Yahsat, a satellite operator based in the UAE, and Hughes Network Systems, will form a joint venture to provide Ka-band satellite broadband services across Africa, the Middle East and southwest Asia.
Hughes, a global leader in broadband satellite networks, will purchase a minority interest in the venture. The new venture will provide Internet services operating over Yahsat’s Al Yah 2 (AY2) and Al Yah 3 (AY3) Ka-band satellites, and leveraging the capabilities of the Hughes JUPITER System.

Hughes will also supply its Operating and Business Support System (OSS/BSS) solutions for network operations and management.

The venture will focus on direct-to-premise services to homes and small- to medium-sized enterprises, and to community centers and schools that are served under local government programs across these regions.

The venture will also aim to capitalize on the accelerating transition towards Ka-band based backhaul and carrier solutions from mobile network operators.

“This is an important step in achieving our vision to providing global satellite broadband services to individuals, communities, governments and businesses in unserved and underserved communities,” Masood M Sharif Mahmood, chief executive officer of Yahsat, said.

Pradman Kaul, president of Hughes, said that the company’s investment in the venture will expand presence in Africa, the Middle East and southwest Asia markets.