Gilat Satellite Networks (Nasdaq: GILTF; TASE: GILTF) has been selected by a consortium of Mexican technology firms to provide a network of nearly 7,000 SkyEdge VSATs for use in more than 16,000 Mexican public-school classrooms. The deployment of the network hub and terminals has just begun.
No value was disclosed for the contract, but it is estimated to be worth some $7 million.
Gilat has combined its equipment and technical support services to provide a satellite solution to monitor the operation and usage of the Mexican Ministry of Education's (SEP) Enciclomedia program, a computer-based program that integrates federal education resources such as textbooks, digital content and virtual activities. The solution will also provide broadband Internet access. The Mexican government considers Enciclomedia to be an important education project and expects it to eventually reach more than 140,000 classrooms.
Gilat's integral satellite monitoring solution was selected by a consortium of firms including Accesorios y Suministros Informaticos, S.A. de C.V. (ASISA) and Alef Soluciones Integrales, S.A. de C.V. (Alef) - two of Mexico's leading information technology integrators - and Corporativo Lanix, S.A. de C.V. (Lanix), Mexico's largest computer manufacturer.
In addition to nearly 7,000 VSAT terminals, Gilat is providing more than 16,000 classroom monitoring systems, a solution which has been developed by the company specifically for this application.
Gilat Network Systems CEO Erez Antebi said, "Our experience working with governments worldwide to improve their public communications infrastructure and educational services has been invaluable in our support of the SEP program. We are providing a total solution that includes very advanced satellite, wireless and monitoring devices with local technical and implementation support."
Gilat shares closed on Friday at $5.79, giving the company a market cap of $131 million.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes.co.il - on March 13, 2006
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