Israeli satellite operator Spacecom has signed an agreement to use Azerspace’s satellites to extend the geographical coverage of its services, in particular in Africa.
Since 2019, Spacecom has been ramping up initiatives to gain a foothold in the African satellite-based telecom services market. The company acquired a 9.3% stake in Canadian firm NuRAN Wireless in June 2021 for $3.2m.
The two parties signed a cooperation agreement for the joint implementation of long-term projects.
The new partnership with Azercosmos is part of Spacecom’s expansion strategy in Africa, which began in 2019. The company aims to become one of the main providers of satellite communication solutions and services on the continent in a particularly marked context by the growing demand for high-speed connectivity and digital transformation. It is therefore multiplying the initiatives and strategic partnerships to this effect.
Azercosmos has two geostationary satellites, both US-built and launched by French company Arianespace from Kourou, French Guiana. They orbit above the equator at 45.1° and 46° east and provide video and data services.
Commenting on the deal, Yon Rosenberg, Spacecom’s Chief Revenue Officer, said: “We see the use of telecommunication and teleport services of Azercosmos as an important step for the development of our joint space activities. Azerspace satellites are among the most dynamic satellites in the African market and they will provide quality services in digital broadcasting.”
Spacecom will extend its services to millions more people, including those living in rural and remote areas whose access is difficult for terrestrial telecom operators’ networks. According to the Global System Operators’ Association (GSMA), only 515m people were subscribed to telecom services in sub-Saharan Africa at the end of 2021. This figure represents 46% of the region’s population.
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