Hughes Completes Deployment of Broadband Satellite Networks for Microcom in Democratic Republic of Congo

Leading telecom provider is now offering broadband satellite services powered by Hughes HX System technology in DRC and neighboring countries

News provided by

Hughes Network Systems, LLC

May 10, 2011, 07:00 ET

GERMANTOWN, Md., May 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Hughes Network Systems, LLC (HUGHES), the global leader in broadband satellite networks and services, today announced the deployment of several HX System broadband satellite networks for Microcom DRC, a leading service provider in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), founded by Leon Ntale, CEO. Microcom is operating the HX Systems to provide high-speed Internet access, corporate intranets, and VPN services to customers in DRC and neighboring countries.

The Hughes solution comprises three HX System network operating centers (NOCs) and an initial order of HX200 remote terminals. Microcom, a newly-appointed Hughes integration partner and reseller in the DRC, is providing applications such as high-speed satellite Internet access, corporate intranets for the banking industry and institutional agencies, and integration with WiMax networks for the mining sector, as well as VPN services. These services are being offered to organizations in the DRC and in neighboring countries in West and Central Africa under the footprint of Intelsat's IS25 satellite.

"As a well-known telecommunications provider in the DRC for more than 20 years and an ISP for the past 10 years, it was critical for Microcom to choose a satellite system supplier with impeccable credentials," said Mr. Ntale. "After a very competitive selection process, we chose Hughes because they offered the best solution and support, as well as their own experience as a service provider."

"Hughes is proud to have been chosen by Microcom for their important networks in the DRC," said Robert Feierbach, vice president of International Sales and Marketing for Hughes. "Our powerful and cost-effective HX technology enables Microcom to offer high-grade broadband Internet at an affordable price, and to meet the growing demand for satellite services in the DRC market, particularly in the strong mining communications sector."

Microcom currently operates WiMax terrestrial wireless networks but needed to further extend their reach, and satellite technology was the only viable solution to cover all of the DRC and the neighboring countries. Microcom is now able to offer their customers the latest, leading-edge Hughes HX satellite technology for Internet and VPN connectivity services, under tailored service plans with competitive pricing and high service level commitments.

About Microcom DRC

Founded in 1982, Microcom is the leading Internet access service provider in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Congo Brazzaville, with a private satellite network in twelve cities in DRC. In each city, Internet access is provided by a WiMax broadband wireless access network designed for providing high-speed data to Internet users. Microcom is also the builder of the first African WiMax network with more than 6,000 CPEs installed. For additional information, please visit www.micronet.cd.

About Hughes Network Systems

Hughes Network Systems, LLC (Hughes) is the world's leading provider of satellite broadband for home and office, delivering innovative network technologies, managed services, and solutions for enterprises and governments globally. HughesNet® is the #1 high-speed satellite Internet service in the marketplace, with offerings to suit every budget. To date, Hughes has shipped more than 2.5 million systems to customers in over 100 countries, representing over 50 percent market share. Its products employ global standards approved by the TIA, ETSI and ITU organizations, including IPoS/DVB-S2, RSM-A, and GMR-1.

Headquartered outside Washington, D.C., in Germantown, Maryland, USA, Hughes operates sales and support offices worldwide, and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hughes Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: HUGH). For more information, please visit www.hughes.com.

Hughes and HughesNet are registered trademarks of Hughes Network Systems, LLC.

SOURCE Hughes Network Systems, LLC