Yahsat subsidiary Thuraya has announced that it is providing always-on satellite connectivity to Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services through its partner, Cygnus Telecom. As the UAE steps up its efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services is playing a critical role in the implementation of health measures introduced to protect the country’s residents.
Following the launch of Mobile Laboratory Units (MLUs) by Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services to provide free home-based testing, Cygnus Telecom, the master distributor of Thuraya’s voice solutions has equipped 12 ambulances with the X5-Touch satellite phones so that paramedics remain connected while on duty in the remote areas of Dubai such as Hatta, or on marine ambulances at sea.
The Android-based Thuraya X5-Touch is a satellite phone with various safety features ideal for medical responders, including advanced navigation, tracking and built-in SOS button for emergencies.
In addition to providing crucial satellite connectivity, it keeps users connected over terrestrial telecom networks so that they are also available on their local mobile numbers. This is especially advantageous for on-the-move paramedics who may have to provide urgent care in remote areas disconnected from cellular mobile networks. The X5-Touch also enables integration of third-party apps that amplify its effectiveness around the world.
Commenting on the satellite connectivity, Khalifa Hassan Aldrai, Executive Director of Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, said: “The decision by Thuraya and Cygnus Telecom to fit our vehicles with satellite phones is both timely and commendable. The ongoing collaboration among us is a testament to the cooperation across organisations and individuals to support the government’s efforts to protect our people.”
Shawkat Ahmed, Chief Commercial Officer of Thuraya remarked: “We thank Cygnus Telecom for their generous donation of the next generation Thuraya X5-Touch satellite phones to Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services. These devices provide frontline responders seamless connectivity, security and maximum flexibility over our satellite network, helping them to be always available through their proprietary app and other platforms and thereby augment overall medical responsiveness.”
Asim Khattak, Chief Operating Officer of Cygnus Telecom added: “Our choice of Thuraya X5-Touch is based on the reliability factors ensuring uninterrupted communication-on-the-move, which will enable ambulances and paramedics to enhance their heroic efforts in fighting the Coronavirus. It is crucial that our frontline of defence against the contagion is equipped with a leading-edge means of communications, and we are honoured to have been given this opportunity to serve our country and our people.”
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