From the emergence of high definition programming in developing regions to the urgent need for capacity to support unmanned aerial vehicle missions, Intelsats global communications infrastructure delivered more connectivity, to more countries, than any other satellite operator.
There are three major trends shaping the industry and driving our strategies to support our customers growth requirements:
- The globalization of content, be it special events or regional programming reaching international audiences
- The ever-present need for connectivity, especially in emerging regions like Africa and Latin America
- The increased use of commercial SATCOM services by governments worldwide
Intelsat works with broadcasters to identify the most efficient means to enter new regions. On average, the top 20 video distribution customers buy service on our network across three or more geographic regions, demonstrating the value provided by the global reach of this network. The IntelsatONE MCPC platforms and leading video neighborhoods enable broadcasters to economically extend their programming reach to new audiences abroad.
Cellular backhaul services continue to be an important application where satellite remains a significant element for expanding infrastructure and connectivity. In our experience, the availability and quality of terrestrial-based services decline as the distance from urban areas increases. Work continues with customers to support their infrastructure build-out beyond the fiber access point. For example, in Latin America, Intelig Telecom of Brazil will enhance its cellular service via the Intelsat 14 satellite, enabling it to expand its network that serves more than 41 million mobile users.
Another example of connectivity can be found in the Companys approach to meeting the challenges of maritime broadband. Intelsats mobility offering allows customers to take advantage of the Ku-band beams designed into six of the satellites in our current launch plan. Maritime data service leaders Newwave Broadband and Vizadas Marlink unit are using Intelsat capacity to develop compelling broadband offerings for the maritime industry.
Hosted payloads offer an avenue to fill this gap. In April, the remaining channels of the Intelsat 22 satellites UHF payload to the Australian Defence Force were sold off and, in August, the construction of IS-27 was announced. The satellite will include a UHF payload for use in government applications. Intelsat understands the militarys need for control and autonomy, and believes that UHF payloads offer numerous options to the DoD.
In addition to hosted payloads, the U.S. Navy selected Intelsat to bring the most advanced, next-generation network to its fleet through the Commercial Broadband Satellite Program (CBSP). A team of satellite operators and integrators were assembled to provide the Navy with a solution that includes unparalleled flexibility, depth of operations, growth and surge options, and a future vision for network enhancements. The offering that will be delivered includes the use of C-, Ku- and X-band satellite capacity.
In addition, IntelsatONESM was introduced, the Companys integrated terrestrial network of PoPs, teleports, and IP/MPLS based fiber, which fuses with the satellite network to deliver a single platform for converged voice, video and data solutions. Our commitment to providing a hybrid terrestrial-satellite solution is unique when compared to other satellite operators. IntelsatONE delivers the single platform customers demand when seeking a global, diverse communications system. This also holds true for Intelsats fleet replenishment program, as the right capacity continues to build out, in the correct location, offering frequency bands that will serve customers long-term business needs.