BSNL selects Novelsat for satellite broadband, backhaul services

State-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) on Friday selected Israeli satellite transmission firm Novelsat to provide high-capacity satellite-based backhaul and broadband services to Lakshadweep, Andaman, and Nicobar Islands under a Universal Service Obligation (USO) project funded by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).

The contract was awarded by System Integrator Precision Electronics Ltd (PEL) on behalf of BSNL.

Under the partnership, BSNL will use Novelsat’s Xnet Data Hub system for flexibility in its growing network.

The mobile operator will also use Novelsat’s DynamiX technology for dynamic allocation of network resources in MCPC/Point-to-Multi-Point networks on top of Novelsat’s NS4 waveform for improved network economics, the company said.

Last month, U.S.-based ST Engineering iDirect inked a partnership with BSNL to provide satellite broadband to the Indian islands of Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep.

“BSNL’s network requires the highest levels of network quality and flexibility. Novelsat’s proven track record, combined with its leading-edge technology, allows us to rapidly expand our network and offer better services to our customers,” said Sanjay Kumar, GM (Radio) at BSNL.

“We are honored to play a part in the rollout of enhanced broadband connectivity to the people of Lakshadweep, Andaman, and the Nicobar Islands, and we are committed to supporting BSNL during these challenging times, as it implements its network development,” said Gary Drutin, CEO of Novelsat.