Vietnamese military-run operator VNPT has launched mobile satellite services via subsidiary VinaPhone.
The operator has signed an agreement with Thuraya to expand its coverage to 100% of Vietnam's territory - as well as two thirds of the world - by utilizing the Thuraya network.
Thuraya will provide its land and maritime handsets for the services, which will allow postpaid customers to make voice calls send SMS and use GPS.
Services will be offered for consumers and government agencies as well as enterprise customers, particularly those in the mining, fishey, transport, construction and tourism industries.
In the initial launch phase VNPT will introduce Thuraya's XT-Lite satellite handsets and the SF2500 maritime communication system. The latter product supports voice capabilities, crew calling, GPS tracking, geo-fencing and SMS services..
“The launch of mobile satellite services confirms our dedication to the primary mission of VNPT, consolidating technology to serve the needs of society,” a VNPT representative commented.
“The mobile satellite service marks a significant step for the VNPT VinaPhone mobile network, allowing it to cover all of Vietnam, thereby eliminating communication black spots.”
VNPT's Vinaphone was the first mobile network to cover all provinces and cities across Vietnam in 1999, and to cover all districts in 2006.