Thuraya Satcom Solutions Deployed
for Japanese Relief Operations
Abu Dhabi, 21st March 2011: : Following the devastating 9.0 magnitude earthquake which struck Japan, triggering the 23-foot Tsunami that damaged the terrestrial fixed and mobile networks, the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) in coordination with Thuraya have deployed vital satellite communication equipment to enable relief efforts. This includes the world’s smallest broadband solution, Thuraya IP and satellite handheld phones.
Satellite communications are providing reliable and robust communications which are being used by local government organisations responsible for coordinating search and rescue efforts.
“Thuraya has always played a pivotal role in providing reliable communications during and after natural disasters to facilitate search and rescue operations and assist humanitarian efforts within our 140-country coverage area. Thuraya IP is easily deployable, rugged and backed by a robust satellite network ensuring that government organisations, NGOs and other consumers are able to perform their daily activities during such difficult times. We are proud to be able to assist the Japanese people following the earthquake through our relationship with the ITU and our solutions,” said Thuraya’s Vice President Corporate and Marketing Communications, Mr. Ebrahim K. Ebrahim.
On a similar note, the Head of the ITU’s Division for Emergency Telecommunications, Mr. Cosmos Zavazava said, “The power of sustainable partnerships continues to manifest itself as the international community rallies behind countries affected by natural disasters. Our profound appreciation goes to all our partners, and Thuraya is a long-standing contributor to the ITU Framework for Cooperation in Emergencies across the globe. Recently, Thuraya generously contributed to our efforts to save lives in Samoa, Uganda, Malawi, Pakistan, Indonesia, and Japan in the immediate aftermath of devastating disasters.”
Thuraya’s IP is the world’s smallest satellite broadband solution which offers data services in a compact terminal that has a user-friendly interface easing communications for mission-critical projects rapidly. Similarly, Thuraya’s handhelds in addition to voice communication provides GPS navigation and data services as well as other significant functionalities which are essential for relief operations.
Thuraya is a world leading mobile satellite operator that covers more than two thirds of the globe from Iceland to Australia. As such Thuraya provides blanket coverage over Japan including the surrounding waterways allowing high-quality satellite communication service at all times.
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About Thuraya (www.thuraya.com)
Thuraya provides cost-effective mobile satellite services in more than 140 countries in Asia, Africa, Europe, Australia and the Middle East. Services provided by Thuraya include broadband, maritime, mobile voice that support dual GSM and satellite mode, rural telephony, fleet management and other advanced applications that enable people and businesses everywhere under its coverage to enjoy constant access to communications and information. Thuraya enhances sectors such as oil and gas, mining, agriculture, NGOs and maritime services through its cutting edge technology.
The Company launched its third satellite in January 2008, which has brought countries of the Asia-Pacific region under its footprint and extended its coverage to nearly two thirds of the globe’s population.
Thuraya was founded in 1997 by a consortium of leading national telecommunications operators and reputed investment firms from the region.
For more information, please contact:
Mr. Ebrahim K. Ebrahim
Corporate Communications Department
Thuraya Telecommunications Co.
Post Box 283333 Dubai, UAE
Tel: 971-4-4488-828
Fax: 971-4-4488-899
Email: e_ebrahim@thuraya.com
