China Unicom is deploying Gilat Satellite Networks' SkyAbis cellular backhaul solution to enhance GSM mobile connectivity in China's Xinjiang region. The deployment of Gilat's SkyAbis cellular backhaul solution enables China Unicom's expansion of GSM services to regions where such was not previously economically feasible. Remote areas of the Xinjiang region are now able to receive high-quality mobile voice and data services, similar to those offered in other developed regions in China. China Unicom initially deployed a Gilat VSAT network in 2005, to provide rural communications applications nationwide.

Gilat's SkyAbis is a prepackaged solution for cellular backhaul, based on the Gilat SkyEdge and SkyEdge II multi-service platforms. The solution enables operators to deploy hybrid networks that extend the reach of their terrestrial and cellular infrastructure to remote communities. SkyAbis features traffic optimization and dynamic bandwidth allocation for GSM, CDMA 2000, and UMTS backhaul, with much higher space-segment efficiencies when compared to SCPC. Gilat's SkyEdge and SkyEdge II platforms can be deployed quickly in harsh terrain and perform well in severe weather conditions, these being important attributes required for viable operation in many remote Chinese villages where the mountainous terrain and cold weather make it difficult to implement a communications infrastructure.