Global Broadband Solution, signs multi-million dollar contract with O3b Networks

April 29, 2009,

Global Broadband Solution (GBS) has signed a multi-year, multi-million dollar contract for O3b Networks’ Quick Start service. O3b’s Quick Start carrier managed service provides high-bandwidth, low-latency Internet access directly to GBS. Once connected, GBS will offer more affordable, high speed Internet access to its customers over their infrastructure, which includes a WiMax network.  

O3b Networks, funded by Google Inc., Liberty Global, Inc. and HSBC Principal Investments, is building the world’s first ultra-low-latency, fibre-speed satellite network. The network is designed to improve Internet access for the millions of consumers and businesses in emerging and developing markets. Satellite delivery is scheduled for late 2010.  

“O3B’s internet backhaul service is a key element in our on-going project to build the first nationwide 4G mobile Internet wireless network in DRC,” said Daniel Vanderstraete, President of GBS.  “By combining the affordable low latency bandwidth of O3B and the new 4G mobile WiMAX technology, we are bringing an unprecedented combination of speed and mobility to DRC”.    

“GBS is one of the preeminent service providers in the Democratic Republic of Congo and other parts of sub-Saharan Africa,” said John Finney, EVP Sales and Marketing for O3b Networks, Ltd. “Their long standing experience and knowledge of the African ICT market combined with O3b’s low latency, high bandwidth network will ensure broad deployment of robust internet services in the DRC.”