SkyVision Launches iDirect Evolution Network to Expand VSAT Coverage in Africa

HERNDON, Va., May 30, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- VT iDirect, Inc. (iDirect), a company of VT Systems, Inc. (VT Systems), today announced that SkyVision Global Networks Ltd. (SkyVision), a leading global provider of IP connectivity over satellite and fiber optic systems, has expanded its VSAT coverage in Africa by launching an iDirect Evolution network. The provider has deployed an iDirect 5IF satellite hub in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), allowing it to extend its SkyVision VPN service to local government and enterprise customers. iDirect is a world leader in satellite-based IP communications technology.

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The expansion of SkyVision's VPN service allows local and global organizations located in DRC to connect branches with headquarters, making it possible to share information and collaborate efficiently via voice and data applications. Given DRC's large size and scattered population, there is high-demand for reliable communications access, especially in remote areas. SkyVision is contributing to the country's development and growth by serving a broad range of organizations including utilities, mining, public sector and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). SkyVision's new iDirect hub in DRC is the provider's fifth in Africa since upgrading its VSAT services to iDirect's Evolution platform in 2009.

Evolution provides SkyVision with a highly reliable VSAT solution and a scalable platform so it can meet customer needs and keep pace with Africa's rapid economic growth. Based on the next-generation DVB-S2 transmission standard with Adaptive Coding and Modulation (ACM), Evolution delivers exceptional bandwidth efficiency and availability to help SkyVision guarantee high Service Level Agreements (SLAs) that its customers require to ensure their critical enterprise applications run smoothly. And because iDirect's platform is built around IP, SkyVision is able to easily integrate its VSAT network with terrestrial and wireless networks to enable a seamless connectivity experience for customers no matter where they are located.

"Our DRC network is our latest Evolution implementation in what has been a very successful iDirect partnership. Our promise is to always provide our customers with the solutions they need for the best prices. Evolution enables us to achieve this goal through a highly flexible, reliable platform."

"SkyVision's VPN service in DRC adds to the world-class Internet connectivity solutions that it has provided in Africa over the past decade, helping foster enterprise growth in the region. With Evolution, SkyVision has the flexibility to offer customers a stand-alone network or a hybrid integration of terrestrial and VSAT connectivity, depending on their needs. We are pleased to support the continued expansion of SkyVision's Evolution services across the continent to serve a variety of critical markets."

SkyVision is a leading global IP telecommunication service provider to emerging markets, offering solutions that combine satellite service platforms with high-capacity fiber optic connections. Via its gateways in Europe, North America, Africa and the Middle East, the company provides IP connectivity with access to the global Internet backbone, as well as an extensive suite of both customized end-to-end solutions and industry-standard services. With a connectivity network spanning 100 countries, SkyVision's solutions combine global reach with active local presence and support.  SkyVision's customers include incumbent telecoms, ISPs, cellular operators, global and local enterprises, government entities and NGOs. (www.skyvision.net).

iDirect, a subsidiary of VT Systems, is transforming the way the world gets and stays connected. The company's satellite-based IP communications technology enables constant connectivity for voice, video and data applications in diverse and challenging environments. The iDirect Intelligent Platform™ integrates advanced technology into iDirect's portfolio of hubs, routers and network management software to address the growing complexity of deploying and managing global IP networks. With more than 15 years of global satellite communications experience, iDirect serves customers in over 50 countries through a diverse network of service provider partners, including seven of the World Teleport Association's Global Top Ten operators. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, iDirect has offices in Europe, Middle East, Africa and Latin America. In 2007, iDirect Government Technologies (iGT) was set up to drive adoption of its IP-based solutions in the US Government market. In 2008, iDirect Asia Pte Ltd was established in Singapore to enhance its value-add and responsiveness to customers in the Asia Pacific region.  Please visit www.idirect.net.

VT Systems is an engineering company providing integrated solutions to the commercial and government markets in the aerospace, electronics, land systems and marine sectors.  VT Systems' innovative solutions, products and services include aircraft maintenance, repair and modification; software solutions in training and simulation; satellite-based IP communications technology; network solutions that integrate data, voice and video; rugged computers and computer peripheral equipment; specialized truck bodies and trailers; weapons and munitions systems; road construction equipment; and ship design and shipbuilding. Headquartered in Alexandria, Va., VT Systems operates globally and is a wholly owned subsidiary of ST Engineering.  Please visit www.vt-systems.com.

SOURCE iDirect