[SatNews] VT iDirect (‘iDirect’), a leader in satellite-based IP communications technology, has been awarded a contract valued at approximately US$60m to by Inmarsat (LSE:ISAT) to provide the Ground Network Infrastructure and Core Module technology for integration into the satellite terminals for Inmarsat’s forthcoming Global Xpress service.

iDirect will design, develop, manufacture, test and commission the Global Xpress Ground Network Infrastructure, building upon its global expertise in the VSAT network technology arena. To facilitate the delivery of the Global Xpress promise of global broadband connectivity, iDirect will leverage its core platform capabilities and its advancements in mobility, quality of service and network management. As part of the agreement, iDirect will supply a Global Xpress compatible Core Module for integration into maritime satellite terminals. iDirect also plans to produce a range of Global Xpress Core Modules specifically designed for the aeronautical and government sectors. The network and Core Modules iDirect delivers will be fully consistent with the Global Xpress objective, which is to deliver up to 50Mbps downlink speeds to 60cm aperture terminals.