Thuraya, air force in satellite accord

The MoU, which was signed yesterday at the Dubai Air Show, covers the provision of satellite-based voice, data and GPRS communications for the military fleet of the UAE Air Force across the entire coverage area of Thuraya satellite system.

The project involves installation of Thuraya satellite units on a large fleet comprising fighter jets, military helicopters and surveillance planes.

The MoU was signed by Major-General Khalid Al Bu Ainnain, Commander of Air Force and Air Defence, and Yousuf Al Sayed, Thuraya CEO.

Maj-Gen. Al Bu Ainnain said that the move will help support the various types of Air Force jets to perform the national defence functions.

Al Sayed said that Thuraya has advanced satellite systems with versatile capabilities that meet the needs of several key sectors.

The new project is expected to open new commercial venues for the company not only within the UAE, but also within Thuraya's vast coverage area through ongoing modernisation programmes of military communication systems.