The installation is expected to be completed by April 2005, at which time Stratos will be the primary provider for GlobalSantaFe's remote communications requirements. The three-year contract, with an estimated value of US$9 million, provides integrated solutions for worldwide land-based and maritime locations.

StratosITek is based on advanced two-way VSAT (very small aperture terminal) satellite technology developed by iDirect Technologies. The IP- based StratosITek system supports data throughput speeds up to 4 Mbps from the remote site, and up to 9 Mbps from the hub to the remote site.

Each remote terminal has a built-in router to support a full range of data and voice applications and devices, including voice-over-IP, fax, e-mail, Internet and intranet access, file transfer and video conferencing.

Additionally, the technology features built-in TCP acceleration, DNS caching and QoS prioritization for improved performance versus previous- generation VSAT systems.

StratosITek also uses advanced encryption technology and scalable bandwidth management to segregate user sub-networks, providing inherently superior security for critical and sensitive applications.

"With this new technology, we can now monitor remote operations on a real- time basis from any location, enabling us to improve operational efficiency and drilling productivity," said Steve Bilsing, regional vice president, operations, GlobalSantaFe.

"The iDirect technology that powers StratosITek was developed from the ground up to work with the IP-based applications and systems that power business communications today," said John Kealey, president and chief executive officer, iDirect.

"iDirect's technology, combined with Stratos' established reputation for outstanding global service and support, makes StratosITek an ideal solution for companies such as GlobalSantaFe that require broadband connectivity in remote areas where terrestrial service is lacking."

"As one of the leading global providers of remote communications' solutions to the oil and gas industry, Stratos is uniquely qualified to serve the needs of wide-spread organizations like GlobalSantaFe," said Mark Slaughter, president of Stratos' broadband division.

"Stratos is proud to be providing this remote communications system for GlobalSantaFe and, together with our technology partner, iDirect, we look forward to providing GlobalSantaFe with the superior service and support it requires."

Related Links
iDirect Technologies
GlobalSantaFe
Stratos
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