Intelsat, GCI Expand Alaska Partnership with Multi-Orbit Satellite Services

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Intelsat, operator of one of the world’s largest integrated satellite and terrestrial networks, signed an expanded satellite services agreement with GCI, Alaska’s largest telecommunications company, that will soon deliver multi-orbit broadband services throughout the largest state in the U.S.

“Four years ago, Intelsat and GCI entered into an agreement that dramatically increased the size and speed of GCI’s geostationary satellite network in rural Alaska and cemented GCI as the state’s leader in satellite connectivity,” said Mike DeMarco, Chief Commercial Officer. “This new chapter of our partnership expands our agreement to include next-generation low-earth orbit satellite services and leverages the best of what Intelsat has to offer.”

GCI has delivered satellite-based connectivity for 35 years and has the largest footprint of satellite-delivered data, video and voice services in Alaska. The new deal with Intelsat ensures GCI will be able to meet the growing demands of customers including regional tribal health care providers, school districts, government agencies, and businesses. The agreement not only provides GCI continued access to reliable C-, Ku-, and Ka-band GEO service, which is already part of GCI's satellite service portfolio, it also provides access to high-throughput LEO service managed by Intelsat.

"For over a decade, GCI and Intelsat have been working together to meet the evolving needs of GCI’s satellite customers and to bring the best technology to the table,” said GCI Senior VP of Corporate Development Billy Wailand. “Our expanded agreement will give GCI access to Intelsat’s broad portfolio of proven, high availability GEO services, next-generation LEO service, and deep expertise in managed satellite services."

Delivering service in Alaska requires a comprehensive approach and a willingness to use “every tool in the toolkit.” For GCI, that toolkit includes fiber, microwave, as well as GEO and LEO satellite services. GCI will rely on wholesale satellite capacity as well as Intelsat’s fully managed solutions. Those managed services allow GCI to quickly bring their own solutions to market without the need to invest in additional satellite ground infrastructure to provide quality connectivity for end customers.