ViaSat gateways to enhance Astrolink

CARLSBAD, CA -– ViaSat Inc. and Astrolink International LLC have entered into a contract under which ViaSat will develop and manufacture service provider gateways for the Astrolink system.

The initial contract value of approximately $30 million includes development, integration and delivery of gateways supporting Astrolink's expected service launch in 2003.

These Ka-band gateways will provide Astrolink and its service providers a high-capacity interface with the terrestrial network and support for managing their associated customers. Under the contract, Astrolink can order additional gateways as it expands its customer base globally.

"The combination of this service provider gateway contract with our existing Astrolink contract for user terminals positions ViaSat to provide a full suite of Ka-band, ground system capabilities for the broadband satellite market. These contracts reflect Astrolink’s confidence in our technology and leadership position in this market," said Steve Cable, vice presidentof ViaSat broadband systems.

"We are delighted to have ViaSat extend its commitment to Astrolink to include the service provider gateways," said Steve Soroka, Astrolink's vice president of system operations. "The combination of contracts we have with ViaSat will allow us to take advantage of the synergies in the elements of the Astrolink ground segment."