New contract marks Hermes' first foray into Ka-band satellite, powered by Avanti's HYLAS 2

Hermes Datacomms, a leading global provider of managed networks for the upstream oil, gas and mining sectors, has bought services from Avanti Communications to boost its satellite capability in Iraq.

Hermes will initially deploy the capacity within its remote fields. This will be followed by an intensive programme to up-weight connectivity for enterprise customers in the Middle East. Avanti will provide secure Ka-band services to Hermes via its HYLAS 2 satellite.

Hermes Datacomms said: "As part of our continuous expansion and work within the oil & gas industry in Iraq, Hermes needs a Ka-band service provider that can serve its remote fields, its office in Iraq and for out of band management in its larger sites. Avanti has also provided us with the training, monitoring and control capability to pass on this service to our clients. We look forward to growing alternative service options for our clients in the region."

Matthew O'Connor, Chief Operating Officer at Avanti said: "As leaders in the provision of communication networks in the global oil and gas sector, Hermes requires high-quality, secure coverage over some of the remotest parts of the world. Powered by our HYLAS 2 satellite, the contract will extend Hermes' connectivity in Iraq. We look forward to working together in partnership."

Hermes provides satellite and fibre links to remote and challenging locations onshore and offshore. Solutions include international connections, managed networks and oilfield infrastructure.

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About Hermes Datacomms Ltd

• Hermes Datacommunications Ltd specializes in providing Wide Area Communications to the upstream oil and gas industry worldwide.
• With over 20 years of experience, service in 54 countries, representing 92% of the world's oil and gas reserves and an extensive portfolio of prestigious customers, Hermes has proven itself as a leader in the telecommunications industry.
• Hermes Datacomms provides satellite and fibre links to some of the most remote and challenging locations, both onshore and offshore.
• Solutions are tailored specifically to the oil and gas industry and include international connections, managed networks and oilfield infrastructure.
• Hermes Datacomms is listed in The Sunday Times Tech Track 100 2011 as one of Britain's 100 private tech companies with the fastest-growing sales over the latest 3 years.
• For more information, call +44 1743 235 555 or visit www.hermes.uk.com

About Avanti

• Avanti is a carriers' carrier, selling wholesale data telecoms to service providers which use them to create networks for enterprise, carrier, government and consumer users.
• Avanti's network consists of:- two high throughput satellites in orbit, called HYLAS 1 and HYLAS 2; a multiband satellite called Artemis plus a fourth satellite  in construction called HYLAS 3 and an international fibre network connecting data centres in several countries.  
• Avanti has GEO satellite network spectrum filings in the ITU Master Register for Ka band at 33.5°W and 31.0° East and for Ka, Ku, S and L-band at 21.5° East.  
• A vanti serves customers in Europe, Middle East and Africa.
• Visit: www.avantiplc.com