlighted by the very successful collaboration in the National Broadband Network (NBN) project in Australia. This agreement will further strengthen our partnership in the region and provide a competitive solution for our customers."

This cooperation is another step in THAICOM's Open Access Platform (OAP) strategy, which allows technology equipment vendors to access THAICOM-4 (IPSTAR) high throughput satellite, providing customers with more choices and flexibility to better serve their requirements.

"The Asia-Pacific region is a significant growing market for Gilat," said Erez Antebi, CEO of Gilat Satellite Networks. "We are pleased to expand this very important partnership with THAICOM. We view this agreement as strategic for both Gilat and for our customers throughout the region. The increased cooperation will serve to bring our customers an even more attractive broadband satellite-based solution that combines our SkyEdge II-c platform and the IPStar satellite capacity."