Dubai, UAE, August 11, 2016:  Panasonic Avionics (Panasonic) and Yahsat today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore new ways to offer a broadband connectivity solution serving several mobility markets in the Middle East within the next three to five years.

In addition, while final terms are still being negotiated, the MOU allows both parties to further investigate the launch of a Yahsat satellite constellation that would serve Panasonic’s general mobility needs in aviation, maritime and terrestrial transportation, and also give Yahsat the ability to use Panasonic communication related technologies and services where practical.

Moving forward, Yahsat and Panasonic will assess the various technical requirements for such an offering. The companies will explore a wide range of factors including the type of frequency to be used, the coverage and capacity needed to serve flight routes in this region, the type of antenna and radome to be used, and the certification requirements of such a solution.

Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, Chief Executive Officer of Yahsat said, 'We are delighted to be working with global brand and market leader, Panasonic, to enable high-speed inflight connectivity, and we look forward to jointly setting new global benchmarks.  Building on our substantial broadband satellite experience in our markets in the Middle East & Africa, and leveraging our experience in delivering advanced airborne solutions for our customers, this represents another significant milestone for Yahsat, which prides itself on bringing pioneering solutions to our region, and beyond.  Furthermore, with these technological advancements, we move a step closer to the UAE’s Networked Readiness Index Vision by 2021 and position Yahsat at the forefront of one of the most coveted segments of satellite connectivity.'

Paul Margis, President and Chief Executive Officer for Panasonic Avionics said: “This is a unique opportunity for Panasonic and Yahsat to define a new state-of-the-art in satellite communications for routes across the Middle East. We believe that leveraging our combined vision for connectivity in the Middle East region will result in a truly unique experience for passengers in a wide range of vertical markets. We look forward to working with Yahsat to deliver a solution that keeps travellers entertained and productive everywhere they travel.”