ITU deploys 100 satellite terminals in China to restore communication links

Telecomworldwire, May 23, 2008

TELECOMWORLDWIRE-23 May 2008-ITU deploys 100 satellite terminals in China to restore communication links(C)1994-2008 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD http://www.m2.com

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a United Nations agency for information and communication technology issues, has deployed 100 satellite terminals to help restore communication links in the aftermath of the earthquake that struck central China on 12 May 2008.

The restoration of communication links has reportedly helped designated government officials and other humanitarian agencies to more efficiently coordinate relief operations. The mobile satellite terminals are easily transported by road and air to be used both by humanitarian workers and the victims of the disaster.

The hand-held Thuraya satellite phones use both satellite and GSM networks and provide GPS coordinates to aid relief and rescue operations.

The terminals were contributed by Thuraya, a provider of satellite-based mobile phone services, and transported by FedEx Switzerland free of charge. ITU will bear all other costs related to the deployment. No other financial details were disclosed.

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