UAE-based satellite operator Yahsat has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with existing partner, IEC Telecom Group (IEC Telecom) to identify new opportunities in Africa. The agreement comes ahead of Yahsat taking delivery of its third satellite, Al Yah 3.

In January 2015 Yahsat completed its Preliminary Design Review (PDR) of the Al Yah 3 satellite, saying at the time that this offering would provide 600 million users with broadband services.

According to the operator, the launch of Al Yah 3 in Q1 of 2017 will see the entry of the company's satellite broadband product, YahClick, into 18 new African markets and expand its presence to cover 60% of the continent's population.

David Murphy, Yahsat's Chief Commercial Officer, said: "We are pleased to be in discussions with IEC Telecom on developing our current relationship and strengthening our presence in Africa. We will look at potential ways to build on our long and valued history with IEC Telecom, which dates back to the pre-launch of our second satellite, Y1B in 2012. We look forward to sharing the same success we have garnered across our existing African countries."

Murphy added: "With investment, trade and industry set to continue to grow in Africa, having access to the internet and the potential for reliable, broadband connectivity via satellite is high. Building on our existing partnership would ensure YahClick delivers on its promise to have an unmatched service area and provides constant connectivity to aid the socio-economic development of the region."

Mobile and fixed satellite communications services provider IEC Telecom will explore ways to offer YahClick broadband products, services and value-added solutions to support the satellite operator's increased coverage across Africa.

"The possibility to add 18 additional markets, which Al Yah 3 will cover, would enhance and strengthen the IEC Telecom Group portfolio in the professional Ka-band VSAT marketplace," said Erwan Emilian, IEC Telecom Group's CEO.