Gilat Satellite Networks has announced that Spanish satellite operator HISPASAT is expanding its broadband satellite-based network with an additional SkyEdge II system.

The new contract marks the third segment expansion of the network launched in 2011 in support of the Spanish government's Avanza 100% broadband access program.

The SkyEdge II system will support thousands of new broadband users residing in under-serviced areas across Spain expected to join the network by the end of this year.

"The ongoing success of this project is made possible thanks to the strong partnership Gilat and HISPASAT have developed collaborating on this national initiative", said Pedro Pinto Marin, Director Broadband Services at HISPASAT.

"The flexibility embedded in Gilat's SkyEdge II system allowed us to offer our customers residing in under-serviced areas a true alternative for broadband access both in terms of performance and price."

As part of the network, Gilat's SkyEdge II system supports 32APSK Adaptive Coding and Modulation transmission to maximize space segment efficiency. Combined with the beam capabilities of HISPASAT's 1E satellite, the network can boast speeds of up to 100 Mbps per 36 MHz transponder.

This is a key feature for providing high quality services for the residential sector at prices low enough to rival those offered by terrestrial networks.

"We are delighted to have been awarded this opportunity to strengthen our relationship with HISPASAT. Their satellite engineering excellence coupled with Gilat's innovative technology has proved that efficient and optimized VSAT solutions can be applied to the residential internet access market," said Aharon Fuchs, Gilat's Regional Vice President Europe.

"We look forward to applying our combined expertise to other markets across the world, and to leveraging new Ka-band frequencies as they become available."