MUMBAI: Satellite services provider O3b Networks has been recognized as "Satellite Operator of the Year" for 2015 at the Via Satellite Excellence Awards during Satellite 2016.

"@O3bSatellites was recognized as "Satellite Operator of the Year" during #SatShow", a short message said.

The Via Satellite Excellence Awards recognize innovative companies, technologies, campaigns, and people who shape the success of the global satellite industry.

O3b Networks has dramatically broadened the satellite market, providing modern high-performance connectivity to areas that had previously thought such service was only possible with terrestrial fibre. To date, the company has 12 satellites in orbit that provide services to more than 40 customers in 31 countries. Recently, O3b ordered eight more satellites to support growing demand.

The ultra-low latency, high throughput network facilitated by O3b's Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellite constellation provides connectivity to Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to expand 3G and 4G/LTE services, enables Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to provide broadband internet to subscribers in remote locations, brings high-speed mobile and data connections to ships at sea, and allows Oil and Gas companies to reduce costs and improve efficiencies on deep water installations.

"Today, access to the internet is fundamentally important, and we are proud to support our customers in providing the core connectivity that is driving social and economic development around the globe," said O3b Networks CEO Steve Collar.

"As a company, O3b has been fiercely dedicated to providing the best solutions for reliable connectivity in areas of the world that are beyond the reach of fiber. We are honored to be named Operator of the Year, and thank Via Satellite for this distinction."