Stratos Global Corporation, a global communications services and solutions provider, Thursday announced that Rowan Companies has chosen Stratos to provide a StratosITek IP-optimized VSAT (very small aperture terminal) communications network solution to deliver voice and high-speed data connectivity for 15 land-based oil and gas drilling rigs throughout Texas and Louisiana.
The recently implemented land-based network is in addition to the existing satellite-based solution from Stratos that provides reliable, full- service voice, Internet and secure intranet connectivity for Rowan’s entire fleet of 23 offshore oil and gas jack-up rigs operating in the Gulf of Mexico.
Both the offshore satellite-based Frame Relay network solution and the land-based StratosITek broadband IP satellite network are linked with Rowan’s Houston headquarters via a dedicated terrestrial circuit from Stratos’ Louisiana hub facility.
On-site personnel use the Stratos networks for toll- quality voice communications featuring local area codes and audio conferencing, as well as high-speed Internet access and secure connectivity to Rowan’s corporate intranet.
Rowan is also able to use Stratos’ high-speed data connectivity to run its IP-based maintenance software application, which automates the monitoring of onshore and offshore rig operations.
Unlike the cellular solutions previously utilized for Rowan’s offshore rigs, Stratos’ satellite-based solution provides ubiquitous coverage throughout the Gulf of Mexico with no dead spots. Satellite also provides higher bandwidth, both offshore and onshore.
And, the StratosITek IP-optimized VSAT solution provides a cost-effective alternative to standard terrestrial services for remote locations on land.
“For over three years, Stratos’ satellite-based Frame Relay solution has provided reliable voice and data connectivity for Rowan’s entire fleet of offshore rigs throughout the Gulf of Mexico,” said Jim Parm, Stratos’ president and chief executive officer.
“Now, with StratosITek, Rowan has a cost-effective option for bringing that same level of dependable service and support to its land-based rigs using a proven partner that truly understands Rowan’s business communications needs.”
