O3b Networks, a developer of high speed, satellite-based internet networks for telecoms operators and ISPs across the world, has announced the signing of a global framework agreement with UAE-based telecoms company Etisalat. The five-year agreement will see O3b provide mobile backhaul, trunking and next generation services to Etisalat’s operating companies. Under the deal, any of Etisalat’s subsidiaries will be able to benefit from O3b services. ‘Our framework agreement with O3b Networks will allow us to provide our subsidiaries across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia with state-of-the-art satellite broadband services,’ commented Saeed Al Bahhar, Etisalat Group’s chief carrier services officer, adding: ‘This will provide each subsidiary with a competitive advantage in its own market, allowing it to reduce costs and increase network efficiency. The service portfolio on offer will address mission-critical network applications like IP trunking, mobile backhaul and satellite connectivity for businesses.’ Etisalat serves over 110 million customers in 18 countries.
In a separate deal, Indian IT services, consultation and business solutions firm Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has signed an IT managed services contract with Dubai-based operator Du. The five-year agreement supplements Du’s aggressive growth strategy and its continuous focus on enhancing the company’s capabilities in service delivery.