GILT 20-F DEF-14A Report Dec. 31, 2016 | Alphaminr
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD
ALPHAMINR

GILT 20-F Report ended Dec. 31, 2016

Balance Sheet
Cash Flow
Income Statement
20-F 1 zk1719725.htm 20-F
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 20-F
☐ REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
or
☒ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016
or
☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from __________ to __________
or
☐ SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Date of event requiring this shell company report _________
Commission file number: 0-21218
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
ISRAEL
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
Gilat House, 21 Yegia Kapayim Street, Kiryat Arye, Petah Tikva, 4913020 Israel
(Address of principal executive offices)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class
Ordinary Shares, NIS 0.20 nominal value
Name of each exchange on which registered
NASDAQ Global Select Market
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant of Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act: None
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock at the close of the period covered by the annual report:
54,592,667 Ordinary Shares, NIS 0.20 nominal value per share
(as of December 31, 2016)
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.
Yes ☐          No ☒
If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Yes ☐          No ☒
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes ☒ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer ☐
Accelerated filer ☒
Non-accelerated filer ☐

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:
☒
U.S. GAAP
☐
International Financial Reporting Standards as
issued by the International Accounting Standards Board
☐
Other
If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.

Item 17 ☐         Item 18 ☐
If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes ☐          No ☒

This report on Form 20-F is being incorporated by reference into our Registration Statements on Form S-8 (Registration Nos. 333-180552, 333-187021, 333-204867 and 333-210820 ).

ii

INTRODUCTION

We are a leading global provider of satellite-based broadband communications. We design and manufacture ground segment equipment and provide comprehensive solutions and end-to-end services, powered by our innovative technology. Our portfolio comprises a cloud- based satellite network platform, Very Small Aperture Terminals (VSATs), amplifiers, high-speed modems, high performance on-the-move antennas and high efficiency, high power Solid State Amplifiers (SSPAs) and Block Upconverters (BUCs). Our comprehensive solutions support multiple applications with a full portfolio of products to address key applications including broadband access, cellular backhaul, enterprise, in-flight connectivity, maritime, trains, defense and public safety, all while meeting the most stringent service level requirements. We also provide connectivity services, Internet access and telephony to enterprise, government and residential customers in Peru and Colombia over our own networks, which are built using our equipment and also over networks which we install mainly based on Build, Operate and Transfer, or BOT, contracts. Additionally, we build telecommunication infrastructure typically using fiber-optic and wireless technologies for broadband connectivity. We have a large installed base, having sold over 1.5 million satellite terminals spanning approximately 90 countries and currently have over 500 active networks.

In addition to developing and marketing ground-based satellite communications equipment, we provide managed network and services through terrestrial and satellite networks. We have proven experience in delivering complex projects and services worldwide. We offer complete turnkey integrated solutions including:
•
fully managed satellite communications services;
•
network planning and optimization;
•
provision of satellite capacity;
•
remote network operation;
•
call center support;
•
hub and field operations; and
•
construction and installation of communication networks, typically on a BOT, contract basis.
We have 20 sales and support offices worldwide, three Network Operation Centers,, or NOCs, and five R&D centers. Our products are sold to communication service providers and operators that use satellite communications to serve enterprise, government and residential users, to mobile network operators and to system integrators that use our technology. Our solutions and services are also sold to defense and homeland security organizations. In addition, we provide services directly to end-users in various market segments, including in certain countries in Latin America and also provide managed network services, such as in Australia, over a satellite network owned by a third party.
We operate in three business segments, comprised of our Commercial, Mobility and Services divisions:
• Commercial Division – provides advanced fixed satellite networks, satellite communication systems, small cell solutions and associated professional services and comprehensive turnkey solutions. Our customers are service providers, satellite operators, mobile network operators, or MNOs, telecommunication companies, or Telcos, and large enterprises worldwide. We focus on high throughput satellites, or HTS, opportunities worldwide and are driving meaningful partnerships with satellite operators to leverage our technology and breadth of services to deploy and operate the ground segment.
• Mobility Division – provides advanced, satellite communication on the move systems, including airborne, maritime and ground-mobile satellite systems and solutions.  Our customers are service providers, system integrators, defense and homeland security organizations, as well as other commercial entities worldwide. The division provides solutions on land, sea and air, while placing major focus on the high-growth market of commercial In-Flight Connectivity, or IFC, with its unique leading technology. The division’s portfolio comprises high-speed modems, high performance on-the-move antennas and high efficiency, high power Solid State Amplifiers (SSPAs) and Block Upconverters (BUCs).
iii
• Services Division – provides managed network and services for rural broadband access via our subsidiaries in Peru and Colombia. Our connectivity solutions have been implemented in large and national scale projects. Our terrestrial and satellite networks provide Internet and telephony services to thousands of rural communities and schools. Our turnkey solutions start with supplying network infrastructure, continue through ensuring high-quality, reliable connectivity and include full network support and maintenance, as well as support for applications that run on the installed network.
Our ordinary shares are traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “GILT” and on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, or the TASE. As used in this annual report, the terms “we”, “us”, “Gilat” and “our” mean Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. and its subsidiaries, unless otherwise indicated.
The marks “Gilat®”, “SkyEdge®,” ”Wavestream®”, “AeroStream™”,  “Raysat®”, “SatTrooper TM” , “SatRanger TM ” and “Spatial AdvantEdge™” and other marks appearing in this annual report on Form 20-F marked with “® “ or “™” are trademarks of our company and its subsidiaries.  Other trademarks appearing in this Annual Report on Form 20-F are owned by their respective holders.
This Annual Report on Form 20-F contains various “ forward‑looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and within the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Such forward-looking statements reflect our current view with respect to future events and, financial results of operations. Forward-looking statements usually include the verbs, “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects,” “understands” and other verbs suggesting uncertainty.  We remind readers that forward-looking statements are merely predictions and therefore inherently subject to uncertainties and other factors and involve known and unknown risks that could cause the actual` results, performance, levels of activity, or our achievements, or industry results to be materially different from any future results, performance, levels of activity, or our achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.  Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward‑looking statements which speak only as of the date hereof.  We undertake no obligation to publicly release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.  We have attempted to identify additional significant uncertainties and other factors affecting forward-looking statements in the Risk Factors section which appears in Item 3D: “Key Information–Risk Factors”.

Our consolidated financial statements appearing in this annual report are prepared in U.S. dollars and in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or U.S. GAAP. All references in this annual report to “dollars” or “$” are to U.S. dollars and all references in this annual report to “NIS” are to New Israeli Shekels. The representative exchange rate between the NIS and the dollar as published by the Bank of Israel on December 31, 2016 was NIS 3.845 per $1.00.
Statements made in this Annual Report concerning the contents of any contract, agreement or other document are summaries of such contracts, agreements or documents and are not complete descriptions of all of their terms. If we filed any of these documents as an exhibit to this Annual Report or to any registration statement or annual report that we previously filed, you may read the document itself for a complete description of its terms.
iv

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1
1
1
1
A.
Selected Consolidated Financial Data
1
B.
Capitalization and Indebtedness
2
C.
Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds
2
D.
Risk Factors
2
23
A.
History and Development of the Company
23
B.
Business Overview
24
C.
Organizational Structure
40
D.
Property, Plants and Equipment
40
40
40
A.
Operating Results
40
B.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
58
C.
Research and Development
60
D.
Trend Information
61
E.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
61
F.
Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations
62
63
A.
Directors and Senior Management
63
B.
Compensation of Directors and Officers
66
C.
Board Practices
69
D.
Employees
77
E.
Share Ownership
78
79
A.
Major Shareholders
79
B.
Related Party Transactions
81
C.
Interests of Experts and Counsel
81
81
83
A.
Offer and Listing Details
83
B.
Plan of Distribution
83
C.
Markets
84
D.
Selling Shareholders
84
E.
Dilution
84
F.
Expense of the Issue
84
84
A.
Share Capital
84
B.
Memorandum and Articles of Association
84
C.
Material Contracts
89
D.
Exchange Controls
89
E.
Taxation
89
F.
Dividend and Paying Agents
97
G.
Statement by Experts
97
H.
Documents on Display
97
I.
Subsidiary Information
97
v
98
99
99
99
99
99
100
100
100
101
101
101
ITEM 16F: CHANGES IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT 101
102
102
102
102
102
102
105

vi
PART I
ITEM 1:          IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISORS

Not Applicable.

ITEM 2:          OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE

Not Applicable.

ITEM 3:          KEY INFORMATION

A.
Selected Consolidated Financial Data
The selected consolidated statement of operations data set forth below for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, and the selected consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements that are included elsewhere in this Annual Report. These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The selected consolidated statement of operations data set forth below for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 and the selected consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements that are not included in this Annual Report.

The selected consolidated financial data set forth below should be read in conjunction with and is qualified entirely by reference to Item 5: “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto included in Item 18 in this Annual Report on Form 20-F .
Statement of Operations Data for Year ended December 31,

2016
2015
2014
2013
2012
(U.S. dollars in thousands, except for share data)
Revenues:
Products
214,291
128,970
157,531
133,554
155,691
Services
65,260
68,573
77,602
101,312
115,875
Total
279,551
197,543
235,133
234,866
271,566
Cost of revenues:
Products
162,563
94,683
106,905
86,304
96,805
Services
41,498
48,635
44,593
68,906
76,832
Impairment of long lived assets
-
10,137
-
-
-
Total Cost of revenues
204,061
153,455
151,498
155,210
173,637
Gross profit
75,490
44,088
83,635
79,656
97,929
Operating expenses:
Research and development, net
24,853
22,412
25,158
27,900
29,241
Selling and marketing
23,411
24,823
32,537
32,214
34,988
General and administrative
26,471
18,644
20,903
23,071
23,618
Restructuring costs
-
1,508
-
564
315
Goodwill impairment
-
20,402
-
-
31,879
Total Operating expenses
74,735
87,789
78,598
83,749
120,041
Operating income (loss)
755
(43,701
)
5,037
(4,093
)
(22,112
)
Financial expenses, net
(4,843
)
(7,243
)
(3,837
)
(6,239
)
(3,432
)
Other income
-
-
-
-
2,729
Income (loss) before taxes on income
(4,088
)
(50,944
)
1,200
(10,332
)
(22,815
)
Taxes on income (tax benefit)
1,252
1,190
1,901
(755
)
(1,893
)
Loss from continuing operations
(5,340
)
(52,134
)
(701
)
(9,577
)
(20,922
)
Loss from discontinued operations (1)
-
(200
)
(795
)
(8,320
)
(2,270
)
Loss
(5,340
)
(52,334
)
(1,496
)
(17,897
)
(23,192
)
Loss per share (basic and diluted) from continuing operations (3)
(0.10
)
(1.16
)
(0.02
)
(0.22
)
(0.49
)
Loss per share (basic and diluted) from discontinued operations (3)
-
(0.00
)
(0.02
)
(0.19
)
(0.05
)
Loss per share (basic and diluted) (3)
(0.10
)
(1.16
)
(0.04
)
(0.41
)
(0.54
)
________
(1)
In December 2013, we sold Spacenet Inc., a provider of managed network communications services utilizing satellite wireline and wireless networks and associated technology, for approximately $16 million, subject to certain post-closing adjustments and expenses.
(2)
Includes the assets and liabilities, short term and long term, related to the discontinued operations of Spacenet.
(3)
The loss per share for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was adjusted, following the rights offering that the Company concluded in March 2016.

B.
Capitalization and Indebtedness
Not applicable.

C.
Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds
Not applicable

D.
Risk Factors
Investing in our ordinary shares involves a high degree of risk and uncertainty.  You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described below before investing in our ordinary shares.  If any of the following risks actually occurs, our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations could be materially harmed.  In that case, the value of our ordinary shares could decline substantially, and you could lose all or part of your investment.

Risks Relating to Our Business

A significant portion of our revenue comes from one customer.
We depend on one large, long-term customer for a significant portion of our revenues. For the year ended December 31, 2016, the FITEL Regional Projects accounted for approximately 34% of our revenue and 11% of our revenues in 2015. As of December 31, 2016, we have approximately $41.7 million in “un-billed accounts receivable” related to the FITEL Regional Projects. The FITEL Regional Projects that were awarded to us in 2015 are expected to generate $393 million in revenues over approximately 13 years.  If FITEL were to terminate the existing contracts with us or substantially reduce the services they purchase from us, our revenues and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.  In addition, negative developments in the political or business climate of Peru or of FITEL could result in significantly decreased revenue from sales and the provision of services, which could seriously harm our business, operating results and financial condition.

We have incurred major losses in past years and may not operate profitably in the future.

We reported an operating profit of $0.8 million and a loss from continuing operations of $5.3 million in the year ended December 31, 2016, an operating loss of $43.7 million and a loss from continuing operations of $52.1 million in the year ended December 31, 2015, and an operating profit of $5.0 million and a loss from continuing operations of $0.7 million in the year ended December 31, 2014.  We also incurred major losses in prior years and as of December 31, 2016 have an accumulated deficit of $709.9 million. We cannot assure you that we can operate profitably in the future. If we do not achieve profitable operations, our share price will decline and the viability of our company will be in question.

2
Our available cash balance may decrease in the future if we cannot generate cash from operations.

Our cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2016 were $40.1 million compared to $18.4 million as of December 31, 2015. Our positive cash flow from operating activities was approximately $10.8 million in the year ended December 31, 2016, compared to negative cash flow from operating activities of $14.8 million and $16.2 million in the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. If we do not generate sufficient cash from operations in the future, including from our large-scale projects, our cash balance will decline and the unavailability of cash could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition.

The delivery of our large-scale projects requires us to invest significant funds in order to obtain bank guarantees and may require us to incur significant expenses before we receive full payment from our customers. This applies mainly to the FITEL Regional Projects awarded to us in 2015, through agreements signed with our subsidiary, Gilat Networks Peru S.A., or GNP, by the Peruvian government (through FITEL), which are expected to generate in the aggregate $393 million in revenues over approximately 13 years, following the extension of the original term of the agreements. We have used the advance payment received from FITEL as well as bank loans and internal cash resources in order to finance the FITEL Regional Projects. We have used surety bonds and our internal resources in order to provide the required bank guarantees for the FITEL Regional Projects.  If we fail to obtain the necessary funding or if we fail to obtain such funds on favorable terms, we will not be able to meet our commitments and our cash flow and operational results may be adversely affected.

If the commercial satellite communications markets fail to grow, our business could be materially harmed.

A number of the commercial markets for our products and services in the satellite communications area, including high throughput satellite and commercial on the move products, have emerged in recent years. Because these markets are relatively new, it is difficult to predict the rate at which these markets will grow, if at all. If the markets for commercial satellite communications products fail to grow, our business could be materially harmed. Conversely, growth in these markets could result in satellite capacity limitations which in turn could materially harm our business and impair the value of our shares. Specifically, we derive most of our revenues from sales of satellite based communications networks and related equipment and provision of services related to these networks and products. A significant decline in this market or the replacement of VSAT and other satellite based technologies by an alternative technology could materially harm our business and impair the value of our shares.

Because we compete for large‑scale contracts in competitive bidding processes, losing a small number of bids or a decrease in the revenues generated from our large-scale projects could have a significant adverse impact on our operating results.

A significant portion of our revenues is derived from large -scale contracts that we are awarded from time to time in competitive bidding processes. These large‑scale contracts sometimes involve the installation of thousands of VSATs or massive fiber-optic transport and access networks . The number of major bids for these large‑scale contracts for satellite-based networks and massive telecommunications infrastructure projects in any given year is limited and the competition is intense. Losing or defaulting on a relatively small number of bids each year could have a significant adverse impact on our operating results.

3
Many of our large-scale contracts are with governments or large governmental agencies in Latin America and any volatility in the political or economic situation or any unexpected unilateral termination or suspension of payments could have a significant adverse impact on our business.
In March and December 2015, the Peruvian government awarded us the Regional FITEL Projects under four separate bids for the construction of networks, operation of the networks for a defined period and their transfer to the government. These awards are expected to generate revenues of $393 million over a period of approximately 13 years. In December 2013, we were awarded a project through an agreement signed with our subsidiary, Gilat Colombia S.A. E.S.P., or Gilat Colombia, which is expected to generate revenues of 189 billion Colombian Pesos (approximately $63 million, based on the representative rate of exchange published as of December 31, 2016) over the project period, which is expected to end in the first quarter of 2018. In December 2013, our subsidiary, Gilat to Home Peru, or GTH Peru, won a $30 million contract from FITEL for construction of a network, its operation over 11 years and other related services, which contract was expanded by $6 million. Agreements with the governments in these countries typically include unilateral early termination clauses and involve other risks such as the imposition of new government regulations and taxation that could pose additional financial burdens on us. Changes in the political or economic situation in these countries can result in the early termination of our business there. Any termination of our business in any of the aforementioned countries could have a significant adverse impact on our business. See Item 4.B. – “Information on the Company – Business Overview – Services Division – overview”.
In June 2016, our customer, Oi SA, filed for judicial reorganization in a bankruptcy protection petition in Brazil. Collection of any amounts due to us that were outstanding prior to the petition will be subject to approved creditor arrangements.
Our failure to deliver upon our large-scale projects in an economical manner or a delay in collection of payments due to us in connection with any such large-scale project could have a significant adverse impact on our operating results.
We have been awarded a number of large-scale projects by foreign governments, including the Peruvian FITEL Regional Projects in 2015.  While we have experience in the successful implementation of large-scale network infrastructure projects in rural areas, the FITEL Regional Projects are complex and require cooperation of certain third parties. A failure to deliver upon our projects in an economical manner within the project’s budget could result in losses and significantly adversely impact our operating results. For example, during the fourth quarter of 2015, we recorded impairment of long lived assets of $10.1 million related to our Kioscos Digitales project initiated by the Colombian Ministry of Information Technologies and Communications due to expected future losses from this project. Additionally, the delivery of our large-scale projects requires us to invest significant funds in order to obtain bank guarantees and requires us to incur significant expenses before we receive full payment from our customers. As of December 31, 2016, we have approximately $41.7 million in “un-billed accounts receivable” related to the FITEL Regional Projects. Due to delays in the performance of these projects, we have entered into agreements with FITEL for the extension of the projects’ schedules, thus delaying revenues from the projects.  Further, a failure to meet the project’s schedule or fulfill our obligations in a timely manner could result in payment of fines and impact our ability to receive and recognize the expected revenues in part or in full in a timely manner, which could have a significant adverse impact on our operating results.

Actual results could differ from the estimates and assumptions that we use to prepare our financial statements.
In order to prepare our financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”), our management is required to make estimates and assumptions, as of the date of the financial statements, which affect the reported values of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses, and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. Areas that require significant estimates by our management include contract costs and profits, application of percentage-of-completion accounting, provisions for uncollectible receivables and customer claims, impairment of long-term assets, goodwill impairment, valuation of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in connection with business combinations, accruals for estimated liabilities, including litigation and insurance reserves, and stock-based compensation. Our actual results could differ from, and could require adjustments to, those estimates.
In particular, we recognize revenues generated from the Regional FITEL Projects using the percentage-of-completion method. Under this method, estimated revenue is recognized by applying the percentage of completion of the contract for the period (based on the ratio of costs incurred to total estimated costs of the contract) to the total estimated revenue for the contract. As a result, revisions made to the estimates of revenues and profits are recorded in the period in which the conditions that require such revisions become known and can be estimated. Although we believe that our profit margins are fairly stated and that adequate provisions for losses for fixed-price contracts are recorded in the financial statements, as required under U.S. GAAP, we cannot assure you that our contract profit margins will not decrease or that any loss provisions will not increase materially in the future.
4
Tax authorities may disagree with our intercompany charges, cross-jurisdictional transfer pricing or other matters and assess additional taxes .

We are subject to income taxation in the United States, Israel and numerous other jurisdictions. Determining our provision for income taxes requires significant management judgment. In addition, our provision for income taxes could be adversely affected by many factors, including, among other things, changes to our operating structure, changes in the amounts of earnings in jurisdictions with different statutory tax rates, changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities and changes in tax laws. We are subject to ongoing tax examinations in various jurisdictions. Tax authorities may disagree with our intercompany charges, cross-jurisdictional transfer pricing or other matters and assess additional taxes. While we regularly evaluate the likely outcomes of these examinations to determine the adequacy of our provision for income taxes, there can be no assurance that the outcomes of such examinations will not have a material impact on our results of operations and cash flows. In addition, we may be audited in various jurisdictions, and such jurisdictions may assess additional taxes against us. Although we believe our tax estimates are reasonable, the final determination of any tax audits or litigation could be materially different from our historical tax provisions and accruals, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or cash flows in the period or periods for which a determination is made.

Our insurance coverage may not be sufficient for every aspect or risk related to our business.

Our business includes risks, only some of which are covered by our insurance. For example, in our satellite capacity agreements, we do not have a backup for satellite capacity, and we do not have indemnification or insurance in the event that our supplier’s satellite malfunctions or data is lost. Satellites utilize highly complex technology and operate in the harsh environment of space and therefore are subject to significant operational risks while in orbit. The risks include in-orbit equipment failures, malfunctions and other kinds of problems commonly referred to as anomalies. Satellite anomalies include, for example, circuit failures, transponder failures, solar array failures, telemetry transmitter failures, battery cell and other power system failures, satellite control system failures and propulsion system failures. Liabilities in connection with our products or in connection with our construction and deployment projects may be covered by insurance only to a limited extent or not covered at all. In addition, we are not covered by our insurance for acts of fraud or theft. Our business, financial condition and operating results could be materially adversely affected if we incur significant costs resulting from these exposures.

We operate in the highly competitive network communications industry and may be unsuccessful in competing effectively.

We operate in a highly competitive industry of network communications, both in the sales of our products and our services. As a result of the rapid technological changes that characterize our industry, we face intense worldwide competition to capitalize on new opportunities, to introduce new products and to obtain proprietary and standard technologies that are perceived by the market as being superior to those of our competitors.
Some of our competitors have greater financial resources, providing them with greater research and development and marketing capabilities. Our competitors may also be more experienced in obtaining regulatory approvals for their products and services and in marketing them. Our relative position in the network communications industry may place us at a disadvantage in responding to our competitors’ pricing strategies, technological advances and other initiatives. Our principal competitors in the supply of VSAT networks are Hughes Network Systems, LLC, or HNS, ViaSat Inc., or ViaSat, iDirect Technologies, or iDirect, and Newtec Cy N.V, or Newtec. Most of our competitors have developed or adopted different technology standards for their VSAT products.

Our low-profile in-motion antennas target a market that has not yet matured and we compete with products from competitors such as General Dynamics, Cobham, Orbit Communication Systems, Qest Quantum Electronic Systems GmbH, L-3 Communications Holdings, Inc., or L-3, Tecom Industries, Inc., or Tecom, and Thinkom Solutions.  Competitors in the defense sector include Comtech Xicom Technology, Inc., CPI Satcom, General Dynamics Satcom Technologies, Paradise Datacom and Mission Microwave Technologies.

5
In addition, ViaSat and HNS have launched their own satellites, which enable them to offer vertically integrated solutions to their customers, which may further change the competitive environment in which we operate and could have an adverse effect on our business.

In Peru and Colombia, where we primarily operate public rural telecom services (voice, data and Internet) and are engaged in construction of fiber-optic transport and access networks based on wireless systems, we typically encounter competition on government subsidized bids from various service providers, system integrators and consortiums. Some of these competitors offer solutions based on VSAT technology and some on terrestrial technologies (typically, fiber-optic and wireless technologies). In addition, as competing technologies such as cellular telephones and fiber-optic in Peru and Colombia become available in rural areas where not previously available, our business could be adversely affected. We may not be able to compete successfully against current or future competitors. Such competition may adversely affect our future revenues and, consequently, our business, operating results and financial condition.

Our lengthy sales cycles could harm our results of operations if forecasted sales are delayed or do not occur.

The length of time between the date of initial contact with a potential customer or sponsor and the execution of a contract with the potential customer or sponsor may be lengthy and vary significantly depending on the nature of the arrangement. During any given sales cycle, we may expend substantial funds and management resources and not obtain significant revenue, resulting in a negative impact on our operating results. In some cases, we have seen longer sales cycles in all of the regions in which we do business. In addition, we have seen projects delayed or even canceled, which would also have an adverse impact on our sales cycles. As a result, it may be difficult for us to accurately forecast sales due to the uncertainty around these projects and their award and starting periods.
We may need to make acquisitions or form strategic alliances or partnerships in order to remain competitive in our market, and such acquisitions, strategic alliances or partnerships could be difficult to integrate, disrupt our business and dilute shareholder value.

We generally seek to acquire businesses that enhance our capabilities and add new technologies, products, services and customers to our existing businesses. We may not be able to continue to identify acquisition candidates on commercially reasonable terms or at all. If we make additional business acquisitions, we might not realize the benefits anticipated from these acquisitions, including sales growth, cost synergies and improving margins. Furthermore, we might not be able to obtain additional financing for business acquisitions, since such additional financing could be restricted or limited by the terms of our debt agreements or due to unfavorable capital market conditions.

Further, once integrated, acquisitions may not achieve comparable levels of revenues, profitability or productivity as our existing business or otherwise perform as expected. The occurrence of any of these events could harm our business, financial condition or results of operations.

In 2010, we completed the acquisition of RaySat Antenna Systems, or RAS, a leading provider of on-the-move antenna solutions, of RaySat BG, a Bulgarian research and development center, and of Wavestream, a provider of SSPAs and BUCs. We may not be able to successfully integrate the businesses or exploit the solutions that we acquired or will acquire in the future. Further, we may not be able to achieve our growth targets for the acquired businesses, which could result in our incurring impairment charges. If our projection for growth in the airborne business does not materialize and we fail to obtain other business in our Mobility Division, we would likely record an impairment of goodwill . In 2015, we performed an analysis of implied carrying value of our Wavestream subsidiary in accordance with ASC 350 and recorded goodwill impairment losses of approximately $20.4 million.   In 2016, no impairment losses were identified.

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The risks associated with acquisitions by us include the following, any of which could seriously harm our results of operations or the price of our shares:

·
issuance of equity securities as consideration for acquisitions that would dilute our current shareholders’ percentages of ownership;

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significant acquisition costs;

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decrease of our cash balance;

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the incurrence of debt and contingent liabilities;

·
difficulties in the assimilation and integration of operations, personnel, technologies, products and information systems of the acquired companies;

·
diversion of management’s attention from other business concerns;

·
contractual disputes;

·
risks of entering geographic and business markets in which we have no or only limited prior experience;

·
potential loss of key employees of acquired organizations;

·
the possibility that business cultures will not be compatible;

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the difficulty of incorporating acquired technology and rights into our products and services;

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unanticipated expenses related to integration of the acquired companies; and

·
difficulties in implementing and maintaining uniform standards, controls and policies.

Any of these events would likely result in a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows and financial position.

The continued decline in or a redirection of the U.S. defense budget could result in a material decrease in our sales, results of operations and cash flows.
Our contracts with and sales to systems integrators in connection with government contracts in the U.S. are subject to the congressional budget authorization and appropriations process. Congress appropriates funds for a given program on a fiscal year basis, even though contract periods of performance may extend over many years. Consequently, at the beginning of a major program, the contract is partially funded, and additional monies are normally committed to the contract by the procuring agency only as appropriations are made by Congress in future fiscal years. Department of Defense, or DoD, budgets are a function of factors beyond our control, including, but not limited to, changes in U.S. procurement policies, budget considerations, current and future economic conditions, presidential administration priorities, changing national security and defense requirements, geopolitical developments and actual fiscal year congressional appropriations for defense budgets. Any of these factors could result in a significant decline in, or redirection of, current and future DoD budgets and impact our future results of operations.

The impact of a legislation process known as sequestration (or mandated reductions) remains a significant risk. Part I of the U.S. Budget Control Act of 2011 provided for a reduction in planned defense budgets by at least $487 billion over a ten year period. A two-year budget agreement set forth in the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 lessened the across-the-board cuts of sequestration; however, sequestration continues to be in effect, including for the DoD . Sequestration has negatively affected some of the defense programs in which we participate and we may continue to be negatively impacted by the continuing effects of sequestration or other defense spending delays and cuts. It is possible that the U.S. government could reduce or further delay its spending on, or reprioritize its spending away from, other government programs and it remains difficult, if not impossible, to determine specific amounts that are or will be appropriated for many of the programs in which we participate. Future congressional appropriation and authorization of defense spending and the application of sequestration remain marked by significant debate and an uncertain schedule. The federal debt limit continues to be actively debated as plans for long-term national fiscal policy are discussed. The outcome of these debates could have a significant impact on defense spending broadly and programs we support in particular.

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The failure of Congress to approve future budgets and/or increase the United States’ debt ceiling on a timely basis could delay or result in the loss of contracts for the procurement of our products and services and we may be asked or required to continue to perform for some period of time on certain of our U.S. government contracts, even if the U.S. government is unable to make timely payments. Considerable uncertainty exists regarding how budget reductions will be applied and what challenges the reductions will present.
The continuing pressure on the DoD budget, along with delayed orders from other clients as well as other elements, were reflected in the reduction of Wavestream’s revenues and operational results in 2015 compared to the budget and prior years’ results. In 2015, we performed an analysis of Wavestream’s implied carrying value in accordance with ASC 350 and recorded goodwill impairment losses of approximately $20.4 million.  No impairment charges were identified in 2016 and 2014. See Item 5 – “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects– Operating Results”.
Concerns about increased deficit spending, along with continued economic challenges, continue to place pressure on the DoD budget and international customer budgets. These may result in reduced demand for our products, resulting in a reduction in our revenues, and an adverse effect on our business and results of operations, which could potentially trigger further goodwill impairment charges.  Uncertainties in governmental spending may also adversely affect our efforts to further penetrate the defense market with our defense-related products. Any of these events would likely result in a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Unfavorable national and global economic conditions could adversely affect our business, operating results and financial condition.
Worsening economic conditions, such as the continued European sovereign debt uncertainty, may result in diminished demand for our products and in decreased sales volumes.  Although global economic conditions have stabilized or improved since the 2008 financial crisis, many of the markets in which we operate have not fully recovered.  If the economies in the countries in which we operate continue to be uncertain or weaken further, the demand for our products and technology may decrease as a result of constraints on capital spending by our customers.  In addition, this could result in longer sales cycles and increased price competition for our products.  Any of these events would likely harm our business, operating results and financial condition.
In June 2016, a majority of voters in the United Kingdom elected to withdraw from the European Union in a national referendum (Brexit). The referendum was advisory, and the terms of any withdrawal are subject to a negotiation period that could continue for a few years after the government of the United Kingdom formally initiates a withdrawal process. Nevertheless, the referendum has created significant uncertainty about the future relationship between the United Kingdom and the European Union, and has given rise to calls for certain regions within the United Kingdom to preserve their place in the European Union by separating from the United Kingdom as well as for the governments of other EU member states to consider withdrawal.

In the United States, the new Trump Administration has called for substantial change to fiscal, tax and trade policies that may adversely affect our business. We cannot predict the impact, if any, of these changes to our business. However, it is possible that these changes could adversely affect our business.

These developments, or the perception that any of them could occur, could have a material adverse effect on global economic conditions and the stability of global financial markets, and could significantly reduce global market liquidity and restrict the ability of key market participants to operate in certain financial markets. Asset valuations, currency exchange rates and credit ratings may be especially subject to increased market volatility.

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If global economic and market conditions, or economic conditions in the United States, Europe or Asia or other key markets, remain uncertain or weaken further, our business, operating results and financial condition may be adversely affected.
If we are unable to competitively operate within the network communications market and respond to new technologies, our business could be adversely affected.
The network communications market, which our products and services target, is characterized by rapid technological changes, new product introductions and evolving industry standards. If we fail to stay abreast of significant technological changes, our existing products and technology could be rendered obsolete. Historically, we have endeavored to enhance the applications of our existing products to meet the technological changes and industry standards. Our success is dependent upon our ability to continue to develop new innovative products, applications and services and meet developing market needs.
To remain competitive in the network communications market, we must continue to be able to anticipate changes in technology, market demands and industry standards and to develop and introduce new products, applications and services, as well as enhancements to our existing products, applications and services. Competitors in satellite ground equipment market and low-profile antenna market are introducing new and improved products and our ability to remain competitive in this field will depend in part on our ability to advance our own technology. New products and technologies for power amplifiers, such as Gallium Nitride, or GaN, may compete with our current SSPA offerings and may reduce the market prices and success of our products. New communications networks that integrate satellites operating in low or medium earth orbit (LEO/MEO) may compete significantly with our current networks and may reduce the market prices and success of our products until such time as we adapt our technology to support LEO/MEO satellites. If we are unable to respond to technological advances on a cost-effective and timely basis, or if our new products or applications are not accepted by the market, our business, financial condition and operating results could be adversely affected.

A decrease in the selling prices of our products and services could materially harm our business.

The average selling prices of communications products historically decline over product life cycles. In particular, we expect the average selling prices of our products to decline as a result of competitive pricing pressures and customers who negotiate discounts based on large unit volumes.  A decrease in the selling prices of our products and services could have a material adverse effect on our business.

If we are unable to competitively operate within the HTS satellite environment, our business could be adversely affected.

In the U.S. market, some of our competitors have launched Ka-band satellites. These actions may affect our competitiveness due to the relative lower cost of Ka-band space segment per user as well as the increased integration of the VSAT technology in the satellite solution. Due to the current nature of the HTS solution where the initial investment in ground segment gateway equipment is relatively high, ground segment equipment effectively becomes tightly coupled to the specific satellite technology.  As such, there may be circumstances where it is difficult for competitors to compete with the incumbent VSAT vendor using the particular HTS satellite. If this occurs, the market dynamics may change to favor a VSAT vendor partnering with the satellite service provider, which may decrease the number of vendors who may be able to succeed. If we are unable to forge such a partnership our business could be adversely affected.

Although we have entered the HTS market with responsive HTS VSAT technology, we expect that our penetration into that market will be gradual and our success is not assured.  In addition, our competitors, who are producing large numbers of HTS VSATs, may benefit from cost advantages.  If we are unable to reduce our HTS VSAT costs sufficiently, we may not be competitive in the international market. We also expect that competition in this industry will continue to increase.

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If we lose existing contracts or orders for our products are not renewed, our ability to generate revenues will be harmed.

A significant part of our business in previous years, including in 2016, was generated from recurring customers and, in particular, approximately 34% of our revenues in 2016 were generated from one customer, FITEL. Accordingly , the termination or non-renewal of our contracts could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.  Some of our existing contracts could be terminated due to any of the following reasons, among others:

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dissatisfaction of our customers with our products and/or the services we provide or our inability to provide or install additional products or requested new applications on a timely basis;

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customers’ default on payments due;

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our failure to comply with financial covenants in our contracts; or

·
the cancellation of the underlying project by the sponsoring government body.

If we are not able to retain our present customer base and gain new customers, our revenues will decline significantly. In addition, if our service businesses in Peru and Colombia do not win new government related contracts, this could materially adversely affect our financial position.

If we fail to penetrate new markets and expand our business in markets other than the defense market in the U.S., our business in the U.S. will remain dependent on the defense market, a reduction of which could have a material adverse effect on our overall business .
A portion of our product revenues from North America are dependent on business from the defense market, being derived directly or indirectly through contractors and system integrators from sales to government agencies, mainly the DoD, pursuant to contracts awarded under defense-related programs. Government spending under such contracts may cease or may be reduced, which would cause a negative effect on our revenues, results of operations, cash flow and financial condition. We experienced a reduction in revenues from such customers in recent years and there is no assurance that there will not be a further reduction in the future. Although we have begun to move into the IFC commercial markets and cellular backhaul with Telcos, we may not be successful in our plans to penetrate these markets. These markets are relatively new and untried for our SSPA product line and will require additional expenditures for research and development and sales and marketing. In addition, the cellular backhaul market with Telcos and the commercial IFC market may fail to grow in accordance with our expectations. We may also not be able to develop new technologies for those markets on a timely basis. Barriers to entry into those markets or delays in our development programs could have a material adverse effect on our business and operating results.

Our failure to obtain or maintain authorizations under the U.S. export control and trade sanctions laws and regulations could have a material adverse effect on our business.

The export of some of our satellite communication products, related technical information and services is subject to U.S. State Department, Commerce Department and Treasury Department regulations, including International Traffic in Arms Regulations, or ITAR, and Export Administration Regulations, or EAR. Under the ITAR, our non U.S. employees, including employees of our headquarters in Israel are barred from accessing certain information of our U.S. subsidiaries, unless appropriate licenses are obtained.  In addition to the U.S. export control laws and regulations applicable to us, some of our subcontractors and vendors may also be subject to U.S. export control laws and regulations. These subcontractors and vendors may be forced to flow down requirements and restrictions imposed on products and services we purchase from them. If we do not maintain our existing authorizations or obtain necessary future authorizations under the export control laws and regulations of the U.S., including by entering into technical assistance agreements to disclose technical data or provide services to foreign persons, we may be unable to export technical information or equipment to non-U.S. persons and companies, including to our own non-U.S. employees, as may be required to fulfill contracts we may enter into. We may also be subjected to ITAR compliance audits in the future that may uncover improper or illegal activities that would subject us to material remediation costs, civil and criminal fines, penalties or an injunction.

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In addition, to participate in classified U.S. government programs, we have to obtain security clearances from the DoD, for one or more of our subsidiaries that want to participate. Such clearance may require us to enter into a proxy agreement or another similar arrangement with the U.S. government, which would limit our ability to control the operations of the subsidiary and which may impose substantial administrative requirements in order for us to comply. Further, if we materially violate the terms of any proxy agreement, the subsidiary holding the security clearances may be suspended or debarred from performing any government contracts, whether classified or unclassified. If we fail to maintain or obtain the necessary authorizations under the U.S. export control laws and regulations, we may not be able to realize our market focus and our business could be materially adversely affected.

We are dependent on contracts with governments around the world for a significant portion of our revenue. These contracts may expose us to additional business risks and compliance obligations.

We have focused on expanding our business to include contracts with or for various governments and governmental agencies around the world, including the Peruvian Government (through FITEL) and U.S. federal, state, and local government agencies through contractors or systems integrators. Such contracts account for a significant portion of our revenues. Our contracts with international governments generally contain unfavorable termination provisions. Governmental customers generally may unilaterally suspend us from receiving new contracts pending resolution of alleged violations of procurement laws or regulations and terminate existing contracts and audit our contract-related costs. If a termination right is exercised by a governmental customer, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Additionally, the business we generate from government contracts may be materially adversely affected if:
·
our reputation or relationship with government agencies is impaired;

·
we are suspended or otherwise prohibited from contracting with a domestic or foreign government or any significant law enforcement agency;

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levels of government expenditures and authorizations for law enforcement and security related programs decrease or shift to program in areas where we do not provide products and services;

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we are prevented from entering into new government contracts or extending existing government contracts based on violations or suspected violations of laws or regulations, including those related to procurement;

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we are not granted security clearances that are required to sell our products to domestic or foreign governments or such security clearances are deactivated;

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there is a change in government procurement procedures or conditions of remuneration; or

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there is a change in the political climate that adversely affects our existing or prospective relationships.
We depend on our main facility in Israel and are susceptible to any event that could adversely affect its condition as well as the condition of our facilities elsewhere.

A material portion of our laboratory capacity, our principal offices and principal research and development facilities are concentrated in a single location in Israel.  We also have significant facilities for research and development and manufacturing of components for our low profile antennas at a single location in Bulgaria as well as a research and development center in Moldova and offices, research and development, engineering and manufacturing facilities in California and in Singapore . Fire, natural disaster or any other cause of material disruption in our operation in any of these locations could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

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We are dependent upon a limited number of suppliers for key components that are incorporated in our products, including those used to build our hubs and VSATs, and may be significantly harmed if we are unable to obtain such components on favorable terms or on a timely basis. We are also dependent upon a limited number of suppliers of space segment, or transponder capacity, and may be significantly harmed if we are unable to obtain the space segment for the provision of services on favorable terms or on a timely basis.

Several of the components required to build our products are manufactured by a limited number of suppliers. Although we have managed to solve the difficulties we had with our suppliers with respect to availability of components, we cannot assure you of the continued availability of key components or our ability to forecast our component requirements sufficiently in advance. Our research and development and operations groups are continuously working with our suppliers and subcontractors to obtain components for our products on favorable terms in order to reduce the overall price of our products. If we are unable to obtain the necessary volume of components at sufficiently favorable terms or prices, we may be unable to produce our products at competitive prices. As a result, sales of our products may be lower than expected, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results. In addition, our suppliers are not always able to meet our requested lead times. If we are unable to satisfy customers’ needs on time, we could lose their business.

In 2016, we entered into a new outsourcing manufacturing agreement with a different single source manufacturer for almost all of our VSAT units. This agreement exposes us to certain risks related to our dependence on a single manufacturer which could include failure in meeting time tables and quantities, or material price increases which may affect our ability to provide competitive prices. We estimate that the replacement of the outsourcing manufacturer would, if necessary, take a period of between six to nine months.

There are only a limited number of suppliers of satellite transponder capacity and a limited amount of space segment available. We are dependent on these suppliers for our provision of services in Peru and in Colombia. While we do secure long term agreements with our satellite transponder providers, we cannot assure the continuous availability of space segment, the pricing upon renewals of space segment and the continuous availability and coverage in the regions where we supply services. If we are unable to secure contracts with satellite transponder providers with reliable service at competitive prices, our services business could be adversely affected.

We would be adversely affected if we are unable to attract and retain key personnel

Our success depends in part on key management, sales, marketing and development personnel and our continuing ability to attract and retain highly qualified personnel, including with respect to our acquired companies. There is competition for the services of such personnel.  The loss of the services of senior management and key personnel, and the failure to attract highly qualified personnel in the future, may have a negative impact on our business. Moreover, our competitors may hire and gain access to the expertise of our former employees or our former employees may compete with us. In 2015, several members of our management were replaced (including our Chief Financial Officer and our Chief Executive Officer, who was replaced by the Chairman in an interim CEO capacity and then by a new Chief Executive Officer appointed in 2016). In 2014, three key employees of our Wavestream subsidiary, including Wavestream’s chief executive officer, resigned from Wavestream and founded a company that competes with us. While we have successfully found replacements for these employees and executives in a timely manner, there is no assurance that former employees will not compete with us or that we will be able to find replacements for departing key employees in the future.

If demand for our mobility applications for air, land and sea , VSATs and other products declines or if we are unable to develop products to meet demand, our business could be adversely affected .

Our low-profile in-motion antenna systems and a portion of our SSPA product line are intended for mobility applications for air, land and sea.  If the demand for such products, our VSATs or other products declines, or if we are unable to develop products that are competitive in technology and pricing, we may not be able to realize our market focus and our Satellite Communication on the Move business and other businesses could be materially adversely affected.

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We may be unable to adequately protect our proprietary rights, which may limit our ability to compete effectively.

Our business is based mainly on our proprietary technology and related products and services. We establish and protect proprietary rights and technology used in our products by the use of patents, trade secrets, copyrights and trademarks. We also utilize non-disclosure and intellectual property assignment agreements. Because of the rapid technological changes and innovation that characterize the network communications industry, our success will depend in large part on our ability to protect and defend our intellectual property rights. Our actions to protect our proprietary rights in our VSAT and SSPAs technology and other products may be insufficient to protect our intellectual property rights and prevent others from developing products similar to our products. In addition, the laws of many foreign countries do not protect our intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the U.S. or we may have failed to enter into non-disclosure and intellectual property assignment agreements with certain persons.  If we are unable to protect our intellectual property, our ability to operate our business and generate expected revenues may be harmed.

Breaches of network or information technology security, natural disasters or terrorist attacks could have an adverse effect on our business.

Breaches of network or information technology (IT) security, including unauthorized access or security breaches, inclement weather, natural or man-made disasters, earthquakes, explosions, terrorist attacks, acts of war, floods, fires, cyber-attacks, computer viruses, power loss, telecommunications or equipment failures, transportation interruptions, accidents or other disruptive events or attempts to harm our systems may cause equipment failures or disrupt our systems and operations.  In particular, both unsuccessful and successful cyber-attacks on companies have increased in frequency, scope and potential harm in recent years.  Any such event result in our inability to operate our facilities, which, even if the event is for a limited period of time, may result in significant expenses and/or loss of market share to other competitors in the market for tele-management products and invoice management solutions. While we maintain insurance coverage for some of these events, which could offset some of the losses, the potential liabilities associated with these events could exceed the insurance coverage we maintain.  A failure to protect the privacy of customer and employee confidential data against breaches of network or IT security could result in damage to our reputation. Any of these occurrences could result in a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

We have been subject, and will likely continue to be subject, to attempts to breach the security of our networks and IT infrastructure through cyber-attack, malware, computer viruses and other means of unauthorized access. However, to date, we have not been subject to cyber-attacks or other cyber incidents which, individually or in the aggregate, resulted in a material impact to our operations or financial condition.

Trends and factors affecting the telecommunications industry are beyond our control and may result in reduced demand and pricing pressure on our products.

We operate in the telecommunication industry and are influenced by trends of that industry, which are beyond our control and may affect our operations. These trends include:

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adverse changes in the public and private equity and debt markets and our ability, as well as the ability of our customers and suppliers, to obtain financing or to fund working capital and capital expenditures;

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adverse changes in the credit ratings of our customers and suppliers;

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adverse changes in the market conditions in our industry and the specific markets for our products;

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access to, and the actual size and timing of, capital expenditures by our customers;

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inventory practices, including the timing of product and service deployment, of our customers;

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the amount of network capacity and the network capacity utilization rates of our customers, and the amount of sharing and/or acquisition of new and/or existing network capacity by our customers;

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·
the overall trend toward industry consolidation and rationalization among our customers, competitors, and suppliers;

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price reductions by our direct competitors and by competing technologies including, for example, the introduction of HTS satellite systems by our direct competitors which could significantly drive down market prices or limit the availability of satellite capacity for use with our VSAT systems;

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conditions in the broader market for communications products, including data networking products and computerized information access equipment and services;

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governmental regulation or intervention affecting communications or data networking;

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monetary instability in the countries where we operate; and

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the effects of war and acts of terrorism, such as disruptions in general global economic activity, changes in logistics and security arrangements and reduced customer demand for our products and services.

These trends and factors may reduce the demand for our products and services or require us to increase our research and development expenses and may harm our financial results.

Our international sales expose us to changes in foreign regulations and tariffs, tax exposures, political instability and other risks inherent to international business, any of which could adversely affect our operations.

We sell and distribute our products and provide our services internationally, particularly in the United States, Latin America, Asia, Asia Pacific, Africa and Europe. A component of our strategy is to continue and expand in international markets. Our operations can be limited or disrupted by various factors known to affect international trade. These factors include the following:

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imposition of governmental controls, regulations and taxation which might include a government’s decision to raise import tariffs or license fees in countries in which we do business;

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government regulations that may prevent us from choosing our business partners or restrict our activities;

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the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, or the FCPA, and applicable anti-corruption laws in other jurisdictions, which include anti-bribery provisions. Our policies mandate compliance with these laws. Nevertheless, we may not always be protected in cases of violation of the FCPA or other applicable anti-corruption laws by our employees or third-parties acting on our behalf. A violation of anti-corruption laws by our employees or third-parties during the performance of their obligations for us may have a material adverse effect on our reputation, operating results and financial condition;

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tax exposures in various jurisdictions relating to our activities throughout the world;

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political and/or economic instability in countries in which we do or desire to do business. Such unexpected changes could have an adverse effect on the gross margin of some of our projects. This includes similar risks from potential or current political and economic instability as well as volatility of foreign currencies in countries such as Colombia, Brazil, Venezuela and certain countries in East Asia;

·
difficulties in staffing and managing foreign operations that might mandate employing staff in various countries to manage foreign operations. This requirement could have an adverse effect on the profitability of certain projects;

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·
longer payment cycles and difficulties in collecting accounts receivable;

·
foreign exchange risks due to fluctuations in local currencies relative to the dollar; and

·
relevant zoning ordinances that may restrict the installation of satellite antennas and might also reduce market demand for our service. Additionally, authorities may increase regulation regarding the potential radiation hazard posed by transmitting earth station satellite antennas’ emissions of radio frequency energy that may negatively impact our business plan and revenues.

Any decline in commercial business in any country may have an adverse effect on our business as these trends often lead to a decline in technology purchases or upgrades by private companies. We expect that in difficult economic periods, countries in which we do business will find it more difficult to raise financing from investors for the further development of the telecommunications industry and private companies will find it more difficult to finance the purchase or upgrade of our technology. Any such changes could adversely affect our business in these and other countries.
If we fail to meet the covenants in our loan agreements with banks, or otherwise breach the terms of our credit agreements, the banks may accelerate payment of outstanding loans and our business could be seriously harmed.
Our loan agreements and credit and guarantee facilities with banks contain covenants regarding our maintenance of certain financial ratios. The covenants contained in our credit facilities restrict, among other things, our ability to pledge our assets, dispose of assets, or give guarantees. Our ability to continue to comply with these and other obligations depends in part on the future performance of our business. We cannot assure you that we shall be able to continue to comply with the covenants included in our agreements with the banks. If we fail to comply, we shall be required to renegotiate the terms of our credit facilities with the banks. We cannot assure you that we shall be able to reach an agreement with the banks or that such agreements will be on favorable terms to us. Our ability to restructure or refinance our credit facilities depends on the condition of the capital markets and our financial condition. Any refinancing of our existing credit facilities could be at higher interest rates and may require us to comply with different covenants, which could restrict our business operations.

We may face difficulties in obtaining regulatory approvals for our telecommunication services and products, which could adversely affect our operations.

Certain of our telecommunication operations require licenses and approvals by the Israeli Ministry of Communication, the Federal Communications Commission, or FCC, in the U.S. and by regulatory bodies in other countries. In Israel and the U.S., the operation of satellite earth station facilities and VSAT systems such as ours are prohibited except under licenses issued by the Israeli Ministry of Communication and the FCC in the U.S. Our airborne products require licenses and approvals by the Federal Aviation Agency, or FAA. We must also obtain approval of the regulatory authority in each country in which we propose to provide network services or operate VSATs. The approval process in Latin America and elsewhere can often take a substantial amount of time and require substantial resources.

In addition, any licenses and approvals that are granted may be subject to conditions that may restrict our activities or otherwise adversely affect our operations. Also, after obtaining the required licenses and approvals, the regulating agencies may, at any time, impose additional requirements on our operations. We cannot assure you that we will be able to comply with any new requirements or conditions imposed by such regulating agencies on a timely or economically efficient basis.

Our products are also subject to requirements to obtain certification of compliance with local regulatory standards. Delays in receiving such certification could adversely affect our operations.

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Currency exchange rates and fluctuations of currency exchange rates may adversely affect our results of operations, liabilities, and assets.

Since we operate in several countries, we are impacted by currency exchange rates and fluctuations of various currencies. Although partially mitigated by our hedging activities, we are impacted by currency exchange rates and fluctuations thereof in a number of ways, including the following:

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A significant portion of our expenses, principally salaries and related personnel expenses, are incurred in NIS, and to a lesser extent, other non-U.S. dollar currencies, whereas the currency we use to report our financial results is the U.S. dollar and a significant portion of our revenue is generated in U.S. dollars. A significant strengthening of the NIS against the U.S. dollar can considerably increase the U.S. dollar value of our expenses in Israel and our results of operations may be adversely affected;

·
A portion of our international sales is denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar, including but not limited to the Euro, Colombian Peso, Australian Dollar, Brazilian Real, Peruvian Sol, Russian Ruble, Malaysian Ringgit and the Mexican Peso, therefore we are exposed to the risk of devaluation of such currencies relative to the dollar which could have a negative impact on our revenues ;

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We have assets and liabilities that are denominated in non-U.S. dollar currencies. Therefore, significant fluctuation in these other currencies could have significant effect on our results; and

·
A portion of our U.S. dollar revenues are derived from customers operating in local currencies which are different from the U.S. dollar. Therefore, devaluation in the local currencies of our customers relative to the U.S. dollar could cause our customers to cancel or decrease orders or delay payment.

We are also subject to other foreign currency risks including repatriation restrictions in certain countries, particularly in Latin America. As noted above, from time to time, we enter into hedging transactions to attempt to limit the impact of foreign currency fluctuations. However, the protection provided by such hedging transactions may be partial and leave certain exchange rate-related losses and risks uncovered. Therefore, our business and profitability may be harmed by such exchange rate fluctuations.

The transfer and use of some of our technology and its production outside of Israel is limited because of the research and development grants we received from the Israeli government to develop such technology.

Our research and development efforts associated with the development of certain of our products have been partially financed through grants from the Innovation Authority (formerly the Office of the Chief Scientist) of the Israeli Ministry of Economy. We are subject to certain restrictions under the terms of these grants. Specifically, any product incorporating technology developed with the funding provided by these grants may not be manufactured outside Israel, nor may the technology which is embodied in our products be transferred, without appropriate governmental approvals. Such approvals, if granted, may involve increased royalty payments to the Innovation Authority for royalty-bearing programs. These restrictions do not apply to the sale or export from Israel of our products developed with this technology.

We may not be compliant with the requirements for Approved Enterprise status and may be denied benefits. Israeli government programs and tax benefits may be terminated or reduced in the future.

We participate in programs of the Israeli Innovation Authority and the Israel Investment Center, for which we receive tax and other benefits as well as funding for the development of technologies and products. We have been granted “Approved Enterprise” status under the Investment Law. If we fail to comply with the conditions applicable to this status under the Investment Law, we may be required to pay additional taxes and penalties or make refunds and may be denied future benefits. From time to time, the government of Israel has discussed reducing or eliminating the benefits available under such programs, and therefore these benefits may not be available in the future at current levels or at all.

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We may be subject to claims by third parties alleging that we infringe intellectual property owned by them. We may be required to commence litigation to protect our intellectual property rights. Any intellectual property litigation may continue for an extended period and may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and operating results.

There are numerous patents, both pending and issued, in the network communications industry. We may unknowingly infringe on a patent. We may from time to time be notified of claims that we are infringing on patents, copyrights or other intellectual property rights owned by third parties. While we do not believe that we have infringed in the past or are infringing at present on any intellectual property rights of third parties, we cannot assure you that we will not be subject to such claims or that damages for any such claim will not be awarded against us by a court.

In addition, we may be required to commence litigation to protect our intellectual property rights and trade secrets, to determine the validity and scope of the proprietary rights of others or to defend against third‑party claims of invalidity or infringement. An adverse result of any litigation could force us to pay substantial damages, stop designing, manufacturing, using or selling related products, spend significant resources to develop alternative technologies, discontinue using certain processes or obtain licenses. In addition, we may not be able to develop alternative technology, and we may not be able to find appropriate licenses on reasonably satisfactory terms. Any such litigation could result in substantial costs and diversion of resources and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

We are required to comply with “conflict minerals” rules promulgated by the SEC, which impose costs on us, may make our supply chain more complex, and could adversely impact our business.

In August 2012, the SEC adopted a rule requiring disclosure by public companies of the origin, source and chain of custody of specified minerals, known as conflict minerals, that are necessary to the functionality or production of products manufactured or contracted to be manufactured by us. The rule requires companies to obtain sourcing data from suppliers, engage in supply chain due diligence, and file annually with the SEC a specialized disclosure report on Form SD covering the prior calendar year. Implementation of our conflict minerals policy could limit our ability to source at competitive prices and to secure sufficient quantities of certain minerals used in the manufacture of our products, specifically tantalum, tin, gold and tungsten, as the number of suppliers that provide conflict-free minerals may be limited. In addition, we have incurred costs, and may incur material costs associated with complying with the conflict minerals rule, such as costs related to the determination of the origin, source and chain of custody of the minerals used in our products, the adoption of conflict minerals -related governance policies, processes and controls, and possible changes to products or sources of supply as a result of such activities. Within our supply chain, we may not be able to sufficiently verify the origins of the relevant minerals used in our products through the data collection and due diligence procedures that we implement, which may harm our reputation. Furthermore, we may encounter challenges in satisfying those customers that require that all of the components of our products be certified as conflict free, and if we cannot satisfy these customers, they may choose a competitor’s products. We continue to investigate the presence of conflict materials within our supply chain.

Potential product liability claims relating to our products could have a material adverse effect on our business.

We may be subject to product liability claims relating to the products we sell. Potential product liability claims could include, among others, claims for exposure to electromagnetic radiation from the antennas we provide. We endeavor to include in our agreements with our business customers provisions designed to limit our exposure to potential claims. We also maintain a product liability insurance policy. However, our contractual limitation of liability may be rejected or limited in certain jurisdictions and our insurance may not cover all relevant claims or may not provide sufficient coverage. To date, we have not been subject to any material product liability claim. Our business, financial condition and operating results could be materially adversely affected if costs resulting from future claims are not covered by our insurance or exceed our coverage.

Environmental laws and regulations may subject us to significant liability.

Our operations are subject to various Israeli, U.S. federal, state and local as well as certain other foreign environmental laws and regulations within the countries in which we operate relating to the discharge, storage, treatment, handling, disposal and remediation of certain materials, substances and wastes used in our operations.

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New laws and regulations, stricter enforcement of existing laws and regulations, the discovery of previously unknown contamination or the imposition of new clean-up requirements may require us to incur a significant amount of additional costs in the future and could decrease the amount of cash flow available to us for other purposes, including capital expenditures, research and development and other investments and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and future prospects. We may identify deficiencies in our compliance with local legislation within countries in which we operate. Failure to comply with such legislation could result in sanctions by regulatory authorities and could adversely affect our operating results .

Risks Related to Ownership of Our Ordinary Shares

Our share price has been highly volatile and may continue to be volatile and decline.

The trading price of our shares has fluctuated widely in the past and may continue to do so in the future as a result of a number of factors, many of which are outside our control. In addition, the stock market has experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations that have affected the market prices of many technology companies, particularly telecommunication and Internet‑related companies, and that have often been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of these companies. These broad market fluctuations could adversely affect the market price of our shares. In the past, following periods of volatility in the market price of a particular company’s securities, securities class action litigation has often been brought against that company. Securities class action litigation against us could result in substantial costs and a diversion of our management’s attention and resources.

Our operating results may vary significantly from quarter to quarter and these quarterly variations in operating results, as well as other factors, may contribute to the volatility of the market price of our shares.

Our operating results have and may continue to vary significantly from quarter to quarter. The causes of fluctuations include, among other things:

·
the timing, size and composition of requests for proposals or orders from customers;

·
the timing of introducing new products and product enhancements by us and the level of their market acceptance;

·
the mix of products and services we offer; and

·
the changes in the competitive environment in which we operate.

The quarterly variation of our operating results, may, in turn, create volatility in the market price for our shares. Other factors that may contribute to wide fluctuations in our market price, many of which are beyond our control, include, but are not limited to:

·
economic instability;

·
announcements of technological innovations;

·
customer orders or new products or contracts;

·
competitors’ positions in the market;

·
changes in financial estimates by securities analysts;

·
conditions and trends in the VSAT and other technology industries relevant to our businesses;

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·
our earnings releases and the earnings releases of our competitors; and

·
the general state of the securities markets (with particular emphasis on the technology and Israeli sectors thereof).

In addition to the volatility of the market price of our shares, the stock market in general and the market for technology companies in particular has been highly volatile and at times thinly traded. Investors may not be able to resell their shares during and following periods of volatility.

We may in the future be classified as a passive foreign investment company, or PFIC, which will subject our U.S. investors to adverse tax rules.
U.S. holders of our ordinary shares may face income tax risks. There is a risk that we will be treated as a “passive foreign investment company” or PFIC.  Our treatment as a PFIC could result in a reduction in the after-tax return to the holders of our ordinary shares and would likely cause a reduction in the value of such shares. A foreign corporation will be treated as a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes if either (1) at least 75% of its gross income for any taxable year consists of certain types of “passive income,” or (2) at least 50% of the average value of the corporation’s gross assets produce, or are held for the production of, such types of “passive income.” For purposes of these tests, “passive income” includes dividends, interest, gains from the sale or exchange of investment property and rents and royalties other than rents and royalties that are received from unrelated parties in connection with the active conduct of trade or business. For purposes of these tests, income derived from the performance of services does not constitute “passive income”. If we are treated as a PFIC, U.S. Holders of shares (or rights) would be subject to a special adverse U.S. federal income tax regime with respect to the income derived by us, the distributions they receive from us, and the gain, if any, they derive from the sale or other disposition of their ordinary shares (or rights). In particular, any dividends paid by us, if any, would not be treated as “qualified dividend income” eligible for preferential tax rates in the hands of non-corporate U.S. shareholders.  We believe that we were not a PFIC for the taxable year of 2016.  However, since PFIC status depends upon the composition of our income and the market value of our assets from time to time, there can be no assurance that we will not become a PFIC in any future taxable year. U.S. Holders should carefully read Item 10E. “Additional Information – Taxation” for a more complete discussion of the U.S. federal income tax risks related to owning and disposing of our ordinary shares (or rights).

Future sales of our ordinary shares and the future exercise of options may cause the market price of our ordinary shares to decline and may result in a substantial dilution.

We cannot predict what effect, if any, future sales of our ordinary shares by the private equity firm, FIMI Opportunity Funds, or FIMI Funds and our other significant shareholders, or the availability for future sale of our ordinary shares, including shares issuable upon the exercise of our options, will have on the market price of our ordinary shares.  Sales of substantial amounts of our ordinary shares in the public market by our company or our significant shareholders, or the perception that such sales could occur, could adversely affect the market price of our ordinary shares and may make it more difficult for you to sell your ordinary shares at a time and price you deem appropriate.

We have never paid cash dividends and have no intention to pay dividends in the foreseeable future.

We have never paid cash dividends on our shares and do not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. We intend to continue retaining earnings for use in our business, in particular to fund our research and development, which are important to capitalize on technological changes and develop new products and applications. In addition, the terms of some of our financing arrangements restrict us from paying dividends to our shareholders. Any future dividend distributions are subject to the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on various factors, including our operating results, future earnings, capital requirements, financial condition, and tax implications of dividend distributions on our income, future prospects and any other factors deemed relevant by our board of directors.  The distribution of dividends is also limited by Israeli law, which permits the distribution of dividends by an Israeli corporation only out of its retained earnings as defined in Israel’s Companies Law, 5759-1999, or the Companies Law, provided that there is no reasonable concern that such payment will cause us to fail to meet our current and expected liabilities as they become due, or otherwise with the court’s permission. You should not invest in our company if you require dividend income from your investment.
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Our ordinary shares are traded on more than one market and this may result in price variations.

Our ordinary shares are traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market and on the TASE. Trading in our ordinary shares on these markets is made in different currencies (U.S. dollars on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, and NIS on the TASE), and at different times (resulting from different time zones, different trading days and different public holidays in the U.S. and Israel). Consequently, the trading prices of our ordinary shares on these two markets often differ. Any decrease in the trading price of our ordinary shares on one of these markets could cause a decrease in the trading price of our ordinary shares on the other market.

If we are unable to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting in accordance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the reliability of our financial statements may be questioned and our share price may suffer.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 imposes certain duties on us and on our executives and directors. To comply with this statute, we are required to document and test our internal control over financial reporting, and our independent registered public accounting firm must issue an attestation report on our internal control procedures, and our management is required to assess and issue a report concerning our internal control over financial reporting. Our efforts to comply with these requirements have resulted in increased general and administrative expenses and a diversion of management time and attention, and we expect these efforts to require the continued commitment of significant resources. We may identify material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in our assessments of our internal controls over financial reporting. Failure to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting could result in investigation or sanctions by regulatory authorities, and could adversely affect our operating results, investor confidence in our reported financial information and the market price of our ordinary shares.
Certain of our shareholders beneficially own a substantial percentage of our ordinary shares.
As of the date hereof, FIMI, our controlling shareholder, holds approximately 34.5% of our outstanding ordinary shares. This concentration of ownership of our ordinary shares could delay or prevent mergers, tender offers, or other purchases of our ordinary shares that might otherwise give our shareholders the opportunity to realize a premium over the then-prevailing market price for our ordinary shares. This concentration could also accelerate these same transactions in lieu of others depriving shareholders of opportunities. This concentration of ownership may also cause a decrease in the volume of trading or otherwise adversely affect our share price.

Risks Related to Our Location in Israel

Political and economic conditions in Israel may limit our ability to produce and sell our products. This could have a material adverse effect on our operations and business condition, harm our results of operations and adversely affect our share price.

We are incorporated under the laws of the State of Israel, where we also maintain our headquarters and most of our manufacturing and research and development facilities. As a result, political, economic and military conditions affecting Israel directly influence us.  Any major hostilities involving Israel, a full or partial mobilization of the reserve forces of the Israeli army, the interruption or curtailment of trade or air traffic between Israel and its trading partners, or a significant downturn in the economic or financial condition of Israel could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Since its establishment in 1948, Israel has been involved in a number of armed conflicts with its Arab neighbors and a state of hostility, varying from time to time in intensity and degree, has continued into 2016. In recent years, there was an escalation in violence among Israel, ISIS, Hamas, the Palestinian Authority and other groups, as well as terrorist attacks, hostilities along Israel’s border with the Gaza Strip and missiles fired by ISIS from the Sinai into Israel. Also, riots and uprisings in several countries in the Middle East and neighboring regions and armed conflicts, including in Syria and attacks carried out by ISIS, have led to a refugee crisis and severe political instability in several neighboring states and to a decline in the regional security situation. Such instability may affect the local and global economy, could negatively affect business conditions and, therefore, could adversely affect our operations. In addition, Iran has threatened to attack Israel and is widely believed to be developing nuclear weapons. Iran is also believed to have a strong influence among extremist groups in areas that neighbor Israel, such as Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. To date, these matters have not had any material effect on our business and results of operations; however, the regional security situation and worldwide perceptions of it are outside our control and there can be no assurance that these matters will not negatively affect us in the future.
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Furthermore, there are a number of countries, primarily in the Middle East, as well as Malaysia and Indonesia that restrict business with Israel or Israeli companies, and we are precluded from marketing our products to these countries directly from Israel. Restrictive laws or policies directed towards Israel or Israeli businesses may have an adverse impact on our operations, our financial results or the expansion of our business.
Your rights and responsibilities as a shareholder are governed by Israeli law and differ in some respects from those under Delaware law.

Because we are an Israeli company, the rights and responsibilities of our shareholders are governed by our Articles of Association and by Israeli law. These rights and responsibilities differ in some respects from the rights and responsibilities of shareholders in a Delaware corporation. In particular, a shareholder of an Israeli company has a duty to act in good faith towards the company and other shareholders and to refrain from abusing his, her or its power in the company, including, among other things, in voting at the general meeting of shareholders on certain matters. Israeli law provides that these duties are applicable to shareholder votes on, among other things, amendments to a company’s articles of association, increases in a company’s authorized share capital, mergers and interested party transactions requiring shareholder approval. In addition, a shareholder who knows that it possesses the power to determine the outcome of a shareholders’ vote or to appoint or prevent the appointment of a director or executive officer in the company has a duty of fairness towards the company. However, Israeli law does not define the substance of this duty of fairness. There is little case law available to assist in understanding the implications of these provisions that govern shareholder behavior.
As a foreign private issuer whose shares are listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, we follow certain home country corporate governance practices instead of certain NASDAQ requirements, which may not afford shareholders with the same protections that shareholders of domestic companies have.

As a foreign private issuer whose shares are listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, we are permitted to follow certain home country corporate governance practices instead of certain requirements of The NASDAQ Marketplace Rules. We follow Israeli law and practice instead of The NASDAQ Marketplace Rules with respect to the director nominations process and the requirement to obtain shareholder approval for the establishment or material amendment of certain equity-based compensation plans and arrangements.  As a foreign private issuer listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, we may also follow home country practice with regard to, among other things, the requirement to obtain shareholder approval for certain dilutive events (such as for an issuance that will result in a change of control of the company, certain transactions other than a public offering involving issuances of a 20% or more interest in the company and certain acquisitions of the stock or assets of another company). A foreign private issuer that elects to follow a home country practice instead of NASDAQ requirements must submit to NASDAQ in advance a written statement from an independent counsel in such issuer’s home country certifying that the issuer’s practices are not prohibited by the home country’s laws. In addition, a foreign private issuer must disclose in its annual reports filed with the SEC each such requirement that it does not follow and describe the home country practice followed by the issuer instead of any such requirement. Accordingly, our shareholders may not be afforded the same protection as provided under NASDAQ’s corporate governance rules.
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If we are unable to comply with Israel’s enhanced export control regulations our ability to export our products from Israel could be negatively impacted.
Our export of military products and related technical information is also subject to enhanced Israeli Ministry of Defense regulations regarding defense export controls and the export of “dual use” items (items that are typically sold in the commercial market but that may also be used in the defense market). Some of our products are exempted from Israeli Ministry of Defense export control. The Israeli Ministry of Defense may change the classification of our existing commercial products or may determine that new products we develop are not exempt from Israeli Ministry of Defense export control. This would place such products subject to the Israeli Ministry of Defense export control regulations as military products or “dual use” items, which would impose on our sales process stringent constraints in relation to each sale transaction and limit our markets. If we do not maintain our existing authorizations and exemption or obtain necessary future authorizations and exemptions under the export control laws and regulations of Israel, including export licenses for the sale of our equipment and the transfer of technical information, we may be unable to export technical information or equipment outside of Israel, we may not be able to realize our market focus and our business could be materially adversely affected.

Our results of operations may be negatively affected by the obligation of our personnel to perform military service.

A significant number of our employees in Israel are obligated to perform annual reserve duty in the Israeli Defense Forces and may be called for active duty under emergency circumstances at any time.  If a military conflict or war arises, these individuals could be required to serve in the military for extended periods of time.  Our operations could be disrupted by a significant absence of one or more of our key employees or a significant number of other employees due to military service.  Any disruption in our operations could adversely affect our business.

You may not be able to enforce civil liabilities in the U.S. against our officers and directors.
We are incorporated in Israel. All of our directors and executive officers reside outside the U.S., and a significant portion of our assets and the personal assets of most of our directors and executive officers are located outside the U.S. Therefore, it may be difficult to effect service of process upon any of these persons within the U.S. In addition, a judgment obtained in the U.S. against us, or against such individuals, including but not limited to judgments based on the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities laws, may not be collectible within the U.S.
Additionally, it may be difficult for an investor or any other person or entity, to assert U.S. securities law claims in original actions instituted in Israel. Israeli courts may refuse to hear a claim based on a violation of U.S. securities laws on the ground that Israel is not the most appropriate forum in which to bring such a claim. Even if an Israeli court agrees to hear a claim, it may determine that Israeli law is applicable to the claim. Certain matters of procedures will also be governed by Israeli law.

Israeli law may delay, prevent or make difficult a merger with or an acquisition of us, which could prevent a change of control and therefore depress the price of our shares.

Provisions of Israeli law may delay, prevent or make undesirable a merger or an acquisition of all or a significant portion of our shares or assets. Israeli corporate law regulates acquisitions of shares through tender offers and mergers, requires special approvals for transactions involving significant shareholders and regulates other matters that may be relevant to these types of transactions. These provisions of Israeli law could have the effect of delaying or preventing a change in control and may make it more difficult for a third party to acquire us, even if doing so would be beneficial to our shareholders. These provisions may limit the price that investors may be willing to pay in the future for our ordinary shares. Furthermore, Israeli tax considerations may make potential transactions undesirable to us or to some of our shareholders.

Under current Israeli law, U.S. law and the laws of other jurisdictions, we may not be able to enforce covenants not to compete and therefore may be unable to prevent our competitors from benefiting from the expertise of some of our former employees.

We currently have non-competition clauses in the employment agreements of our employees in certain regions. The provisions of such clauses prohibit our employees, if they cease working for us, from directly competing with us or working for our competitors for a certain period of time. Israeli labor courts have required employers, seeking to enforce non-compete undertakings against former employees, to demonstrate that the competitive activities of the former employee will cause harm to one of a limited number of material interests of the employer recognized by the courts (for example, the confidentiality of certain commercial information or a company’s intellectual property). In the event that any of our employees chooses to leave and work for one of our competitors, we may be unable to prevent our competitors from benefiting from the expertise of our former employee obtained from us, if we cannot demonstrate to the court that our interests as defined by case law would be harmed. Non-competition clauses may be unenforceable or enforceable only to a limited extent in other jurisdictions as well.

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ITEM 4:          INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

A.
History and Development of the Company
We were incorporated in Israel in 1987 and are subject to the laws of the State of Israel. We are a public limited liability company under Israel’s Companies Law and operate under that law and associated legislation. Our corporate headquarters, executive offices and main research and development and engineering facilities, as well as facilities for some manufacturing and product assembly are located at Gilat House, 21 Yegia Kapayim Street, Kiryat Arye, Petah Tikva 4913020, Israel. Our telephone number is (972) 3-925-2000. Our address in the U.S. is c/o Wavestream Corporation at 545 West Terrace Drive, San Dimas, California 91773.  Our web-site address is www.gilat.com . The information on our website is not incorporated by reference into this annual report.

We are a leading global provider of satellite-based broadband communications. We design and manufacture ground segment equipment and provide comprehensive solutions and end-to-end services, powered by our innovative technology. Our portfolio comprises a cloud based satellite network platform, VSAT terminals, amplifiers, high-speed modems, high performance on-the-move antennas, high efficiency, high power SSPA amplifiers and BUCs. Our comprehensive solutions support multiple applications with a full portfolio of products to address key applications including broadband access, cellular backhaul, enterprise, in-flight connectivity, maritime, trains, defense and public safety, all while meeting stringent service level requirements. We also provide connectivity services, Internet access and telephony to enterprise, government and residential customers in Peru and Colombia over networks built using our own equipment and also over other networks that we install, mainly on the basis of BOT contracts. Additionally, we build telecommunication infrastructure typically using fiber-optic and wireless technologies for broadband connectivity.
Our products are primarily sold to communication service providers and operators that use satellite communications for their customers and to government organizations and system integrators that use our technology. We are particularly active in the following market sectors: enterprise and government applications; consumer broadband access; cellular connectivity; national telecommunication connectivity; and mobility applications for air, land and sea. We provide services directly to end-users in various market sectors including in certain countries in Latin America and provide managed network services, such as in Australia, over a satellite network owned by a third party. We have 20 sales and support offices worldwide , three network operations centers and five R&D centers .

We shipped our first generation VSAT in 1989 and since then we have been among the technological leaders in the satellite ground equipment industry.  Our continuous investment in research and development has resulted in the development of new and industry‑leading products and our intellectual property portfolio includes 64 issued patents (54 U.S. and 10 foreign) relating to our VSAT and other systems as well as 18 issued patents (16 U.S. and 2 foreign) relating to our Satellite Communication on the Move antenna solutions and 13 issued patents (3 U.S. and 10 foreign) for our high power SSPAs .

In December 2013, we sold our Spacenet subsidiary, a provider of managed network communications services utilizing satellite wireline and wireless networks and associated technology, for approximately $16 million, subject to certain post-closing adjustments and expenses.

In 2016, 2015 and 2014, our property and equipment purchases related to our continuing operations amounted to approximately $4.3 million, $3.9 million and $12.6 million, respectively.  These amounts do not include the reclassification of inventory to property and equipment made during 2016, 2015 and 2014 in the approximate amounts of $2.5 million, $2.5 million and $2.9 million, respectively.
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B.
Business Overview
We are a leading provider of satellite ground segment and other network communications solutions and services. We design and manufacture satellite ground segment and networking communications equipment, which we sell to our customers either as network components (modems, BUCs, antennas) or as complete network solutions (which include hubs and related terminals and services) or turnkey projects. The equipment that we develop includes commercial VSAT systems, defense and homeland security satellite communications systems, SSPAs, BUCs, low-profile antennas, on-the-Move / on-the-Pause terminals and modems. Our equipment is used by satellite operators, service providers, telecommunications operators, system integrators, government and defense organizations, large corporations and enterprises. We sell and distribute our products and provide our services internationally, in Latin America, Asia, Asia Pacific, North America, Africa and Europe. In particular, we provide connectivity services, Internet access and telephony, to enterprise, government and residential customers in Peru and Colombia over our own networks, built using both our equipment and equipment purchased from other manufacturers in various technologies. We also provide NOC operations and hub services, such as in Australia, over a VSAT network owned by SingTel Optus Pty Limited, or Optus, a large Australian telecommunication company.

Since 2012, in line with our efforts to improve our business structure and organization for our target markets, we operate in three business divisions:
• Commercial Division – provides advanced satellite networks, fixed satellite communication systems, small cell solutions and associated professional services and comprehensive turnkey solutions. Our customers are service providers, satellite operators, MNOs, Telcos, and large enterprises worldwide. We focus on HTS opportunities worldwide and are driving meaningful partnerships with satellite operators to leverage our technology and breadth of services to deploy and operate the ground segment.
• Mobility Division – provides advanced, satellite communication on the move systems, including airborne, maritime and ground-mobile satellite systems and solutions.  Our customers are, service providers, system integrators, defense and homeland security organizations, as well as to other commercial entities worldwide. The division provides solutions on land, sea and air, while placing major focus on the high-growth IFC market, with its unique leading technology. The division’s portfolio comprises high-speed modems, high performance on-the-move antennas and high efficiency, high power SSPAs and BUCs.
• Services Division – provides managed network and services for rural broadband access via our subsidiaries in Peru and Colombia. Our connectivity solutions have been implemented in large and national scale projects. Our terrestrial and satellite networks provide Internet and telephony services to thousands of rural communities and schools. Our turnkey solutions start with supplying network infrastructure, continue through ensuring high-quality, reliable connectivity and include full network support and maintenance, as well as support for applications that run on the installed network.
In the year ended December 31, 2016, we derived approximately 34%, 22% and 44% of our revenues from our Commercial Division, Mobility Division and Services Division, respectively.

We have diversified revenue streams that result from both sales of products, which include construction of networks, and services. In the year ended December 31, 2016, approximately 77% of our revenues were derived from sales of products and 23% from services.  During the same period, we derived 51%, 20%, 17% and 12% of our revenues from Latin America, North America, APAC and EMEA, respectively.

Industry Overview

There is a global demand for satellite-based communications solutions for a number of reasons. Primarily, satellite-based communications is still the only truly ubiquitous networking solution. Secondly, satellite communications are more readily available as compared to alternative terrestrial communications networks. Lastly, satellite communications solutions offer rapidly deployed secure broadband connectivity and broadband communications on the move.

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A two-way broadband satellite communications solution is comprised of the following elements:

·
Communications satellite – Typically a satellite in geostationary orbit (synchronized with the earth’s orbit) with a fixed coverage of a portion of the earth (up to approximately one third).

·
Satellite communications ground station equipment – These are devices that have a combination of data communications and Radio Frequency, or RF elements designed to deliver data via communication satellites. Examples of ground station equipment are remote site terminals, such as VSATs, central hub station systems, modem, amplifiers, BUCs and antennas.

·
Modem – This is the device that modulates the digital data into an analog RF signal for delivery to the upconverter, and demodulates the analog signals from the downconverter back into digital data. The modem, which is typically located indoors, performs data processing functions such as traffic management and prioritization and provides the digital interfaces (Ethernet port/s) for connecting to the user’s equipment (PC, switch, etc.).

·
Amplifiers and BUCs – These are the components that connect the ground station equipment with the antenna. The purpose of the amplifiers and BUCs is to amplify the power and convert the frequency of the transmitted RF signal.
·
Antenna – Antennas can vary quite significantly in size, power and complexity depending on the ground equipment they are connected to, and their application. For example, antennas connected to remote sites generally are in the range of one meter in diameter while those connected to the central hub system can be in the range of ten meters in diameter. Antennas used on moving platforms need to be compact and have an auto-pointing mechanism so that they can remain locked onto the satellite during motion.

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Broadband satellite networks are comprised of ground stations at multiple locations that communicate through a satellite in geostationary orbit, providing continent-wide wireless connectivity. Satellite broadband networks are used to provide a variety of traffic types such as broadband data, video and voice. The value chain of satellite network services consists of the following four main elements:


Satellite operators provide satellite transponder capacity (a portion of the satellite’s bandwidth and power which is used to establish one or more communication channels) on satellites positioned in geostationary orbit above the equator. A typical satellite can cover a geographic area the size of the continental U.S. or larger. The satellite receives information from the ground station equipment, amplifies it and transmits it back to earth on a different frequency. Satellite operators sell the capacity in a variety of leasing agreements to their customers. Our technology is compatible with C‑band, Ku‑band and Ka‑band satellites including special extended C‑band and extended Ku‑band satellites. Some of the leading satellite operators are Intelsat, SES, Chinasat and Eutelsat.

Ground equipment providers manufacture network equipment for both satellite communications networks and broadcast markets. Satellite communications systems connect a large central earth station, called a hub, with multiple remote sites equipment, called VSATs (ranging from tens to thousands of sites), which communicate via satellite.  We are a leading ground equipment provider for hubs VSATs, high-power amplifiers and low-profile antennas for satellite communications on-the-move.

Communication service providers buy equipment from ground equipment providers, install and maintain such equipment, lease capacity from satellite operators and sell a full package of communication services to the end user.

End users are customers that use satellite communications equipment and services. Examples of end users range from enterprises, to government ministries and defense organizations, to residential consumers.

System integrators are companies that provide customized solutions to end users by integrating the necessary equipment and services. For example, defense organizations often work with specialized system integrators that integrate various components, such as power amplifiers and low profile antennas, into a satellite terminal.

Satellite broadband networks are typically systems deployed in a hub-and-spoke configuration, with remote locations connecting via satellite to a central hub station. Satellite communications networks have a diverse range of uses and applications, and provide communication services as a stand‑alone, alternative, or complementary service to terrestrial networks.

We believe that the advantages of satellite communications networks include:
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Universal availability – Satellite communications provide service to any location within a satellite footprint.

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Timely implementation – Large satellite communications networks with thousands of remote sites can be deployed within a few weeks.

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Broadcast and multicast capabilities – Satellite is an optimal solution for broadcast and multicast transmission as the satellite signal is simultaneously received by any group of users in the satellite footprint.

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Reliability and service availability – Satellite communications network availability is high due to the satellite and ground equipment reliability, the small number of components in the network and terrestrial infrastructure independence.

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Scalability – Satellite communications networks scale easily from a single site to thousands of locations.

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Cost-effectiveness – The cost of satellite communications networks is independent of distance and therefore it is a cost-effective solution for networks comprised of multiple sites in remote locations.

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Applications delivery – Satellite communications networks offer a wide variety of customer applications such as e‑mail, virtual private networks, video, voice, Internet access, distance learning, cellular backhaul and financial transactions.

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Portability and Mobility – Satellite communications solutions can be mounted on moving platforms for communications on the move, or deployed rapidly for communications in fixed locations and then relocated or moved as required.

Given the technological and implementation benefits afforded by satellite communications networks, we believe that the market for satellite communications products and services will continue to grow. In particular, according to a 2016 report from NSR, a leading international telecom market research and consulting firm, the number of broadband satellite sites and subscribers is expected to grow at a compounded annual growth rate, or CAGR, of 19% through 2025.

Further, according to a 2016 report of NSR, aggregated satellite capacity has grown significantly in recent years and is forecasted to grow further in the coming years. According to the report, the growing availability of satellite capacity has resulted in significant reduction in the cost of satellite capacity.

In addition, satellite communications is an effective solution for mobility, especially for maritime and for international flight.

The availability of auto-pointing satellite antennas designed for in-motion two way communications has created market demand from both commercial and government/defense segments. These antennas are usually mounted on a moving platform (airplane, boat, train, unmanned aerial vehicles, or UAVs) and connected to a satellite terminal within or on the platform. An important requirement for these applications is that they have light-weight and low-profile antennas, to minimize air drag and fuel consumption. We believe that the demand for light-weight, low-profile antenna systems will increase as well.

Another important requirement emerging is for next generation solid-state power amplifiers able to provide high output power, greater efficiency and field-proven reliability in smaller, lighter weight product packages suitable for fixed, mobile, and airborne antenna systems. These amplifiers, designed and thoroughly tested for use in extreme environments, help provide uninterrupted connectivity to support mission-critical defense operations, as well as demanding inflight connectivity and consumer broadband applications.

There are five primary market categories that require broadband satellite products and services:

Enterprise and Business. End-users include large companies and organizations, Small- Medium Enterprises, or SMEs, and Small Office / Home Office (SOHO) end users.. For enterprises, satellite communications networks offer network connectivity and deliver voice, data and video within corporations (known as corporate intranets), Internet access, transaction‑based connectivity that enables on‑line data delivery such as point‑of‑sale (credit and debit card authorization), inventory control and real time stock exchange trading.

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Cellular Backhaul. Cellular networks comprised of backhaul connections to connect the cellular base stations that serve multiple customers. Cellular backhaul connectivity requires more demanding network performance. These requirements usually include a high level of quality of service, or QoS, high speed connectivity, and more control over the network. Satellite backhaul applications include both primary and backup connectivity.

Rural Telecommunications. The rural telecommunications market is comprised of communities throughout the world that require telephone, and Internet access in areas that are unserved or underserved by existing telecommunications services. These communication services are usually provided to the rural population via government‑subsidized initiatives. This market sector is comprised of “Build‑Operate” projects, in which governments subsidize the establishment and the operation of a rural network to be served by a satellite, wireless or cellular service provider that is usually selected in a bid process. In other instances, local communications operators have universal service obligations, or USOs, which require them to serve rural areas lacking terrestrial infrastructure. Some local communications operators elect to fulfill this obligation by hiring third parties in a model known as “Build‑Operate‑Transfer.” In these instances, the network is established and made operational by a third party service provider, which operates it for a certain period of time and then it is transferred to the operator.

Consumer. The consumer market consists of residential users. These users require a high‑speed internet connection similar to a digital subscriber line, or DSL, or cable modem service.
Government. The government sector consists of homeland security and military users. The versatility, reliability, and resiliency of satellite broadband networks, the in-motion low profile antennas and the lightweight SSPAs are a perfect fit for security and armed forces. Spatial-combining technology implemented on the Wavestream SSPAs introduces significant efficiency, size and weight advantages. For example, satellite communications systems with low power lightweight amplifiers can be quickly deployed in disaster areas, as a replacement for destroyed wireless or wire line networks, providing communication services to emergency personnel and law enforcement units.

Our Competitive Strengths

We are a leading provider of satellite communication and networking products and services. Our competitive strengths include:

Market leadership in large and growing markets. Since our inception, we have sold more than 1. 5 million satellite terminals (VSATs), over 3,000 low profile antennas and over 25,000 BUCs and SSPAs to customers in approximately 90 countries. Our customer base includes a large number of satellite‑based communications service providers, system integrators and operators worldwide. In addition, we are one of the largest satellite communications service providers to rural communities in Latin America.

Technology leadership. We have been at the forefront of satellite communications technology and services for 30 years and continue to be an innovator and developer of new satellite technologies. Our customizable satellite communications technology enables us to provide a wide range of broadband, Internet, voice, data and video solutions to our customers. We offer hubs and optimized satellite terminals (VSATs) which can attain a rate of up to 200Mbps. Our product and operations infrastructure is capable of running hubs with greater than 99.8% availability while rolling out thousands of new VSAT site locations each month. Our SkyEdge II-c, state-of-the-art solution, provides high performance and space segment efficiency. Our legacy product lines are known for their durability and resilience.  We provide advanced on-the- move terminals, including all components such as antennas, BUCs and modems. Our low-profile, satellite communications on-the-move solutions antennas provide reliable broadband communications for commercial and defense applications. Our SSPAs provide good performance, even at the extreme end of temperature and environmental performance specifications. X-Architecture, our new cloud-based distributed architecture, and our Electronically-Steered Array / Phased Array Antenna (ESA/PAA) are our two most recent innovations that, we believe, have positioned us as a leader in providing satellite communications technology. Our research, development and engineering team, comprised of 259 persons, enable us to rapidly develop new features and applications. Moreover, by directly serving end-users through our service organizations, we are able to quickly respond to changing market conditions and maintain our position in the market.

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Global presence and local support. We have sold our products in approximately 90 countries on six continents. Our products and services are used by a large and diverse group of customers including some of the largest enterprises in the world, several government agencies and many rural communities. We have 20 sales and service offices worldwide. Through our network of offices, we are able to maintain a two-tier customer support program offering local support offices and a centralized supply facility.

Complementary business lines for turnkey solutions. Our business divisions are able to provide a full turnkey solution to our customers by integrating a diverse range of value‑added products and services. Our product and service offerings - satellite communications network equipment, small cell solutions, power amplifiers, low-profile satellite communications on-the-move terminals, antennas, installation, operation and maintenance – provide communication services ranging from broadband, Internet, voice, data and video to managed solutions that can be customized and are flexible. Our business model enables us to be attuned to our customers’ needs and to adapt to changing market trends. Our satellite communications -based networks sometimes serve as platforms for the delivery of complete systems, providing versatile solutions for enterprises, government agencies, SMEs, rural communities, SOHOs and consumers.

Diversified revenue streams and customer base. In the year ended December 31, 2016, approximately 77% of our revenues were generated from equipment sales and 23% of our revenues were generated from services. Our equipment sales are generally independent equipment orders which often generate maintenance contracts and additional opportunities for future equipment sales and also include the revenues from the construction phase of large-scale projects. Our service sales are characterized by long-term contracts that provide a recurring revenue base. In the year ended December 31, 2016, our three business divisions, Commercial, Mobility and Services, accounted for 34%, 22% and 44% of our revenues, respectively.

Delivery Capabilities. Over the years we have demonstrated our ability to deploy communication networks in the most remote areas, which are difficult both to reach and service. This experience enhances both our ability to plan and implement sophisticated communication networks in remote areas, as well as in challenging terrain, and our ability to meet technological challenges like a lack of electrical power infrastructure or a lack of any physical infrastructure. Our teams are proficient in delivering solutions in these areas.

Experienced management team. Our management is comprised of an experienced executive team. Both Mr. Dov Baharav, the Chairman of our Board of Directors, and Mr. Yona Ovadia, our Chief Executive Officer, have broad experience in senior executive positions. Mr. Baharav served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. and was President and CEO and a member of the Board of Directors of Amdocs Management Limited, or Amdocs, (NASDAQ: DOX). Prior to joining our Company, Mr. Ovadia served as Group President & Head of Services Group at Amdocs and in various other executive positions.

Our Growth Strategy

Our objective is to leverage our technology and services capabilities in order to:

Become A Key Partner of HTS Satellite Operators – We will continue to serve as a meaningful partner of HTS operators, leveraging our leading technology in the market and our breadth of services to deploy and operate ground segments.

Expand Presence in the IFC Market – We are placing a major focus on developing a new dual band Ka/Ku terminal, as well as leveraging our unique Phased Array antennas, to serve the high growth IFC market.

Fortify our Leadership Position in the 4G/LTE Backhaul Market - We will further leverage our technology, as well as our experience, to serve mobile network operators’ connectivity needs in rural, metro-edge and metro areas.

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Provide Internet Broadband to Rural Areas – We intend to build on our experience in bringing broadband Internet to rural areas in Latin America and identify additional markets to expand into.
Focus on the Chinese Market – We are focused on supporting the growing Chinese market, which encompasses all of the above business drivers in a single territory, with our technology and expertise. China is expected to be at the forefront of next-generation fixed and mobile satellite services, providing consumers, businesses and government organizations throughout the country with valuable high-speed broadband services.

Enhance our Offerings – We intend to enhance our offerings to provide comprehensive end-to-end solutions, based on our products, in support of our customers’ needs for satellite based communications.
Our Businesses in 2016

Commercial Division

Overview

Our Commercial Division provides satellite communications network systems  and associated professional services to satellite and Telcos  worldwide. Our operational experience in deploying large networks together with our global network of local offices enable us to work closely and directly with those providers. We provide equipment and solutions to the commercial, government and consumer markets. We provide solutions tailored to the requirements of individual industries. Based on our open SkyEdge platform, our solutions provide added value to operators through better performance and integration as well as simpler deployment.

We also support satellite networking through professional services, training and a full range of turnkey solutions and outsourced network operations including “Build‑Operate‑Transfer” for networking facilities.

Our SkyEdge product family, including the SkyEdge II and SkyEdge II-c products, allow us to deliver efficient, reliable and affordable broadband connectivity such as Internet, voice, data and video. As a single platform SkyEdge II-c supports multiple applications such as Broadband Access, Enterprise Cellular Backhaul and Mobility.

Our Commercial Division is headquartered in Petah Tikva, Israel and operates through multiple offices worldwide.

Products and Solutions

Broadband Satellite Network System

Our SkyEdge II product family is based on a single hub with multiple VSATs to support a variety of services and applications. The products were designed using advanced technology to enable them to process different types of user traffic such as voice, critical data, Internet traffic and video, to handle each type of traffic in an efficient manner and provide the necessary quality of service for each traffic stream. The SkyEdge II system also includes advanced mechanisms which ensure that the transmissions via the satellite utilize the available satellite bandwidth efficiently and enhance the user experience.

Our SkyEdge II-c system supports large-scale broadband services for both consumer and enterprise applications, including fast web browsing, high-speed trunking, video streaming, Internet Protocol Television, or IPTV, Voice Over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, and other bandwidth-intensive services. The SkyEdge II-c platform supports four VSAT types: Scorpio, Gemini, Capricorn and Taurus . It includes a unified, centralized network management system, or NMS which manages all hub elements at all gateways from a central NOC location. Enhanced FCAPS functions, or fault-management, configuration, accounting, performance, and security, a network management framework created by the International Organization for Standardization and the electronic machine to machine interface enable full visibility, control and seamless integration with the operator’s operations support system/ business support system, or OSS/BSS, environment.

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SkyEdge II-c Scorpio is a cutting-edge, fully integrated Ka-band terminal. Scorpio unifies in a single weatherproof box all VSAT components, including BUC, Low Noise Block (downconverter) or LNB, OrthoMode Transducer, or OMT, feed assembly and a high speed modem/router. A single Ethernet cable connects the outdoor Scorpio to the home network, thus providing a simple demarcation point for improved network diagnostics and increased customer satisfaction.

SkyEdge II-c Gemini is a family of compact high-throughput routers, designed to enable high speed broadband services while meeting cost efficiencies required by residential customers and businesses. Gemini enables fast web browsing, video streaming, IPTV, VoIP, and other bandwidth intensive services. This solution comes in variations for enterprise applications such as retail, banking, automatic teller machines, or ATMs, lotteries and USO/USF government-funded programs aimed to expand broadband connectivity to underserved regions
SkyEdge II-c Capricorn is a family of ultra-high-performance satellite routers that are used for corporate services, 3G/LTE cellular backhauling, IP trunks and mobility services. For IP trunks and mobility, Capricorn delivers acceleration and packet-per-second performance that support hundreds of users per VSAT. For LTE cellular backhauling, Capricorn includes our patented (granted in Japan and patent-pending in other countries) cellular data acceleration technology that enables full LTE speeds of up to 150Mbps for cellular handheld devices. To reach these high return speeds, Capricorn supports both Time Division Multiple Access, or TDMA, and Single Channel Per Carrier, or SCPC, transmission.
SkyEdge II-c Taurus manages the entire in-flight Satellite Communication connectivity with simultaneous support for broadband IFC and Internet Protocol Television, or IPTV and will be a key component of our Ku/Ka aeronautical Satellite Communication solution, as our ultra-high-performance aero-modem manager (MODMAN) for in-flight connectivity. All SkyEdge II-c VSATs are full-featured IP routers, supporting enhanced IP routing features such as DHCP, NAT/PAT and IGMP. Advanced application-based QoS, guarantees the performance of real-time applications such as VoIP and video streaming, while also supporting other data applications. SkyEdge II-c VSATs also support next generation IPv6 networking.
SkyEdge II-c VSATs provide operational simplicity and reduced operational expenditures. They provide simple, Do-It-Yourself, VSAT installation that expedites deployment and reduces costs. The VSAT kit is designed with minimum assembly parts and an easy to point antenna. In addition, our Ka-band transceiver Scorpio terminals and Ka transceivers are equipped with audible indicators to assist in the fine pointing. The VSAT customer premises equipment, or CPE, includes an intuitive graphical user interface that guide the installer step by step through the installation and service activation process.

Commercial Division Solutions

Vertical Solutions

We target specific vertical markets where our products and solutions are most suitable and in which we have multiple references and credibility. These vertical markets include the consumer market, cellular backhaul, oil and gas, banking and finance and rural and e-government markets, among others.

Cellular Small-Cell-over-Satellite Solution

Our CellEdge is an integrated small cell over satellite solution for cost effective cellular connectivity to remote areas on 2G/3G/4G networks. The integrated solution comprises an outdoor small cell that is optimized to provide an enhanced user experience. The satellite backhaul is provided by our SkyEdge II-c VSAT system, which minimizes satellite space segment overheads by applying efficient voice and data compression combined with satellite bandwidth allocation on demand. Because the small cell is lightweight, it can be mounted on a low-cost pole or light-tower. Power transmission is high while power consumption is low. The lack of overhead associated with this solution makes it particularly attractive to network operators and supports the business case for remote connectivity.

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System Integration and Turnkey Implementation

We have expanded our business beyond core VSAT networks to deliver our customers complete and comprehensive solutions to their needs even where VSATs are not the main part of the solution. We see a growth in market demand for vendors capable of fully delivering integrated solutions for interdisciplinary, communication based projects.

In certain other situations we are required to provide our VSAT solution in a turnkey mode where we are responsible for the complete end-to-end solution. In the case of turnkey solutions, and occasionally in projects requiring system integrations, we provide our customers with a full and comprehensive solution including:

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Project management – accompanying the customer through all stages of a project and ensuring that the project objectives are within the predefined scope, time and budget;

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Satellite network design – translating the customer’s requirements into a system to be deployed, performing the sizing and dimensioning of the system and evaluating the available solutions;

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Deployment logistics – transportation and rapid installation of equipment in all of the network sites;

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Implementation and integration – combining our equipment with third party equipment such as solar panel systems and surveillance systems as well as developing tools to allow the customer to monitor and control the system;

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Operational services – providing professional services, program management, network operations and field services; and

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Maintenance and support – providing 24/7 helpdesk services, on-site technician support and equipment repairs and updates.
Manufacturing, Customer Support and Warranty

Our products are designed and tested at our facilities in Israel as well as our four other R&D facilities around the world. We outsource a significant portion of the VSAT manufacturing of our products to third parties. We also work with third‑party vendors for the development and manufacture of components integrated into our products, as well as for assembly of components for our products.

We offer a customer care program for our VSAT products, which we refer to as SatCare, and professional services programs that improve customer network availability through ongoing support and maintenance cycles.

As part of our professional services, we provide:

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Outsourced operations such as VSAT installation, service commissioning and hub operations;

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Proactive troubleshooting, such as periodic network analysis, to identify symptoms in advance; and

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Training and certification to ensure customers and local installers are proficient in VSAT operation.

We typically provide a one-year warranty to our customers as part of our standard contract.

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Marketing and Sales

We use both direct and indirect sales channels to market our products, solutions and services. Our Commercial Division has organized its marketing activities by geographic areas, with groups or subsidiaries covering most regions of the world. Our sales teams are comprised of account managers and sales engineers who establish account relationships and determine technical and business requirements for the customer’s network. These teams also support the other distribution channels with advanced technical capabilities and application experience. Sales cycles in the VSAT network market vary significantly, with some sales requiring 18 months and even more, from an initial lead through signing of the contract, while sales stemming from an immediate need for product delivery can be completed within two to three months. The sales process includes gaining an understanding of customer needs, several network design iterations and network demonstrations.

Customers and Markets

We provide our Satellite Communication solutions to satellite operators, governments, system integrators, telecommunication companies and MNOs, satellite communication providers, ISPs, and homeland security and defense agencies. Our customers benefit from:
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a single accountable partner for all of their satellite communication network needs;
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high credibility and experience;
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local presence and partnerships;
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industry-leading technology and system integration;
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flexibility and customization; and
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proven ability to deliver innovative end-to-end solutions.

We sell and distribute our products and provide services internationally, particularly in Latin America, Asia, Asia Pacific, the U.S., Africa, CIS (Russian Commonwealth) and Europe.

We sell VSAT communications networks and solutions primarily to service providers that mostly serve the enterprise consumer, cellular backhauling, and mobility market. We have more than 200 such customers worldwide.

Enterprise and service provider customers use our networks for Internet access, broadband data, voice and video connectivity and for applications such as credit card authorizations, online banking, corporate intranet, interactive distance learning, lottery transactions, retail point‑of‑sale, inventory control and supervisory control and data acquisition, or SCADA, services.

Service providers serving the rural communications market are typically public telephony and Internet operators providing telephony and Internet services through public call offices, telecenters, Internet cafes or pay phones. Some of the rural communication projects are for government customers. Examples of our rural telecom customers include Telefonica in Peru, Entel in Bolivia and SCT in Mexico.

Service providers for the consumer market are typically Telcos planning to expand Internet service to the consumer markets.

Our VSAT networks also provide underserved areas with a high-speed Internet connection similar to DSL service provided to residential users. Among such customers are Optus in Australia, Hispasat in Spain and SBBS in several countries in Europe.

Public Rural Telecom Services :

In a large number of remote and rural areas, primarily in developing countries, there is limited or no telephone or Internet service, due to inadequate terrestrial telecommunications infrastructure. In these areas, VSAT networks utilize existing satellites to rapidly provide high-quality, cost-effective telecommunications solutions. In contrast to terrestrial networks, VSAT networks are simple to reconfigure or expand, relatively immune to difficulties of topography and can be situated almost anywhere. Additionally, VSATs can be installed and connected to a network quickly without the need to rely on local infrastructure. For example, some of our VSATs are powered by solar energy where there is no existing power infrastructure. Our VSATs provide reliable service, seldom require maintenance and, when necessary, repair is relatively simple.

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As a result of the above advantages, there is a demand for government‑sponsored, VSAT-based bundled services of fixed telephony and Internet access. Many of these government‑funded projects have been expanded to provide not only telephony services and Internet access, but to also provide tele-centers that can serve the local population. These tele-centers include computers, printers, fax machines, photocopiers and TVs for educational programs. Additional revenue may be received, both in the form of subsidies and direct revenues from the users, when these additional services are provided.

VSAT Services to Telecom Operators :

In some markets, existing telecom operators are mandated by the government to provide universal services. Providing these services in remote areas is a challenge to these operators, and they sometimes outsource these services to rural telecom service providers. The exact nature of these outsourcing projects varies, but they are typically a “Build‑Transfer” model or a “Build‑Operate‑Transfer” model. Cable & Wireless in Panama was our first “Build‑Operate‑Transfer” customer.

Mobility Division

We provide satellite communication on the move systems with solutions for land, sea and air, while placing major focus on IFC. The division’s portfolio includes a cloud based VSAT network platform, high-speed modems, high performance on-the-move antennas and high efficiency, high power SSPAs and BUCs.

SkyEdge Satellite Network System

We utilize our SkyEdge product family, including the SkyEdge II-c, to deliver efficient, reliable and affordable broadband connectivity such as Internet, voice, data and video in travelling environments. Our SkyEdge II product family is based on a single hub with multiple VSATs to support a variety of services and applications, utilizing advanced mechanisms for utilizing available satellite bandwidth efficiently. The SkyEdge II-c system supports bandwidth-intensive services with a network management system that manages all hub elements at all gateways from a central NOC location.

SkyEdge II-c Taurus

Our SkyEdge II-c Taurus manages in-flight satellite communication connectivity with simultaneous support for broadband IFC and IPTV and will be a key component of our Ku/Ka aeronautical Satellite Communication solution.

Raysat Low-Profile Satellite Communication on the Move Antenna Systems

Our RaySat series consists of low-profile, in-motion, two-way antennas for satellite communication on the move. Compact, aerodynamic and vehicle-mounted, RaySat antennas deliver mission-critical data, voice and video for secure, real-time information flow.

Our RaySat products operate in Ku, Ka and X bands and are ideal for both civilian and military satellite communication on the move applications such as:

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Military - strategic military advantage by supporting the transfer of real-time intelligence while on-the-move with a small, low profile, hard to track antenna;

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Digital satellite news gathering – always on, no set up time, real-time streaming video;

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First responders - supports vehicles’ mobility, agility and stability required for teams to be the first to reach the scene; and

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Search and exploration teams, close-to-shore vessels etc.
A full suite of two-way, low-profile antennas is available with multiple onboard tracking sensors, enabling accurate tracking, short initial acquisition and instantaneous reacquisition.

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RaySat antenna products are designed, manufactured and assembled at our facilities in Bulgaria.

Products

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RaySat SR300 (X, Ka, Ku) antennas feature an advanced flat-panel array which covers both the Rx and Tx. Minimal size, weight and power (SWaP) permit installation on small vehicles or marine vessels. The antenna’s light weight ensures easy and safe mounting for quick and easy operation by non-technical personnel.

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RaySat ER5000 (Ka, Ku) has a sturdy structure and compact size allowing for implementation on a wide range of vehicles. ER5000 antennas maximize throughput using high-efficiency waveguide panel technology. The low profile, ruggedized two-way antenna system enables real-time Ka- and Ku-band satellite communications for video, voice and data transfer.

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RaySat ER7000 maximizes throughput using high-efficiency waveguide panel technology and the antenna’s light weight ensures easy and safe vehicle mounting. It has been widely deployed worldwide on trains and large vehicles.

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RaySat ER6000 is a high capacity versatile dual-band airborne satellite two-way antenna for IFC that is capable of being switched between Ka and Ku bands during flight, and can operate in either band as required. This solution enables aeronautical real-time broadband satellite communications for video, voice and data. The antenna is designed to maximize throughput by using high-efficiency waveguide panel technology. Its low profile and light weight will permit easy and safe mounting on aircraft. The rugged antenna structure will be particularly suited for operation in challenging environments, providing reliable, continuous, in-flight broadband communications.

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Electronically-Steered-Array, Phased-Array Antenna (ESA/PAA) (Ka, Ku) is an ultra-slim (low-profile) antenna with no moving parts that will electronically steer the transmission and reception beams towards the satellite, allowing operation even around the equator. The antenna design will be highly scalable, with array dimensions that can be changed to optimally match specific gain requirements, making it suitable for a wide range of mobile platforms (aerial, land and maritime) and various throughput performance needs. Owing to its scalability and ultra-low profile, the antenna will be particularly suited to supporting mobile connectivity for platforms that are constrained by size and weight.

Wavestream

Wavestream, founded in 2001, was acquired by us in November 2010. It designs and manufactures next generation solid-state power amplifiers for mission-critical defense and broadcast satellite communications systems. Wavestream’s innovative, patented Spatial AdvantEdge™ technology provides higher output power, greater reliability and lower energy usage in more compact packages than traditional amplifier solutions. Our Wavestream product line meets the growing demand for greater efficiency and significant lifecycle cost reductions for satellite communications systems worldwide.

Wavestream’s headquarters, research and development, engineering and manufacturing facilities are located in San Dimas, California, with an additional research and development center in Singapore. Our BUCs are manufactured in our San Dimas facility.

Our Wavestream product line addresses the following applications and markets:

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Defense Communications - satellite-based airborne and highly secured point-to-point.  This market is typically categorized by customers requiring high quality products – at times for mission critical communications in extreme environmental conditions. The satellite terminals ( e.g ., VSAT, Single Channel Per Carrier, or SCPC) are usually provided to the defense agencies via system integrators, and not directly from the power amplifier suppliers;

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Government - public safety, emergency response and disaster recovery.  Similar to the market for defense agencies, though usually less demanding in terms of environmental conditions, these terminals are provided to various local, state and federal agencies that need to manage emergency communications. The satellite terminals (e.g., VSAT, SCPC) are usually provided via system integrators or service providers and not directly from the power amplifier suppliers;

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Commercial terminals - A high power amplifier is used with high-end VSAT terminals for various applications where there is the requirement to transmit large amounts of data. Examples include airborne terminals in commercial airplanes for Internet access;

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Commercial broadcast - Broadcast providers and teleport operators require high power amplifiers in order to transmit large carriers, such as for TV broadcast, multicast of video and high-speed IP connectivity.

Our Wavestream product line customers include General Dynamics, Telecommunications Systems (TCS), L-3, Honeywell, Tecom and AeroSat Corporation.

Our Wavestream series consists of:

RF amplifiers, BUCs and transceivers

RF amplifiers, BUCs and transceivers that use solid-state sources to produce high power at microwave and millimeter-wave frequencies. Our patented Spatial A dvantEdge™ technology allows us to create more compact product packages that provide higher power, greater reliability and improved efficiency for any mission-critical applications. The spatially power combined amplifier employs a different technique for combining the transistor outputs than traditional Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit, or MMIC, based amplifiers. Rather than combining in multiple steps, increasing loss and size with each combining stage, all transistor outputs are combined in a single step. Many amplifying elements synchronously amplify the input signal, and their outputs are combined in free space for very high combining efficiency.

Our patented technology allows us to create amplifiers and BUCs with high output power in more compact product packages that generate less heat, use less energy, and reduce lifecycle costs. Our products help customers meet the stringent power requirements for mission-critical communications system. We perform full factory acceptance testing on every unit we manufacture and deliver, ensuring each product has guaranteed performance over the full temperature range and over extended frequency bands.

We believe that we have established a leadership position with our compact, highly efficient SSPAs with a field-proven family of Ka, Ku, X and C-band products.  Our Wavestream line of products are designed and tested to meet strenuous requirements for temperature, shock and vibration, over the full range of frequency and at the extremes of environmental performance specifications.  Our field-proven technology and reputation for innovation and quality drive solutions for multiple applications targeting military, aerospace, commercial and broadcast satellite systems.

Wavestream AeroStream™

The Wavestream AeroStream™ is a state-of-the-art transceiver for challenging inflight satellite communications environments. AeroStream products meet RTCA/DO-160G, Boeing, Airbus and ARINC specifications for commercial aircraft as well as MIL-STD requirements for military aircraft. The AeroStream™ transceiver is in certification process with the FAA. AeroStream incorporates Wavestream’s next generation Spatial AdvantEdge™ technology to provide high power output with greater efficiency and reliability for airborne satellite communications applications. The AeroStream transceiver offers all necessary interfaces to work seamlessly with leading modems and Antenna Control Units, or ACUs, to provide a convenient turnkey solution.

Integrated Solutions

We offer fully integrated solutions based on our own technology and components. Our integrated solutions feature the highest standards of reliability and efficiency combining our own VSAT/modems, antennas and BUCs. We leverage our innovative and industry-leading technological capabilities from R&D centers around the world.

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We provide an integrated quick-deploy mobile Satellite Communication solution for net-centric emergency and battle situations. We offer both commercial and military manpack terminals, named SatRanger and SatTrooper, respectively. These lightweight, portable solutions provide data, video and telephony under the toughest environmental and battle conditions. The small-size antenna can be set up in just a few minutes with automatic pointing and does not require any tools for assembly. The manpacks are highly integrated with our operationally proven components: antennas, built-in modems, BUCs and LNBs, all incorporated into one ruggedized enclosure. Low power consumption enables long hours of battery operation. The manpacks provide high availability, secure communications and excellent performance in extremely low signal to noise ratio conditions.

Our BlackRay Satellite Communication terminals are specially designed for UAV and USV applications.  These terminals have been used worldwide in commercial and military applications, which require high-throughput communications and minimal size, weight, and power. The system’s miniscule dimensions allow Beyond-Line-of-Sight (BLoS) operations for even the smallest platforms, in harsh weather conditions, while supporting video and data downlink and uplink applications. These highly integrated terminals feature best-of-breed antenna, modem and BUC technologies developed and manufactured by us. Customized solutions of the BlackRay platform are also available for specific customer platforms and needs.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles - Our BlackRay 71 and parabolic systems serve the critical need to exploit the full capabilities of an aircraft’s operational range. As one of the industry’s smallest and most compact aerial solutions in its category, our integrated approach can dramatically increase mission effectiveness. We offer a full range of Satellite Communication systems for Group 3, 4 and 5 UAVs, operating in Ku-, Ka- and X- band, and available in different sizes and bit rates.

Unmanned Surface Vehicles - Our BlackRay Maritime 300 is a compact system that can be quickly implemented to deliver high-throughput communication, even for small USVs. The BlackRay Maritime 300 has been designed to meet minimal size, weight and power requirements and can transmit more than 2Mbps for IP-based video or data BLoS applications. This maritime terminal delivers spectrum-efficient IP connectivity, adaptive in real time to varying link conditions.

Services Division

Gilat Peru & Colombia

We are a service provider for public telephony and broadband services in rural areas in Peru and Colombia, using our hubs, satellite network equipment and terrestrial technologies (typically, fiber-optic and wireless technologies). We are generally engaged through BOT contracts subsidized by the government. Accordingly, we build the infrastructure, act as a licensed telecommunications operator for a defined period and then transfer the network to the customer. We also build telecommunication infrastructure typically using fiber-optic and wireless technologies for broadband connectivity and transfer them to government upon completion.

Our services include operating public phones (primarily utilizing prepaid cards) and providing broadband services to public entities, such as schools, health centers and police stations. In addition, we use our infrastructure to provide services to other local operators, enterprise, SME, SOHO and residential customers as well as governmental entities, such as Poder Judicial Del Peru and the Peruvian national bank, Banco de la Nacion. We also provide satellite telecommunication equipment to local operators and to governmental entities, such as the Ministry of Education.

Our subsidiaries have local offices in Lima, Peru and Bogota, Colombia.

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Services and Solutions

Since our first rural telephony project for FITEL in Peru in 1998, we have been awarded more than half of the rural communications projects launched by the Peruvian government. Overall, we operate approximately 7,500 telephony sites in Peru, and approximately 850 Internet services sites, and have been awarded large-scale government contracts to build and operate, or to build, operate and transfer, these networks. Additionally, we have developed services for financial sector customers, such as Banco de la Nacion, providing Internet, data and telephony services. Our rural network serves more than six million people.

In December 2013, we were awarded a contract from the Peruvian government (through FITEL) for the deployment and operation of a wireless transport and distribution network in the northern Amazonas region of Peru. The contract, worth $30 million, is for construction of the network, its operation for 10 years and the provision of services to 88 villages along the network’s path. This contract was expanded in 2014 by approximately $6 million for 24 additional localities along the Amazonas River. It was successfully constructed, approved by FITEL and has entered the operational phase. In 2015, Gilat Peru was awarded four Regional FITEL Projects by the Peruvian government (through FITEL), with expected revenues of $393 million over approximately 13 years for the construction of networks, operation of the networks for a defined period and their transfer to the government.  Pursuant to the Regional FITEL Projects awarded in March 2015, we are building fiber-optic transport networks and will operate them for up to one year before transferring them to the Peruvian government. Under projects awarded in December 2015, we will transfer the transport networks that we build to the Peruvian government immediately upon completion. Additionally, we are constructing access networks, based on wireless technologies that we will operate for 10 years, prior to transferring them to the Peruvian government. We expect to generate additional revenues by enabling cellular carriers to acquire capacity over these networks to address the growing need for voice, data, and internet in these regions, as well as additional services to regional governments served in those projects.

Gilat started operations in Colombia in 1999 by winning the government’s Compartel I project focused on rural telephony. This project was followed by several projects awarded by the Colombian government to us, under which Gilat Colombia operated large networks of thousands of rural sites spread throughout the country. The services for those rural sites included broadband internet connectivity, telephony, Internet, fax and other services. In December 2013, we were awarded a project, as part of the Kioscos Digitales project initiated by the Colombian Ministry of Information Technologies and Communications, or the Ministry of ITC, in the aggregate amount of 189 billion Colombian Pesos (approximately $63 million, based on the representative rate of exchange published as of December 31, 2016. Under this project, we provide Internet/telephony connectivity for assimilation of educational and small communities programs in 1903 Kioscos sites in rural areas of the country. This project is expected to end in the first quarter of 2018.  During 2015, we recorded impairment of long lived assets of $10.1 million related to the Kioscos Digitales project. For more information, see ITEM 5.A - “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects - Operating Results - Impairment of Intangible Assets and Long-Lived Assets”.
Enterprise and Government Agencies

We provide private network equipment and related services to selected enterprises and government agencies. These customers contract directly with Gilat Peru for VSAT equipment and associated network services to be deployed at customer locations, typically for a contract term of three to five years. We also resell managed terrestrial connectivity equipment and services from facilities‑based Local Exchange Carrier partners.  One such customer is Banco de la Nacion in Peru.

Customer Support Operations

We complement our services with back office support in Peru and Colombia for subsidized telephony and Internet networks as well as for private Internet, data and telephony clients including a call center, network operations center, field service maintenance and a pre-paid calling card platform and distribution channels.

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Sales and Marketing

We use direct and indirect sales channels to market our equipment and related services. Our sales team of account managers and sales engineers are the primary account interfaces and work to establish account relationships and determine technical and business demands.

Competition

The telecommunications industry operates in a competitive, rapidly changing market. In some cases, our competitors can also be our customers or partners. Accordingly, maintaining an open and cooperative relationship is important.

In the equipment market, we face competition from other providers of satellite communications systems, products and services, such as Hughes, ViaSat, iDirect, Newtec and a few other smaller providers.

We compete in some HTS markets with competitors such as ViaSat and HNS that have launched high throughput satellites. Although we have entered the HTS market with competitive technology, we continue to expect competition in this market to increase.

Due to the nature of the satellite solution, the VSAT technology is, at times, commercially tied to the satellite technology itself, and, consequently, there may be circumstances where it is difficult for competitors to compete with an incumbent VSAT vendor using the particular satellite.

Our low-profile in-motion antennas compete with products from competitors such as Cobham, ERA, Panasonic, Orbit, Thinkom, Wiworld, Tracstar and L-3. This market is nascent, and not as mature as the satellite communications or satellite services markets.

Our primary competitors with respect to our BUCs and other Wavestream products are Comtech Xicom Technology, Inc., CPI Satcom (which acquired Codan Satcom in 2012), General Dynamics Satcom Technologies, Paradise Datacom and Mission Microwave Technologies.

In Peru and Colombia, where we primarily operate public rural telecom services, we typically encounter competition on bids for projects subsidized by the government or other public entities from various service providers, system integrators and consortiums. Some of these competitors offer solutions based on satellite communications technology and some on alternate technologies (typically fiber-optic or wireless).  As operators that offer terrestrial or cellular networks expand their reach to certain Peru and Colombia regions, they compete with our satellite communications solutions. Among such competitors are Telefonica del Peru, Axesat S.A., Skynet Colombia S.A. and Newcom International (acquired by Speedcast).

Geographic Distribution of Our Business

The following table sets forth our revenues from continued operations by geographic area for the periods indicated below as a percent of our total sales:

Years Ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
Latin America
51
%
51
%
47
%
North America
20
%
14
%
18
%
APAC
17
%
24
%
22
%
EMEA
12
%
11
%
13
%
Total
100
%
100
%
100
%

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C.
Organizational Structure
Significant Subsidiaries
Country/State of Incorporation
% ownership
1. Gilat Satellite Networks (Holland) B.V.
Netherlands
100
%
2. Gilat Colombia S.A. E.S.P
Colombia
100
%
3. Gilat to Home Peru S.A
Peru
100
%
4. Gilat do Brazil Ltda.
Brazil
100
%
5. Gilat Satellite Networks (Mexico) S.A. de C.V.
Mexico
100
%
6. Wavestream Corporation
Delaware
100
%
7. Gilat Networks Peru S.A
Peru
100
%
8. Gilat Australia Pty Ltd.
Australia
100
%
9. Gilat Satellite Networks (Eurasia) Limited
Russia
100
%
10. Gilat Satellite Networks MDC (Moldova)
Moldova
100
%
11. Raysat Bulgaria EOOD
Bulgaria
100
%
12. Gilat Satellite Communication Technology (Beijing) Ltd.
China
100
%
D.
Property, Plants and Equipment

Our headquarters are located in a modern office park which we own in Petah Tikva, Israel. This facility consists of approximately 380,000 square feet, out of which approximately 184,328 square feet are currently used by us and the remainder is subleased or offered for sublease to third parties.

We have NOCs in Australia, Peru and Colombia from which we perform network services and customer support functions.

We own facilities on approximately 140,400 square feet of land in Backnang, Germany.  Since May, 2002, these facilities are leased to a third party, which lease expires on December 31, 2025.  We own approximately 13,800 square feet of research and development facilities and rent approximately 12,600 square feet of manufacturing facilities in Sofia, Bulgaria, which lease will expire on May 31, 2018, and rent approximately 6,500 square feet in Moldova for research and development activities.  Our Wavestream subsidiary currently occupies approximately 32,500 square feet of facilities for office space, research and development and manufacturing in San Dimas, California under a lease, currently in the signing process, which will expire on March 31, 2019 and 3,838 square feet under a lease in Singapore, which will expire on August 24, 2019.

We also maintain facilities in Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, China, Peru and Australia, along with representative offices in Bangkok (Thailand), New Delhi (India), Almaty (Kazakhstan), Jakarta (Indonesia), Moscow (Russia) and small facilities in other locations throughout the world.

We consider our current office space sufficient to meet our anticipated needs for the foreseeable future and suitable for the conduct of our business.
ITEM 4A:       UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

There are no unresolved staff comments.

ITEM 5:          OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

A.
Operating Results
The following discussion of our results of operations should be read together with our audited consolidated financial statements and the related notes, which appear elsewhere in this annual report.  The following discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our current plans, estimates and beliefs and involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include those discussed below and elsewhere in this annual report.

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Introduction

We are a global provider of satellite-based broadband communications. We design and manufacture ground segment equipment, and provide comprehensive solutions and end-to-end services, powered by our e technology. Our portfolio comprises a cloud based satellite network platform, VSATs, amplifiers, high-speed modems, on-the-move antennas and high power SSPAs and BUCs. Our solutions support multiple applications with a full portfolio of products to address key applications including broadband access, cellular backhaul, enterprise, in-flight connectivity, maritime, trains, defense and public safety, all while meeting stringent service level requirements. We also provide connectivity services, internet access and telephony, to enterprise, government and residential customers in Peru and Colombia utilizing both our own networks, and also other networks that we install, mainly based on BOT contracts. We also provide managed network services over VSAT networks owned by others.

We have a large installed base and have shipped more than 1.5 million satellite terminals to customers in approximately 90 countries on six continents since 1989. We have twenty sales and support offices worldwide, three NOCs and five R&D centers. Our products are primarily sold to communication service providers and operators that use satellite communications to serve enterprise, government and residential users. We also provide services directly to end‑users in certain countries.

We operate three business divisions, comprised of our Commercial, Mobility and Services divisions:

·
Commercial Division – provides VSAT advanced satellite networks, fixed satellite communication products systems, cellular backhaul and small cell solutions and services and comprehensive turnkey solutions. Our customers are service providers, satellite operators, MNOs, Telcos and large enterprises worldwide. We focus on HTS opportunities worldwide and are driving meaningful partnerships with satellite operators to leverage our technology and breadth of services to deploy and operate the ground segment.

·
Mobility Division – provides advanced satellite communication on the move systems, including airborne, maritime and ground-mobile satellite systems and solutions.  Our customers are service providers, system integrators, defense and homeland security organizations, as well as to other commercial entities worldwide. The division provides solutions on land, sea and air, while placing major focus on the high-growth IFC market. The division’s portfolio includes high-speed modems, high performance on-the-move antennas and high efficiency, high power SSPAs and BUCs.

·
Services Division – provides managed network and services for rural broadband access via our subsidiaries in Peru and Colombia. Our connectivity solutions have been implemented in large and national scale projects. Our terrestrial and satellite networks provide Internet and telephony services to thousands of rural communities and schools. Our turnkey solutions start with supplying network infrastructure, continue through ensuring high-quality, reliable connectivity and include full network support and maintenance, as well as support for applications that run on the installed network.

Financial Statements in U.S. Dollars

The currency of the primary economic environment in which most of our operations are conducted is the U.S. dollar and, therefore, we use the U.S. dollar as our functional and reporting currency. Transactions and balances originally denominated in U.S. dollars are presented at their original amounts. Gains and losses arising from non-U.S. dollar transactions and balances are included in the consolidated statements of operations. The financial statements of certain foreign subsidiaries, whose functional currency has been determined to be their local currency, have been translated into U.S. dollars. The assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries have been translated using the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Statements of operations amounts have been translated using specific rates. The resulting translation adjustments are reported as a component of shareholders’ equity in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).

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Explanation of Key Income Statement Items
Revenues

We generate revenues mainly from the sale of products, including construction of networks, from services for satellite-based communications networks and from providing connectivity services, Internet access and telephony, to enterprise, government and residential customers in Peru and Colombia under large-scale contracts that utilize both our own networks and also other networks that we install, mainly based on BOT contracts. These large‑ scale contracts sometimes involve the installation of thousands of VSATs or massive fiber-optic transport and access networks . Sale of products includes principally the sale of VSATs, hubs, SSPAs, low-profile antennas and on-the-Move / on-the-Pause terminals and the construction phase of large-scale projects. Service revenues include access to and communication via satellites, or space segment, installation of network equipment, telephone services, Internet services, consulting, on-line network monitoring, network maintenance and repair services. We sell our products primarily through our direct sales force and indirectly through resellers or system integrators. Sales consummated by our sales force and sales to resellers or system integrators are considered sales to end-users.

In 2016 and 2015, our Services Division customer, FITEL, accounted for 34% and 11% of our revenues, respectively . In 2014, we did not have any customer that accounted for more than 10% of our revenues

Costs and Operating Expenses

Cost of revenues, for both products and services, includes the cost of system design, equipment, satellite capacity, salaries and related costs, allocated overhead costs, depreciation, customer service, interconnection charges and third party maintenance and installation.

Our research and development expenses, net of grants received, consist of salaries and related costs, raw materials, subcontractor expenses, related depreciation costs and overhead allocated to research and development activities.

Our selling and marketing expenses consist primarily of salaries and related costs commissions earned by sales and marketing personnel, trade show expenses, promotional expenses and overhead costs allocated to selling and marketing activities, as well as depreciation expenses and travel costs.
Our general and administrative expenses consist primarily of salaries and related costs, allocated overhead costs, office supplies and administrative costs, bad debts, fees and expenses of our directors, depreciation, and professional service fees, including legal, insurance and audit fees.
Our operating results are significantly affected by, among other things, the timing of contract awards and the performance of agreements. As a result, our revenues and income (loss) may fluctuate substantially from quarter to quarter, and we believe that comparisons over longer periods of time may be more meaningful. The nature of certain of our expenses is mainly fixed or partially fixed and any fluctuation in revenues will generate a significant variation in gross profit and net income (loss)

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The preparation of the financial information in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates, mainly related to trade receivables, inventories, deferred charges, long-lived assets, intangibles and goodwill, revenues, stock based compensation relating to options and contingencies. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

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We believe the following critical accounting policies affect our more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of the financial information included in this annual report.

Consolidation. Our consolidated financial statements include the accounts of our company and those of our subsidiaries, in which we have a controlling voting interest, as well as entities consolidated under the Variable Interest Entities, or VIEs, provisions of ASC 810, “Consolidation” , or ASC 810. Inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated upon consolidation.

Most of the activity of Gilat Colombia consists of operating subsidized projects for the Ministry of ITC, through its “Dirección de Conectividad”, or DirCon, (formerly known as Compartel Program).  The first projects were originally awarded to our Colombian subsidiaries in 1999 and 2002 and were extended several times. An additional project was awarded to us in 2011 and was completed in December 2013. Another project was awarded to us by the Ministry of ITC in 2013, which is ongoing and scheduled to be completed in 2018.

As required in the bid documents for the Ministry of ITC projects, we established trusts, or the Trusts, and entered into a governing trust agreement for each project, or collectively the Trust Agreements. The Trusts were established for the purpose of holding the network equipment, processing payments to subcontractors, and holding the funds received through the subsidy from the government until they are released in accordance with the terms of the subsidy and paid to us. The Trusts are a mechanism to allow the government to review amounts to be paid with the subsidy and to verify that such funds are used in accordance with the transaction documents and the terms of the subsidy. We generate revenues both from the subsidy, as well as from the use of the network that we operate.

The Trusts are considered VIEs and we are identified as the primary beneficiary of the Trusts. Under ASC 810, we perform ongoing assessments of whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE. As our assessment provides that we have the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impacts the VIE’s activities (we are responsible for establishing and operating the networks), the obligation to absorb losses of the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE and the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE economic performance, we therefore concluded that we are the primary beneficiary of the Trusts. As such, the Trusts were consolidated in our financial statements since their inception.

The cash held by the Trusts is consolidated within our financial statements and classified as “Restricted cash held by trustees”. The advances from customers received by the Trusts are consolidated within our financial statements and classified as “Advances from customers held by trustees”.

Revenues. Revenues from product sales are recognized in accordance with ASC 605-10, “Revenue recognition” and with ASC 605-25 “Multiple-Element Arrangements” (“ASC 605”), when delivery has occurred, persuasive evidence of an agreement exists, the vendor’s fee is fixed or determinable, no further obligation exists and collectability is probable. When significant acceptance provision is included in the arrangement, revenues are deferred until the acceptance occurs. Generally, we do not grant rights of return. Service revenues are recognized ratably over the period of the contract or as services are performed, as applicable.

When a sales arrangement contains multiple elements, such as equipment and services, we allocate revenues to each element based on a selling price hierarchy. The selling price for a deliverable is based on its vendor specific objective evidence , or VSOE , if available, third party evidence , or TPE , if VSOE is not available, or estimated selling price , or ESP , if neither VSOE nor TPE is available. In multiple element arrangements, revenues are allocated to each separate unit of accounting for each of the deliverables using the relative selling prices of each of the deliverables in the arrangement based on the aforementioned selling price hierarchy. Where VSOE or TPE does not exist we establish ESP, based on our management judgment, considering internal factors such as margin objectives, pricing practices and historical sales.
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Revenue from products under sales-type-lease contracts are recognized in accordance with ASC 840 “Leases” , or ASC 840, upon installation or upon shipment, in cases where the customer obtains its own or other’s installation services. The net investments in sales-type-leases are discounted at the interest rates implicit in the leases. The present values of payments due under sales-type-lease contracts are recorded as revenues at the time of shipment or installation, as appropriate. Future interest income is deferred and recognized over the related lease term as financial income.

Revenue from products and services under operating leases of equipment are recognized ratably over the lease period, in accordance with ASC 840.

Revenues from contracts in which we provide construction or production of products (“Production-Type Contracts”) which are significantly customized to the buyer’s specifications are recognized in accordance with ASC 605-35, “Construction-Type and Production-Type Contracts”. In Production-Type Contracts under which we produce units of a basic product in a continuous or sequential production process, we recognize revenues based on the units-of-delivery method, recognizing revenue for each unit on the date that unit is delivered. In other Production-Type Contracts, which require significant construction and customization to the customer’s specifications, we recognize revenues using the percentage-of-completion method of accounting based on the input measure by using the ratio of costs related to construction performance incurred to the total estimated amount of such costs. The amount of revenue recognized is based on the total fees under the arrangement and the percentage of completion achieved. Provisions for estimated losses on uncompleted contracts, if any, are made in the period in which such losses are first determined, in the amount of the estimated loss on the entire contact.

Deferred revenue and advances from customers represent amounts received by our company when the criteria for revenue recognition as described above are not met and are included in “Other current liabilities” and “Other long-term liabilities”, as appropriate. When deferred revenue is recognized as revenue, the associated deferred costs are also recognized as cost of sales .

Income Taxes. We are subject to income taxation in the United States, Israel and numerous other jurisdictions. Determining our provision for income taxes requires significant management judgment. In addition, our provision for income taxes could be adversely affected by many factors, including, among other things, changes to our operating structure, changes in the amounts of earnings in jurisdictions with different statutory tax rates, changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities and changes in tax laws. We are subject to ongoing tax examinations in various jurisdictions. Tax authorities may disagree with our intercompany charges, cross-jurisdictional transfer pricing or other matters and assess additional taxes. While we regularly evaluate the likely outcomes of these examinations to determine the adequacy of our provision for income taxes, there can be no assurance that the outcomes of such examinations will not have a material impact on our results of operations and cash flows. In addition, we may be audited in various jurisdictions, and such jurisdictions may assess additional taxes against us. Although we believe our tax estimates are reasonable, the final determination of any tax audits or litigation could be materially different from our historical tax provisions and accruals, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or cash flows in the period or periods for which a determination is made.
Significant judgment is required to determine the recognition and measurement attributes prescribed in Accounting Standards Codification, (“ASC 740-10-25”). In addition, ASC 740-10-25 applies to all income tax positions, including the potential recovery of previously paid taxes, which if settled unfavorably could adversely impact our provision for income taxes. Further, as a result of certain of our ongoing employment and capital investment actions and commitments, our income in certain countries is subject to reduced tax rates. Our failure to meet these commitments could adversely impact our provision for income taxes. In addition, we are subject to the continuous examination of our income tax returns by Israeli, U.S. and other tax authorities. We regularly assess the likelihood of adverse outcomes resulting from these examinations to determine the adequacy of our provision for income taxes. There can be no assurance that the outcomes from these continuous examinations will not have an adverse effect on our results of operations.
Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts. We are required to estimate our ability to collect our trade receivables. A considerable amount of judgment is required in assessing their ultimate realization. We provided allowances for receivables relating to customers that were specifically identified by our management as having difficulties paying their respective receivables. If the financial condition of our customers deteriorates, resulting in their inability to make payments, additional allowances may be required. These estimates are based on historical bad debt experience and other known factors pertaining to these customers . If the historical data we used to determine these estimates does not properly reflect future realization, additional allowances may be required.

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Inventory Valuation. We are required to state our inventories at the lower of cost or market value. At each balance sheet date, we evaluate our inventory balance for excess quantities and obsolescence. This evaluation includes an analysis of sales levels by product and projections of future demand. We write-off inventories that are considered obsolete. Remaining inventory balances are adjusted to the lower of cost or market value. If future demand for our old or new products or market conditions is less favorable than our projections, inventory write-offs may be required and would be reflected in cost of revenues for such period.

Impairment of Intangible Assets and Long-Lived Assets. We periodically evaluate our intangible assets and long-lived assets (mainly property and equipment) in all of our reporting units for potential impairment indicators in accordance with ASC 360, “Property, Plant and Equipment”, or “ASC 360”.  Our judgments regarding the existence of impairment indicators are based on legal factors, market conditions, operational performance and prospects of our acquired businesses and investments. Our long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of the assets to the future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the assets. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. In measuring the recoverability of assets, we are required to make estimates and judgments in assessing our future cash flows which derive from the estimated useful life of our current primary assets, and compare that with the carrying amount of the assets. Additional significant estimates used by management in the methodologies employed to assess the recoverability of our long-lived assets include estimates of future short-term and long-term growth rates, useful lives of assets, market acceptance of products and services, our success in winning bids and other judgmental assumptions, which are also affected by factors detailed in our risk factors section in this annual report.

During 2015, we encountered higher than expected expenses related to our project in Colombia, which resulted in operating and cash flow losses from this project. We considered these losses, combined with our projections for continuing losses from this project, as indicators of potential impairment of Gilat Colombia’s long lived assets and led us to evaluate the recoverability of those assets based on the future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the assets. Following such evaluation, we came to the conclusion that the long-lived assets are not recoverable and impairment loss was calculated based on the excess of the carrying amount of the long-lived assets over the long-lived assets fair value. The $10.1 million impairment loss was recorded as part of “Impairment of long lived assets” in our statement of operations in the consolidated financial statements included in this annual report.

During 2016 and 2014, no impairment losses of long-lived assets were identified. Future events could cause us to conclude that impairment indicators exist, and that additional long-lived assets and intangible assets associated with our acquired businesses are impaired. Any resulting impairment loss could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

Goodwill . Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price in a business combination over the fair value of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired. Under ASC 350 “Intangibles - Goodwill and Others” , or ASC 350 , goodwill is not amortized, but rather is subject to an annual impairment test. ASC 350 requires goodwill to be tested for impairment at least annually or between annual tests in certain circumstances, and written off if and to the extent it is impaired. We conduct our impairment testing in the fourth quarter of each year, or more often if there are indicators of impairment present. Goodwill for all of our reporting units is tested for impairment by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying value. Fair value is determined using discounted cash flows. Significant estimates used in the fair value methodologies include estimates of future cash flows, future growth rates and the weighted average cost of capital of the reporting units.

In 2015, the continuing pressure on the Department of Defense (“DoD”) budget in the United States along with delayed orders from other clients as well as other factors, resulted in a decline in revenues and operational results of our Mobility Division compared to budget and prior year’s results. These factors were considered by us as indicators of a potential impairment of the Mobility Division’s goodwill.

45
In accordance with ASC 350, “Intangible – Goodwill and Other” (“ASC 350”), following the identification of the impairment indicators, we performed a goodwill impairment test for the two reporting units in the Mobility Division, using the income approach to value the reporting units’ fair value. The material assumptions used for the income approach were five (5) years of projected cash flows, a long-term growth rate of 4% and a discounted rate of 13%. The impairment test resulted in a goodwill impairment of $20.4 million in 2015, attributable to the Wavestream reporting unit. This impairment was recorded as part of “Goodwill impairment” in our statement of operations.

During 2016 and 2014, no goodwill impairment losses were identified. Future events could cause us to conclude that impairment indicators exist, and that additional goodwill associated with our acquired businesses are impaired. Any resulting impairment loss could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

Legal and Other Contingencies. We are currently involved in certain legal and other proceedings and are also aware of certain tax and other legal exposures relating to our business. We are required to assess the likelihood of any adverse judgments or outcomes of these proceedings or contingencies as well as potential ranges of probable losses. A determination of the amount of accruals required, if any, for these contingencies is made after careful analysis.

Liabilities related to legal proceedings, demands and claims are recorded in accordance with ASC 450, “Contingencies” , or ASC 450 , which defines a contingency as “an existing condition, situation, or set of circumstances involving uncertainty as to possible gain or loss to an enterprise that will ultimately be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur.” In accordance with ASC 450, accruals for exposures or contingencies are being provided when the expected outcome is probable and when the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. It is possible, however, that future results of operations for any particular quarter or annual period could be materially affected by changes in our assumptions, the actual outcome of such proceedings or as a result of the effectiveness of our strategies related to these proceedings.
Year Ended December 31, 2016 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2015

Revenues. Revenues for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 for our three divisions were as follows:

Year Ended
Year Ended
December 31,
December 31,
2016
2015
Percentage
change
2016
2015
U.S. dollars in thousands
Percentage of revenues
Commercial
Products
62,030
65,666
(5.5
)%
22.2
%
33.2
%
Services
31,791
35,269
(9.4
)%
11.4
%
17.9
%
94,001
100,935
(6.9
)%
33.6
%
51.1
%
Mobility
Products
59,363
38,746
53.2
%
21.2
%
19.6
%
Services
3,548
2,366
50.0
%
1.3
%
1.2
%
62,911
41,112
53.0
%
22.5
%
20.8
%
Services
Products
92,898
24,558
278.3
%
33.2
%
12.4
%
Services
29,741
30,938
(3.9
)%
10.6
%
15.7
%
122,639
55,496
121.0
%
43.9
%
28.1
%
Total
Products
214,291
128,970
66.2
%
76.7
%
65.3
%
Services
65,260
68,573
(4.8
)%
23.3
%
34.7
%
Total
279,551
197,543
41.5
%
100.0
%
100.0
%

46

Our total revenues for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were $279.6 million and $197.5 million, respectively. The increase in 2016 is mainly attributable to an increase of approximately $67.1 million in Services Division revenues and a $21.8 million increase in Mobility Division revenues, partially offset by a decrease of $6.9 million in Commercial Division revenues.
The decrease in our Commercial Division revenues is primarily attributable to lower sales in the Latin America region due to adverse economic conditions in the entire region, including the entry of a large customer in Brazil into judicial reorganization proceedings.  In addition, the satellite industry is shifting to HTS technology which is characterized by large deals with a longer decision-making process. This extended decision-making process affected our results in 2016.
The increase in Mobility Division revenues is primarily attributable to an increase in sales related to airborne mobility products, principally IFC products and our Wavestream products.
The increase in Services Division revenues is primarily attributable to revenues from the four FITEL projects which we were awarded in 2015. We began deploying the first three projects during 2015 and the fourth in 2016. The four FITEL projects are expected to generate revenues of approximately $393 million over a period of approximately 13 years.
Gross profit. The gross profit and the gross margin of our three divisions for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 was as follows:

Year Ended
Year Ended
December 31,
December 31,
2016
2015
2016
2015
U.S. dollars in thousands
Percentage of revenues
Commercial
Products
18,018
17,943
29.0
%
27.3
%
Services
18,580
19,567
58.1
%
55.5
%
36,598
37,510
38.9
%
37.2
%
Mobility
Products
19,965
9,443
33.6
%
24.4
%
Services
1,984
954
55.9
%
40.3
%
21,949
10,397
34.9
%
25.3
%
Services
Products
13,745
6,901
14.8
%
28.1
%
Services
3,198
(583
)
10.8
%
(1.9
)%
Impairment of long lived assets
-
(10,137
)
0.0
%
(18.3
)%
16,943
(3,819
)
13.8
%
(6.9
)%
Total
Products
51,728
34,287
24.1
%
26.6
%
Services
23,762
19,938
36.4
%
29.1
%
Impairment of long lived assets
-
(10,137
)
0.0
%
(5.1
)%
Total
75,490
44,088
27.0
%
22.3
%

47
Our gross profit is affected year-to-year by the mix of revenues between products and services, the regions in which we operate, the size of our transactions and the timing of when such transactions are consummated. Moreover, from time to time we may have large-scale projects which can cause material fluctuations in our gross profit. As such, we are subject to year-to-year fluctuation in our gross profit.

Our gross profit margin increased to 27.0% in 2016 from 22.3% in 2015. The increase in our gross profit margin in the year ended December 31, 2016 is mainly attributable to an increase in our overall sales compared to the year ended December 31, 2015 and an impairment of long lived assets of approximately $10.1 million that we recorded in 2015.

The increase in the Commercial Division’s gross profit margin is mainly attributable to revenues from deals with higher margins in the year ended December 31, 2016, compared to the year ended December 31, 2015, partially offset by lower revenues over a similar level of fixed expenses in the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to the year ended December 31, 2015 .

The increase in the gross profit margin of the Mobility Division is mainly attributable to  higher revenues partially offset by a higher level of fixed expenses in the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to the year ended December 31, 2015 .

In the Services Division, the increase of gross profit margin is attributable to the impairment of long-lived assets of approximately $10.1 million which was recorded in 2015, coupled with higher revenue from the FITEL projects in the year ended December 31, 2016, compared to the year ended December 31, 2015 . During 2015, we encountered higher than expected expenses related to our project in Colombia, which resulted in operating and cash flow losses. Consequently, we identified an impairment loss of property and equipment, net and long-term deferred charges, which are part of “other assets” in our balance sheet, in the amount of $4.1 million and $6.0 million, respectively. The total impairment loss of $10.1 million was recorded as part of “Impairment of long lived assets” in the statement of operations.

Research and development expenses, net . Our research and development expenses are incurred by our Commercial and Mobility Divisions. Our research and development expenses for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

Year Ended
Year Ended
December 31,
December 31,
2016
2015
Percentage
change
2016
2015
U.S. dollars in thousands
Percentage of revenues
Commercial
Expenses incurred
14,222
16,698
(14.8
)%
15.1
%
16.5
%
Less - grants
1,623
2,523
(35.7
)%
1.7
%
2.5
%
12,599
14,175
(11.1
)%
13.4
%
14.0
%
Mobility
Expenses incurred
12,254
8,254
48.5
%
19.5
%
20.1
%
Less - grants
-
17
(100.0
)%
0.0
%
0.0
%
12,254
8,237
48.8
%
19.5
%
20.0
%
Total, net (*)
24,853
22,412
10.9
%
17.5
%
15.8
%
(*) percentage of total net research and development costs of revenues is calculated based on total revenues of our Commercial and Mobility Divisions.
48
Research and development expenses increased by approximately $2.4 million in 2016 compared to 2015. The increase in expenses is related to our increased investments in R&D efforts in the Mobility division to support our growing business.  Grants from the Innovation Authority decreased by approximately $0.9 million in 2016 compared to 2015.

Selling and marketing expenses. The selling and marketing expenses of our three reportable divisions for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

Year Ended
Year Ended
December 31,
December 31,
2016
2015
Percentage
change
2016
2015
U.S. dollars in thousands
Percentage of revenues
Commercial
17,153
16,839
1.9
%
18.2
%
16.7
%
Mobility
5,483
6,947
(21.1
)%
8.7
%
16.9
%
Services
775
1,037
(25.3
)%
0.6
%
1.9
%
Total
23,441
24,823
(5.7
)%
8.4
%
12.6
%
Selling and marketing expenses decreased by approximately $1.4 million in the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to the year ended December 31, 2015. Selling and marketing expenses decreased in our Mobility and Services Divisions by approximately $1.5 million and $0.2 million, respectively, which decreases were partially offset by an increase of $0.3 million in our Commercial Division.
The increase in expenses in the Mobility Division is mainly attributable to an increase in freight and agent commission expenses. The decrease in Mobility Division expenses is mainly attributable to decreased salaries and related benefits and other expenses resulting from a reduction in work force and from cost efficiencies.

General and administrative expenses. The general and administrative expenses of our three divisions for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

Year Ended
Year Ended
December 31,
December 31,
2016
2015
Percentage
change
2016
2015
U.S. dollars in thousands
Percentage of revenues
Commercial
10,657
6,622
60.9
%
11.3
%
6.6
%
Mobility
9,138
6,271
45.7
%
14.5
%
15.3
%
Services
6,676
5,751
16.1
%
5.4
%
10.4
%
Total
26,471
18,644
42.0
%
9.5
%
9.4
%

General and administrative expenses increased by approximately $7.8 million in the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to the year ended December 31, 2015 . This increase is attributable to $4.0 million, $2.9 million and $0.9 million increases in the expenses of our Commercial, Mobility and Services Divisions, respectively.

The increase in expenses of our Commercial Division is primarily attributable to an accrual for bad debt attributable to the Commercial Division’s governmental customer in Venezuela arising from the worsening economic situation and the recent credit downgrade in that country.

49
In our Mobility Division, the $2.9 million increase is primarily attributable to higher legal expenses due to trade secrets litigation in the United States against former employees, that we initiated in 2015, amounting to approximately $4.4 million in expenses in 2016 compared to $0.8 million in 2015 . T he increase in expenses of our Services Division in 2016 is primarily attributable to higher salaries and related benefits expenses.

Goodwill impairment . We conducted our impairment testing in the fourth quarter of 2016. Goodwill for all of our reporting units was tested for impairment by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying. No impairment losses were identified in 2016.

In 2015, we identified certain indicators that affected the carrying value of the goodwill of Wavestream within our Mobility Division. The continuing pressure on the DoD budget in the United States along with delayed orders from other clients as well as other elements, were reflected in the reduction of Wavestream’s actual revenues and operational results. We performed an analysis of Wavestream’s implied carrying value in accordance with ASC 350 and as a result of this analysis, we recorded goodwill impairment losses of approximately $20.4 million in the year ended December 31, 2015.

Restructuring costs . In 2015, we initiated a restructuring plan to improve our operating efficiency at various operating sites and to reduce our operating expenses in the future. As a result, we recognized expenses of approximately $1.5 million in 2015, mainly for one-time employee termination benefits and costs to terminate a contract.

Financial expenses, net. In the year ended December 31, 2016, we had financial expenses of approximately $4.8 million compared to financial expenses of approximately $7.2 million in 2015. The decrease in our financial expenses is primarily attributable to changes in exchange rate between the local currency and the U.S. dollar in the countries where some of our subsidiaries are located partially offset by higher bank charges, surety and guaranty expenses, mainly related to our projects in Latin America.

Taxes on income. Taxes on income are dependent upon where our profits are generated, such as the location and taxation of our subsidiaries as well as changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities recorded mainly as part of business combinations. Tax expenses in the year ended December 31, 2016 were approximately $1.3 million compared to approximately $1.2 million in the year ended December 31, 2015.

Year Ended December 31, 2015 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2014

Revenues. Revenues for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 for our three divisions were as follows:
Year Ended
Year Ended
December 31,
December 31,
2015
2014
Percentage
change
2015
2014
U.S. dollars in thousands
Percentage of revenues
Commercial
Products
65,666
82,488
(20.4
)%
33.2
%
35.1
%
Services
35,269
47,818
(26.2
)%
17.9
%
20.3
%
100,935
130,306
(22.5
)%
51.1
%
55.4
%
Mobility
Products
38,746
51,318
(24.5
)%
19.6
%
21.8
%
Services
2,366
3,499
(32.4
)%
1.2
%
1.5
%
41,112
54,817
(25.0
)%
20.8
%
23.3
%
Services
Products
24,558
23,725
3.5
%
12.4
%
10.1
%
Services
30,938
26,285
17.7
%
15.7
%
11.2
%
55,496
50,010
11.0
%
28.1
%
21.3
%
Total
Products
128,970
157,531
(18.1
)%
65.3
%
67.0
%
Services
68,573
77,602
(11.6
)%
34.7
%
33.0
%
Total
197,543
235,133
(16.0
)%
100.0
%
100.0
%

50

Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 were $197.5 million and $235.1 million, respectively. The decrease is mainly attributable to a decrease of approximately $29.4 million in Commercial Division revenues and a $13.7 million decrease in Mobility Division revenues, partially offset by an increase of $5.5 million in Services Division revenues.

The decrease in our Commercial Division revenues is primarily attributable to the completion of a few significantly large deals in the year ended December 31, 2014 in Latin America, Africa and Australia. In the year ended December 31, 2015 we did not secure deals of this magnitude. The satellite industry is shifting to HTS technology which is characterized by large deals with a longer decision-making process. This extended decision-making process affected our results in 2015.

The decrease in Mobility Division revenues is primarily attributable to a decrease in our defense related revenues that was caused by a continued decrease in U.S. DoD demand.

The increase in Services Division revenues is primarily attributable to revenues from the three FITEL projects which we were awarded in March 2015 and which we began deploying in 2015, and to the Kioscos project in Colombia, that is a services project from which we began to recognize revenues during 2014. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in revenues related to the FITEL project in the Amazonas region of Peru, which was completed in 2014.
Gross profit. The gross profit and the gross margin of our three divisions for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 was as follows:

Year Ended
Year Ended
December 31,
December 31,
2015
2014
2015
2014
U.S. dollars in thousands
Percentage of revenues
Commercial
Products
17,943
25,184
27.3
%
30.5
%
Services
19,567
27,535
55.5
%
57.6
%
37,510
52,719
37.2
%
40.5
%
Mobility
Products
9,443
15,688
24.4
%
30.6
%
Services
954
2,106
40.3
%
60.2
%
10,397
17,794
25.3
%
32.5
%
Services
Products
6,901
9,756
28.1
%
41.1
%
Services
(583
)
3,366
(1.9
)%
12.8
%
Impairment of long lived   assets
(10,137
)
-
(18.3
)%
-
(3,819
)
13,122
(6.9
)%
26.2
%
Total
Products
34,287
50,628
26.6
%
32.1
%
Services
19,938
33,007
29.1
%
42.5
%
Impairment of long lived  assets
(10,137
)
-
(5.1
)%
-
Total
44,088
83,635
22.3
%
35.6
%

51
Our gross profit margin decreased to 22.3% in the year ended December 31, 2015 from 35.6% in the year ended December 31, 2014. The decrease in our gross profit margin in 2015 is mainly attributable to impairment of long lived assets in the amount of approximately $10.1 million and decrease in our overall sales compared to 2014. As a result of the fixed cost component in our costs of goods sold, the decrease in overall sales generally resulted in a significant decrease in our overall gross margin, as further discussed below.
The decrease in the Commercial Division’s gross profit margin is mainly attributable to lower revenues over a similar level of fixed expenses in the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to the year ended December 31, 2014 .
The decrease in the Mobility Division’s our gross profit margin is mainly attributable to lower revenues coupled with lower margin deals in , 2015 compared to, 2014 .

The decrease in the Services Division’s gross profit margin is attributable to lower than average gross margins attributable to the Kioscos project in Colombia and from the impairment of long lived assets associated with that project. . During 2015, we encountered higher than expected expenses related to this project, which resulted in operating and cash flow losses. Consequently, we identified an impairment loss of $10.1 million.

Research and development expenses, net . Our research and development expenses are incurred by our Commercial and Mobility Divisions. Our research and development expenses for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows:

Year Ended
Year Ended
December 31,
December 31,
2015
2014
Percentage
change
2015
2014
U.S. dollars in thousands
Percentage of revenues
Commercial
Expenses incurred
16,698
19,099
(12.6
)%
16.5
%
14.7
%
Less - grants
2,523
2,015
25.2
%
2.5
%
1.5
%
14,175
17,084
(17.0
)%
14.0
%
13.1
%
Mobility
Expenses incurred
8,254
8,536
(3.3
)%
20.1
%
15.6
%
Less - grants
17
462
(96.3
)%
0.0
%
0.8
%
8,237
8,074
2.0
%
20.0
%
14.7
%
Total, net (*)
22,412
25,158
(10.9
)%
15.8
%
13.6
%

(*) percentage of total net research and development costs of revenues is calculated based on the total revenues from our Commercial and Mobility Divisions.

52
Research and development expenses decreased by approximately $2.7 million in the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to the year ended December 31, 2014. The decrease is mainly attributable to our continuing efforts to integrate and create synergies in our research and development activities worldwide and to the appreciation of the U.S. dollar in relation to the NIS. Grants from the Innovation Authority remained approximately at the same level in 2015  and 2014.
Selling and marketing expenses. The selling and marketing expenses of our three reportable divisions for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows:

Year Ended
Year Ended
December 31,
December 31,
2015
2014
Percentage
2015
2014
U.S. dollars in thousands
change
Percentage of revenues per division
Commercial
16,839
23,401
(28.0
)%
16.7
%
18.0
%
Mobility
6,947
7,809
(11.0
)%
16.9
%
14.2
%
Services
1,037
1,327
(21.9
)%
1.9
%
2.7
%
Total
24,823
32,537
(23.7
)%
12.6
%
13.8
%

Selling and marketing expenses decreased by approximately $7.7 million in the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to the year ended December 31, 2014. In 2015, selling and marketing expenses decreased in our Commercial, Mobility and Services Divisions by approximately $6.6 million, $0.9 million and $0.3 million, respectively.
The decrease in the selling expenses of the Commercial Division is mainly attributable to a decrease in freight expenses, agent commission expenses and lower employees’ sales commission expenses due to lower revenues.
The decrease in the selling expenses of the Mobility Division is mainly attributable to decreased salaries and related benefits and other expenses resulting from a reduction in work force and from cost efficiencies.
General and administrative expenses. The general and administrative expenses of our three divisions for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows:

Year Ended
Year Ended
December 31,
December 31,
2015
2014
Percentage
2015
2014
U.S. dollars in thousands
change
Percentage of revenues per division
Commercial
6,622
7,808
(15.2
)%
6.6
%
6.0
%
Mobility
6,271
5,961
5.2
%
15.3
%
10.9
%
Services
5,751
7,134
(19.4
)%
10.4
%
14.3
%
Total
18,644
20,903
(10.8
)%
9.4
%
8.9
%
General and administrative expenses decreased by approximately $2.3 million in the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to the year ended December 31, 2014. This decrease is attributable to a $1.2 million and $1.4 million decrease in the expenses of our Commercial and Services Divisions, respectively, which decreases were partially offset by an increase of $0.3 million in our Mobility Division.
53
The decrease in expenses in the Commercial Division is primarily attributable to a decrease in salaries and related expenses and to the reversal of a contingency accrual. This decrease was partially offset by an increase in allowances for bad debt expenses attributable to certain customers and to the reversal of certain accruals in 2014 due to our participation in a tax amnesty program in Brazil (Refis).
The increase in expenses of the Mobility Division is primarily attributable to higher legal expenses.
The decrease in expenses of the Services Division is primarily attributable to a reduction in work force and the effect of exchange rates coupled with lower legal expenses.

Goodwill impairment . In 2015, we identified certain indicators that affected the carrying value of the goodwill of Wavestream within our Mobility Division. The continuing pressure on the DoD budget in the United States along with delayed orders from other clients as well as other elements, were reflected in the reduction of Wavestream’s actual revenues and operational results. We performed an analysis of Wavestream’s implied carrying value in accordance with ASC 350 and as a result of this analysis, we recorded goodwill impairment losses of approximately $20.4 million in the year ended December 31, 2015. No impairment losses were identified in 2014.

Restructuring Costs. In 2015, we initiated a restructuring plan to improve our operating efficiency at various operating sites and to reduce our operating expenses in the future. As a result, we recognized expenses of approximately $1.5 million in 2015, mainly for one-time employee termination benefits and costs to terminate a contract.

Financial expenses, net. In the year ended December 31, 2015, we had financial expenses of approximately $7.2 million compared to financial expenses of approximately $3.8 million in the year ended December 31, 2014. The increase in our financial expenses is primarily attributable to changes in exchange rate between the local currency and the U.S. dollar in the countries where some of our subsidiaries are located, higher bank charges, sureties and guaranties expenses mainly related to our projects in Latin America and due to our participation in the Refis tax amnesty program in Brazil and the reversal of related accruals in 2014.

Taxes on income. Taxes on income are dependent upon where our profits are generated, such as the location and taxation of our subsidiaries as well as changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities recorded mainly as part of business combinations. Tax expenses in the year ended December 31, 2015 were approximately $1.2 million compared to approximately $1.9 million in the year ended December 31, 2014.

Variability of Quarterly Operating Results

Our revenues and profitability may vary from quarter to quarter and in any given year, depending primarily on the sales mix of our family of products and the mix of the various components of the products, sale prices, and production costs, as well as on entering into new service contracts, the termination of existing service contracts, or different profitability levels between different service contracts. Sales of our products to a customer typically consist of numerous VSATs and related hub equipment, SSPAs, BUCs, and low-profile antennas, which carry varying sales prices and margins.

Annual and quarterly fluctuations in our results of operations may be caused by the timing and composition of orders by our customers and the timing of our ability to recognize revenues. Our future results may also be affected by a number of factors, including our ability to continue to develop, introduce and deliver new and enhanced products on a timely basis and expand into new product offerings at competitive prices, to integrate our recent acquisitions, to anticipate effectively customer demands and to manage future inventory levels in line with anticipated demand. Our results may also be affected by currency exchange rate fluctuations and economic conditions in the geographical areas in which we operate. In addition, our revenues may vary significantly from quarter to quarter as a result of, among other factors, the timing of new product announcements and releases by our competitors and us. We cannot be certain that revenues, gross profit and net income (or loss) in any particular quarter will not vary from the preceding or comparable quarters. Our expense levels are based, in part, on expectations as to future revenues. If revenues are below expectations, operating results are likely to be adversely affected. In addition, a substantial portion of our expenses are fixed ( e.g . space segment, lease payments) and adjusting expenses in the event revenues drop unexpectedly often takes considerable time. As a result, we believe that period-to-period comparisons of our results of operations are not necessarily meaningful and should not be relied upon as indications of future performance. Due to all of the foregoing factors, it is possible that in some future quarters our revenues or operating results will be below the expectations of public market analysts or investors. In such event, the market price of our shares would likely be materially adversely affected.

54
Conditions in Israel

We are organized under the laws of the State of Israel, where we also maintain our headquarters and a material portion of our laboratory capacity and principal research and development facilities.  See Item 3.D. “Key Information – Risk Factors – Risks Relating to Our Location in Israel” for a description of governmental, economic, fiscal, monetary or political factors that have materially affected or could materially affect our operations.

Impact of Inflation and Currency Fluctuations

While most of our sales and service contracts are in U.S. dollars or are linked to the U.S. dollar and most of our expenses are in U.S. dollars and NIS, portions of our projects in Latin America as well as our operation in Australia and Europe are linked to their respective local currencies. The foreign exchange risks are often significant due to fluctuations in local currencies relative to the U.S. dollar.

The influence on the U.S. dollar cost of our operations in Israel relates primarily to the cost of salaries in Israel, which are paid in NIS and constitute a substantial portion of our expenses in NIS. In 2016, the rate of inflation in Israel was (0.2)% and the U.S. dollar depreciated in relation to the NIS at a rate of 1.5%, from NIS 3.902 per $1 on December 31, 2015 to NIS 3.845 per $1 on December 31, 2016. If future inflation in Israel exceeds the devaluation of the NIS against the U.S. dollar or if the timing of such devaluation lags behind increases in inflation in Israel, our results of operations may be materially adversely affected. In 2016 and 2015, in order to limit these risks, we entered into hedging agreements to cover certain of our NIS to U.S. dollar exchange rate exposures.

Our monetary balances that are not linked to the U.S. dollar impacted our financial expenses during the 2016 and 2015 periods. This is due to heavy fluctuations in currency rates in certain regions in which we do business, mainly in Latin America, Australia and Europe. There can be no assurance that our results of operations will not be materially adversely affected by other currency fluctuations in the future.

Effective Corporate Tax Rate

The corporate tax rate in Israel effective as of January 1, 2017 is 24%, compared with 25% in 2016 and 26.5% in 2015 and 2014. The corporate tax rate in Israel is scheduled to be further reduced to 23% from January 1, 2018.

The Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959 , or Investments Law, provides that a capital investment in eligible facilities may, upon application to the Investment Center of the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Labor of the State of Israel, be designated as an “Approved Enterprise”, and now known as a “Privileged Enterprise”. A Privileged Enterprise is eligible for tax benefits on taxable income derived from its approved enterprise programs.

On April 1, 2005, an amendment to the Israeli Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959, or the Investment Law, came into effect that limits the scope of enterprises which may be approved by the Investment Center by setting criteria for the approval of a facility, such as provisions generally requiring that at least 25% of their business income will be derived from export. A facility that is approved is called a “Benefitted Enterprise.” Additionally, the 2005 amendment enacted major changes in the manner in which tax benefits are awarded under the Investment Law, so that companies no longer require Investment Center approval in order to qualify for tax benefits.

55
We have been granted “Approved Enterprise” status under the Investment Law for nine investment programs. In addition, our company chose 2005 and 2011 as the years of election in order to receive tax benefits as Benefitted Enterprise under the amendment. See “Item 10 - Additional Information - Israeli Tax Consideration”. If we fail to comply with the conditions applicable to this status under the Investment Law, we may be required to pay additional taxes and penalties or make refunds and may be denied future benefits. From time to time, the government of Israel has discussed reducing or eliminating the benefits available under such programs, and therefore these benefits may not be available in the future at current levels, or at all.
To the extent we become profitable for Israeli tax purposes, we may therefore be eligible for a tax exemption for a limited period on undistributed Benefitted Enterprise income, and an additional subsequent period of reduced corporate tax rates (ranging between 10% and 25%, depending on the level of foreign ownership of our shares), on such undistributed Benefitted Enterprise income. Income from sources other than the “Benefitted Enterprises” during the relevant period of benefits will be taxable at the regular corporate tax rates. As of December 31, 2016, we did not generate income under the provisions of the Investment Law .
Under an amendment to the Investment Law effective January 1, 2011, upon an irrevocable election made by the company, a uniform rate of corporate tax will apply to all qualified income of certain industrial companies, as opposed to the currently applicable law’s incentives that are limited to income from Benefitted Enterprises during their benefits period. Under the amended law, "Preferred Enterprise", the uniform tax rates were 10% in geographical areas in Israel designated as Development Zone A and 15% elsewhere in Israel during 2011-2012. The uniform tax rates were reduced to 7% and 12.5%, respectively to the mentioned geographic areas in 2013. The uniform tax rate for 2014 and onwards is set to 9% in areas in Israel designated as Development Zone A and 16% elsewhere in Israel. The profits of these industrial companies will be freely distributable as dividends, subject to a 20% withholding tax (or lower, under an applicable tax treaty).
According to a December 2016 amendment to the Investment Law, a preferred enterprise located in development area A will be subject to a tax rate of 7.5% instead of 9% effective from January 1, 2017 and thereafter (the tax rate applicable to preferred enterprises located in other areas remains at 16%).
Under the transition provisions of the 2011 legislation, we may elect whether to irrevocably implement the 2011 law, while waiving benefits provided under the currently applicable law, or rather to keep implementing the currently applicable law during the next years. Changing from the currently applicable law to the new January 1, 2011 law is permissible at any stage.
The December 2016 amendment also prescribes special tax tracks for technological enterprises, which are subject to rules that are to be issued by the Minister of Finance by March 31, 2017. The new tax tracks under the amendment are as follows:
Technological preferred enterprise - an enterprise whose total consolidated revenues (parent company and all subsidiaries) is less than NIS 10 billion. A technological preferred enterprise, as defined in the Law, which is located in the center of Israel will be subject to tax at a rate of 12% on profits deriving from intellectual property (in development area A - a tax rate of 7.5%).
Special technological preferred enterprise - an enterprise whose total consolidated revenues ( parent company and all subsidiaries)  exceeds NIS 10 billion. Such enterprise will be subject to tax at a rate of 6% on profits deriving from intellectual property, regardless of the enterprise’s geographical location.
Any dividends distributed to “foreign companies”, as defined in the Law, deriving from income from the technological enterprises will be subject to tax at a rate of 4%.
Definitive criteria to determine the tax benefits have not yet been established.

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Impact of Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standard Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). The core principle of the new guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The ASU is effective for us in 2018 using either of two methods: (i) retrospective application of ASU 2014-09 to each prior reporting period presented with the option to elect certain practical expedients as defined within ASU 2014-09; or (ii) retrospective application of ASU 2014-09 with the cumulative effect of initially applying ASU 2014-09 recognized at the date of initial application and providing certain additional disclosures as defined per ASU 2014-09 (“Modified Retrospective Adoption Transition Method”).We have established an implementation team and have started analyzing the impact of the guidance. We are in the process of reviewing current accounting policies and practices to identify potential differences that would result from applying the requirements of the guidance to our revenue contracts and related expenses. We intend to complete the process during 2017 and adopt the new standard on January 1, 2018 using the Modified Retrospective Adoption Transition Method.
Based on the preliminary evaluations to date, we identified several issues that may be treated differently under the new revenue standard, such as: a) Incremental costs of obtaining a contract - Capitalization and amortization of incremental costs of obtaining a contract, such as sales commissions, will be recognized as assets if they are recoverable. The asset will be amortized on a systematic basis consistent with the pattern of the transfer of the goods or services to which the asset relates. Currently, the Company expenses commissions cost as incurred; b) Limitation of revenue recognition to the amount that is not contingent. Currently, the amount allocable to the delivered items is limited to the amount that is not contingent upon the delivery of additional items or meeting a specified performance condition. However, this limitation does not exist under the new standard, which might cause an earlier recognition than current guidance. The foregoing observations are subject to change as we complete our evaluation and implementation process. The FASB has issued, and may issue in the future, interpretive guidance which may cause our evaluation to change. We believe we are following an appropriate timeline to allow for proper recognition, presentation and disclosure upon adoption effective the beginning of fiscal year 2018.
In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting revenue gross versus net) ("ASU 2016-08"), which clarifies the implementation guidance on principal versus agent considerations. In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-10, Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing (Topic 606) ("ASU 2016-10"), which amends its new revenue recognition guidance on identifying performance obligations and accounting for licenses of intellectual property. Both ASU 2016-08 and ASU 2016-10 are effective upon the adoption of ASU 2014-09.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) ("ASU 2016-02"). The new guidance requires lessees to recognize assets and liabilities on the balance sheet for the rights and obligations created by all leases with terms of more than 12 months. ASU 2016-02 also will require disclosures designed to give financial statement users information on the amount, timing, and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. ASU 2016-02 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018 including interim periods within those fiscal years, but early adoption is permitted. The ASU requires a modified retrospective transition approach and provides certain optional transition relief. We are currently evaluating when we will adopt this new standard and the expected impact on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-05, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Effect of Derivative Contract Novations on Existing Hedge Accounting Relationships” (“ASU 2016-05”), which clarifies that a change in the counter party to a derivative instrument designated as a hedging instrument does not require designation of that hedging relationship, provided that all other hedge accounting criteria are met. ASU 2016-05 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of an interim period on a modified retrospective basis. We do not expect that this new guidance will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting (“ASU 2016-09”). ASU 2016-09 simplifies several aspects of the accounting for employee share-based payment transactions, including the accounting for income taxes, forfeitures, and statutory tax withholding requirements, as well as classification in the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-09 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2016. The impact of adoption on our consolidated financial statements is not material.
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In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments ("ASU 2016-15"). This new standard clarifies certain aspects of the statement of cash flows, including the classification of debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs or other debt instruments with coupon interest rates that are insignificant in relation to the effective interest rate of the borrowing, contingent consideration payments made after a business combination, proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims, proceeds from the settlement of corporate-owned life insurance policies, distributions received from equity method investees and beneficial interests in securitization transactions. This new standard also clarifies that an entity should determine each separately identifiable source of use within the cash receipts and payments on the basis of the nature of the underlying cash flows. In situations in which cash receipts and payments have aspects of more than one class of cash flows and cannot be separated by source or use, the appropriate classification should depend on the activity that is likely to be the predominant source or use of cash flows for the item. ASU 2016-15 will generally be applied retrospectively and is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early application is permitted. We do not expect that this new guidance will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash ("ASU 2016-18"), which requires companies to include amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents in cash and cash equivalents when reconciling beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-18 will be effective for us in the first quarter of 2018 and early adoption is permitted. We expect that the adoption will affect our operating and investing activities in our consolidated statements of cash flow as both activities include material changes in the restricted cash balances.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Accounting for Goodwill Impairment ("ASU 2017-04"). ASU 2017-04 eliminates Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test, which requires the calculation of the implied fair value of goodwill by assigning the fair value of a reporting unit to all of its assets and liabilities as if that reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination. Instead, an entity will compare the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount and recognize an impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit's fair value. ASU 2017-04 is effective for annual or any interim goodwill impairment tests in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. We are currently evaluating the expected impact of the standard on our consolidated financial statements.
B.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Since our inception, our financing requirements have been met through cash from funds generated by private equity investments, public offerings, issuances of convertible subordinate notes, bank loans and credit facilities, operations, as well as funding from research and development grants. We have used available funds primarily for working capital, capital expenditures and strategic investments.
As of December 31, 2016, we had cash and cash equivalents of $40.1 million, short-term and long-term restricted cash of $62.4 million and short-term restricted cash held in trustees’ accounts of $ 9.1 million. As of December 31, 2015, we had cash and cash equivalents of $18.4 million, short-term and long-term restricted cash of $101.0 million, short-term restricted cash held in trustees’ accounts of $8.5 million and short term bank credits and loans of $7.0 million.
In March 2016, we concluded a rights offering, raising gross proceeds of approximately $35.3 million and issuing 9,874,170 ordinary shares. Under the rights offering we granted, at no charge to the holders of our ordinary shares as of the record date for the rights offering, one non-transferable subscription right to purchase two ordinary shares for each nine (9) ordinary shares owned at a price of $7.16 (reflecting a price of $3.58 per share).

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We believe that our working capital is sufficient for our present requirements over the next 12 months.

As of December 31, 2016, our long-term debt was approximately $21.5 million, comprised of long-term loans of $16.9 million and current maturities of long-term loans of $4.6 million. The long term loans primarily consist of a loan that was received in December 2010 in the amount of $40 million from First International Bank of Israel, or FIBI, which bears interest of 4.77% . As of December 31, 2016, the principal outstanding balance of this loan was $20 million.

In addition, in connection with the Regional FITEL Projects, we were required to post certain advance payment guarantees and performance guarantees with FITEL. These requirements were principally satisfied through surety bonds issued by Amtrust Europe Limited, or Amtrust, for the benefit of FITEL, through a Peruvian fronting insurance company as well as through the issuance of bank guarantees by FIBI and by The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, or HSBC . Under the arrangements with FIBI, HSBC and Amtrust, we are required to observe certain conditions, including the requirement to maintain an amount of restricted cash. As of December 31 2016, we were in compliance with these requirements. Under the provisions of our agreements with FIBI and HSBC, we undertook to satisfy certain financial and other covenants. As of December 31, 2016 we are in compliance with these covenants. Our credit and guarantee agreements also contain various restrictions and limitations that may impact us. These restrictions and limitations relate to incurrence of indebtedness, contingent obligations, negative pledges, liens, mergers and acquisitions, change of control, asset sales, dividends and distributions, redemption or repurchase of equity interests, certain debt payments and modifications of loans and investments. The agreements also stipulate a floating charge on our assets to secure fulfillment of our obligations to FIBI and HSBC as well as other pledges, including a fixed pledge, on certain assets and property.

The following table summarizes our cash flows for the periods presented:

Years Ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
U.S. dollars in thousands
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
10,778
(14,787
)
(16,162
)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
(13,569
)
12,340
(26,753
)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
23,921
(5,867
)
12,389
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
568
(977
)
(172
)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
21,698
(9,291
)
(30,698
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period
18,435
27,726
58,424
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period
40,133
18,435
27,726

Our cash and cash equivalents increased by approximately $21.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2016 as a result of the following:

Operating activities . Cash provided by our operating activities was approximately $10.8 million in 2016 compared to cash used in operating activities of approximately $14.8 million in 2015. The cash provided by our operating activities in 2016 was primarily attributable to our improved operating results in 2016, adjusted for non-cash activity, including the impact of changes in advances from customers, offset by depreciation and amortization expenses, changes in trade receivables and restricted cash received directly related to operating activities.

Investing activities . Cash used in investing activities was approximately $13.6 million in 2016 compared to cash provided by investing activities of approximately $12.3 million in 2015. The changes in our cash in 2016 derived from changes in restricted cash and by the purchase of property and equipment.

Financing activities . Cash provided by financing activities was approximately $23.9 million in 2016 compared to cash used in financing activities in 2015 of approximately $5.9 million. The cash provided by financing activities in 2016 derived primarily from the proceeds received from the issuance of shares in a rights offering, which was partially offset by repayment of long-term loans and short term bank credits.

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Our cash and cash equivalents decreased by approximately $9.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2015 as a result of the following:

Operating activities . Cash used in our operating activities was approximately $14.8 million and $16.2 million in 2015 and 2014, respectively. The cash used in our operating activities in 2015 consisted primarily of net income adjusted for non-cash activity, including goodwill and long lived assets impairments, depreciation and amortization and restricted cash received directly related to operating activities, which was offset by increase in advances from customers.

Investing activities . Cash provided by investing activities was approximately $12.3 million in 2015 compared to cash used in investing activities of approximately $26.8 million in 2014. The changes in our cash in 2015 were derived from changes in restricted cash partially offset by the purchase of property and equipment.

Financing activities . Cash used in continuing financing activities was approximately $5.9 million in 2015 compared to cash provided by financing activities in 2014 of approximately $12.4 million. The cash used in financing activities in 2015 consisted primarily of repayment of long-term loans and short term bank credit, partially offset by the issuance of restricted stock units and exercise of stock options.

C.
Research and Development
We devote significant resources to research and development projects designed to enhance our VSAT,  Satellite Communication on-the-move antennas, SSPAs and GLT-1000 modem products, to multiply the applications for which they can be used and to develop new products, including expanding our portfolio to address IFC applications. We intend to continue to devote substantial resources to complete the development of certain features, including improving functionality, support higher throughput, improving space segment utilization and network resilience, thereby contributing to reducing the cost of our products.

Our research and development activities are located in Israel, Bulgaria, Moldova, the United States (California) and Singapore.  Our Bulgarian center focuses on developments related to our Satellite Communication on-the-move antennas. Our facilities in California and Singapore are dedicated to the continuing design and development of SSPAs. Our facilities in Moldova and Israel work on research and development of VSATs, baseband equipment and network management.

We devoted significant research and development resources over the last few years to the development of our SkyEdge family of products, including to the development of our own proprietary hardware platforms for both baseband equipment and software. In 2016, we invested heavily in developing new functionality for IFC application, including new VSAT platforms, global bandwidth management and beam switching.  We continued to invest in optimizing solutions for cellular backhaul, improving throughput, supported security and resilience. We develop our own network software as well as software for our VSATs.

Our software and our internally developed hardware are proprietary and we have implemented protective measures both of a legal and practical nature. We have obtained and registered patents in the U.S. and in various other countries in which we offer our products and services. We rely upon the copyright laws to protect against unauthorized copying of the object code of our software and upon copyright and trade secret laws for the protection of the source code of our software. We derive additional protection for our software by generally licensing only the object code to customers and keeping the source code confidential. In addition, we enter into confidentiality agreements with our customers and other business partners to protect our software technology and trade secrets. We have also obtained trademark registrations in the U.S. and various other countries for additional protection of our intellectual property. Despite all of these measures, it is possible that competitors could copy certain aspects of our technology or obtain information that we regard as a trade secret in violation of our legal rights.

In accordance with our agreements with the Innovation Authority, we are eligible to participate in various programs under which we have received and are eligible to receive research and development grants for financing research and development projects in Israel pursuant to the provisions of The Encouragement of Industrial Research and Development Law, 1984. We are also participating in a grant research program of the European Union, Horizon 2020, from which we received an initial grant of $0.4 million in 2016. With respect to some of our funding programs, we are obligated to pay royalties from the revenues derived from products developed within the framework of such programs. However, most of our programs are non-royalty bearing programs.

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The following table sets forth, for the years indicated, our gross research and development expenditures, the portion of such expenditures which was funded mainly by non-royalty bearing grants and the net cost of our research and development activities:

Years Ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
(U.S. dollars in thousands)
Gross research and development costs
26,477
24,952
27,635
Less:
Grants
1,624
2,540
2,477
Research and development costs - net
24,853
22,412
25,158

D.
Trend Information
The satellite communications industry is moving toward HTS technology that employs multi-beam transmission for more efficient use of space segment.  With the scheduled launch of numerous HTS, we believe that development of products using this technology will be an important competitive factor in the satellite communications market. We are continuing our efforts to enhance our current products and develop new ones to support the advantages of this technology.

The continued increase in HTS supply is projected to produce a reduction in bandwidth price. This reduction is expected to make satellite communications economically viable for more broadband, cellular and mobility applications. Accordingly, satellite communications is expected to economically increase cellular coverage and service in rural, metro-edge and metro areas in developed and developing countries. This trend may result in the growth of the small-cell market and the need to rapidly deploy LTE backhaul.
We continue to focus on the mobility trend which has been driven by the projected growth of mobility applications, especially on commercial airplanes, and also on trains and seagoing vessels, as well as defense-related applications.
In the past few years the satellite communications market has experienced increasing competition both from within its sector and from competing communication technologies. Specifically, the expansion of cellular coverage in rural areas worldwide, increased terrestrial infrastructures as well as the advancement of wireless technologies, increases the options for our potential and existing customers. In addition, the number of satellite communications providers in the market has increased and prices of technologies continue to decline. Another development in our industry is the increasing demand for complete solutions which encompass far more than a single platform of a communications solution.
We believe that the political environment in Israel could continue to prevent certain countries from doing business with us and this, in addition to the increased competition and reduced prices in the telecommunications industry overall, may have an adverse effect on our business. Given all of the above, we cannot guarantee or predict what our sales will be, what trends will develop, and if any changes in our business and marketing strategy will be implemented.

E.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
At times, we guarantee the performance of our work to some of our customers, primarily government entities. Guarantees are often required for our performance during the installation and operational periods of long-term rural telephony projects such as in Latin America, and for the performance of other projects (government and corporate) throughout the rest of the world. The guarantees typically expire when certain operational milestones are met. In addition, from time to time, we provide corporate guarantees to guarantee the performance of our subsidiaries. No guarantees have ever been exercised against us.

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In order to guarantee our performance obligations and the down payment we received under the Regional FITEL Projects, we provided bank guarantees by FIBI and by HSBC and surety bonds for the benefit of FITEL, which surety bonds have been issued by Amtrust through a Peruvian insurance company in an aggregate amount of approximately $125.1 million at December 31, 2016.  We have provided Amtrust with a corporate guarantee in the amount of approximately $57 million. In addition, we have restricted cash of approximately $21.4 million as collateral for these guarantees .

Our credit and guarantee agreements also contain various covenants, restrictions and limitations that may impact us. These covenants, restrictions and limitations relate to incurrence of indebtedness, contingent obligations, negative pledges, liens, mergers and acquisitions, change of control, asset sales, dividends and distributions, redemption or repurchase of equity interests, certain debt payments and modifications of loans and investments. The agreements also stipulate a floating charge on our assets to secure fulfillment of our obligations to FIBI and HSBC as well as other pledges, including a fixed pledge, on certain assets and property. As of December 31, 2016, the aggregate amount of bank guarantees and surety bonds from insurance companies outstanding to secure our various performance obligations was approximately $139.7 million, including an aggregate of approximately $135.8 million on behalf of our subsidiaries in Peru. We have restricted cash of approximately $24 million as collateral for these guarantees.

In order to guarantee our performance obligations for our current activities in Colombia, we purchased insurance from an insurance company in Colombia. We have provided the insurance company with various corporate guarantees, guaranteeing our performance and our employee salary and benefit costs of approximately 42.95 billion Colombian Pesos (approximately $14.3 million based on the representative rate of exchange published as of December 31, 2016) and 9.47 billion Colombian Pesos (approximately $3.2 million based on the representative rate of exchange published as of December 31, 2016), respectively.
F.
Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations
The following table summarizes our minimum contractual obligations as of December 31, 2016 and the effect we expect them to have on our liquidity and cash flow in future periods:

Contractual Obligations
Payments due by period (in U.S. dollars in thousands)
Total
2017
2018-2019
2020-2021
2022
Long-term loans *
21,549
4,617
8,842
8,090
-
Operating leases (mainly space segment)
13,110
9,621
3,489
-
-
Purchase commitments (mainly inventory)
13,494
13,494
-
-
-
Other long-term debt
3,351
1,846
1,505
-
-
Total contractual cash obligations
51,504
29,578
13,836
8,090
-

(*) Future interest payments are not included due to variability in interest rates.

In addition, we have recorded a provision in the amount of $1.3 million, included in our balance sheet, related to legal and tax contingencies.

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ITEM 6:
DIRECTORS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT

A.
Directors and Senior Management
The following table sets forth the name, age, position(s) and a brief account of the business experience of each of the directors and executive officers:

Name
Age
Position(s)
Dov Baharav
66
Chairman of the Board of Directors
Yona Ovadia
57
Chief Executive Officer
Amiram Boehm (3)
45
Director
Dafna Cohen (1)(2)(4)(5)
47
Director
Ishay Davidi
55
Director
Dr. Zvi Lieber (1)(2)(4)(5)
74
Director
Amir Ofek (3)
41
Director
Aylon (Lonny) Rafaeli (1) (2)(4)
6 3
Director
Meir Shamir (3)
65
Director
Dafna Sharir (1)(4)
48
Director
Michal Aharonov
45
Vice President, Global Accounts & Telecom Services
Nirit Barnea
49
Vice President, Human Resources
Zeev Botzer
57
Vice President, Delivery and Operations
Adi Sfadia
46
Chief Financial Officer
Alik Shimelmits
55
Vice President, Research & Development

(1)
Member of our Audit Committee.
(2)
Member of our Compensation and Stock Option Committee.
(3)
“Independent Director” under the applicable NASDAQ Marketplace Rules (see explanation below)
(4)
“Independent Director” under the applicable NASDAQ Marketplace Rules and the applicable rules of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) (see explanation below)
(5)
“External Director” as required by Israel’s Companies Law (see explanation below)

Dov Baharav has served as the Chairman of our Board of Directors since May 2014 and also served as our interim Chief Executive Officer from May 2015 until March 31, 2016. Mr. Baharav has served as the chairman of the board of directors of Cyberint Inc., a provider of cyber security services and products solutions, since October 2014. Mr. Baharav has served as a member of the board of directors of Mellanox Technologies Ltd., a supplier of end-to-end InfiniBand and Ethernet connectivity solutions and services for servers and storage, since November 2010. Mr. Baharav served as the chairman of the board of directors of Israel Aerospace Industries, Ltd., a defense and civil aerospace technology company, from July 2011 until October 2013. Mr. Baharav served as a member of the Board of directors of Allot Communications Ltd., a global provider of intelligent broadband solutions, from March 2013 until July 2014. From July 2002 until November 2010, Mr. Baharav served as president and chief executive officer of Amdocs Limited, a communications services company. He also served as a member of Amdocs’ board of directors and executive committee from July 2002 until November 2010. Mr. Baharav joined Amdocs in 1991 as vice president and then became president of Amdocs’ principal U.S. subsidiary, Amdocs, Inc., and served as chief financial officer of Amdocs from 1995 until June 2002. From 1983 until 1991, Mr. Baharav served as chief operating officer of Oprotech Ltd., an electro-optical device company. Mr. Baharav is Chairman of the scholarship fund of the College of Management Academic Studies in Rishon Lezion, Israel. Mr. Baharav holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics and Accounting, as well as an M.B.A. degree from Tel Aviv University

Yona Ovadia joined our company in March 2015 as Vice President, Services and Commercial Division. He has served as our Chief Executive Officer since March 31, 2016. Prior to joining our company, Mr. Ovadia served as Group President & Head of Services Group at Amdocs from 2013 to 2015. Prior to such time, from 2010 until 2013 Mr. Ovadia served as Head of Delivery & Managed Services at Amdocs Ltd. and prior thereto he served in various executive positions at Amdocs, mainly in the areas of services and managed services, with a position as management member since 1997.  Mr. Ovadia holds a B.Sc. in Math and Computer Science from Tel Aviv University.

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Amiram Boehm has served on our Board of Directors since December 2012. Mr. Boehm has been a Partner in the FIMI Opportunity Funds, Israel’s largest group of private equity funds, since 2004. Mr. Boehm serves as the Managing Partner and Chief Executive Officer of FITE GP (2004), and as a director of Ormat Technologies Inc. (NYSE, TASE), Ham-Let (Israel-Canada) Ltd., Hadera Paper Ltd (TASE)., Rekah Pharmaceuticals Ltd (TASE), Pharm-up Ltd (TASE)., TAT Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ, TASE) and DIMAR Ltd, DelekSon Ltd and Galam Ltd. Mr. Boehm previously served as a director of Scope Metal Trading, Ltd.  (TASE), Inter Industries, Ltd. (TASE), Global Wire Ltd. (TASE), Telkoor Telecom Ltd. (TASE) and Solbar Industries Ltd. (previously traded on the TASE). Prior to joining FIMI, from 1999 until 2004, Mr. Boehm served as Head of Research of Discount Capital Markets, the investment arm of Israel Discount Bank. Mr. Boehm holds a B.A. degree in Economics and a LL.B. degree from Tel Aviv University and a Joint M.B.A. degree from Northwestern University and Tel Aviv University.

Dafna Cohen has served on our Board of Directors as an external director (within the meaning of the Israeli Companies Law) since December 2014. Ms. Cohen is the Head of Business Control and Investor Relations of EL-AL Israel Airlines Ltd., a company traded on the TASE and also serves as an independent business and financial advisor. Ms. Cohen has served as a member of board of directors of Formula Systems (1985) Ltd since 2009 (NASDAQ and TASE). Ms. Cohen served as Director of Global Treasury of MediaMind Technologies Inc. (previously traded on NASDAQ) and as a member of the investment committee of its board of directors from 2010 to 2011. Prior to that, Ms. Cohen served as a Director of Investments and as a Treasurer of Emblaze Ltd. and as a member of the investment committee of its board of directors from 2005 to 2009 (London Stock Exchange). Prior to that, Ms. Cohen served as an Investment Manager for Leumi Partners, a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank Leumi, and as a manager at the derivatives sector of the Investment Division of Bank Leumi. Ms. Cohen previously served as a member of boards of directors of XTL Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. (NASDAQ and TASE) from 2009 to 2015, Europort Ltd from 2012 to 2014 (TASE) and of Inventech Central Ltd from 2011 to 2012 (TASE). Ms. Cohen holds an M.B.A. in finance and accounting and a B.A. degree in economics and political science, both from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

Ishay Davidi has served on our Board of Directors since December 2012. Mr. Davidi is the Founder and has served as Chief Executive Officer of the FIMI Opportunity Funds, Israel’s largest group of private equity funds, since 1996. Mr. Davidi currently serves as Chairman of the board of directors of Inrom Industries Ltd., Hadera Paper Ltd. (TASE) and Polyram plastics, Dimar Cutting Tools, and as director at Ham-Let (Israel-Canada) Ltd. (TASE), Rekah Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (TASE), Tadir-Gan Precision materials (TASE), C. Mer Industries Ltd. (TASE), Pharm Up Ltd. (TASE), Tadir-Gan (TASE), and DelekSon Ltd . Mr. Davidi previously served as the Chairman of the board of directors of Retalix (previously traded on NASDAQ and TASE) from August 2008 until January 2010, of Tefron Ltd. (New York Stock Exchange and TASE) and of Tadir-Gan (TASE), and as a director at Ormat Industries Ltd. (previously traded on TASE), Retalix, Tadiran Communications Ltd. (TASE), Lipman Electronic Engineering Ltd. (NASDAQ and TASE), Merhav Ceramic and Building Materials Center Ltd. (TASE), TAT Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ and TASE), Orian C.M. Ltd. (TASE), Ophir Optronics Ltd., Overseas Commerce Ltd, (TASE), Scope Metals Group Ltd. (TASE) and Formula Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ and TASE). Prior to establishing FIMI, from 1993 until 1996, Mr. Davidi was the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Tikvah Fund, a private Israeli investment fund. From 1992 until 1993 Mr. Davidi was the Chief Executive Officer of Zer Science Industries Ltd., a developer of diagnostics equipment for the healthcare industry. Mr. Davidi holds a B.Sc. degree in Industrial and Management Engineering from Tel Aviv University, Israel, and a M.B.A. degree from Bar Ilan University, Israel.
Dr. Zvi Lieber has served on our Board of Directors as an external director (within the meaning of the Israeli Companies Law) since May 2014 . Dr. Lieber is a financial and investment consultant, an actuary and an economist. Dr. Lieber has served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Analyst Provident Funds Ltd. since 2011, and as member of the boards of directors of Baran Ltd., a global provider of engineering, technology, and construction for challenging projects since 2008. From 2006 until 2014, Mr. Lieber served as member of the board of directors of Ampa Capital Ltd. a company specializes in non-bank financing, and from 2010 until 2014, as a member of the board of Europort Ltd., a holding company mainly focused on the area of senior living residence projects. Dr. Lieber was a faculty member in Tel Aviv University, The Leon Recanati Graduate School of Business Administration between 1972 and 2002. He lectured on accounting, finance and value creation. Dr. Lieber was also a visiting professor at the business school of NYU in 1971-2 and 1977-8 where he lectured on accounting, and in recent years he lectured in various colleges in Israel. Dr. Lieber has published numerous papers in leading academic journals. From 2008 until 2011, Dr. Lieber was a member of the board of directors of Retalix Ltd., a company previously traded on NASDAQ and TASE. From 2010 until 2011 he served as Chairman of the board of directors of Analyst Underwriters Ltd. From 2005 until 2009, Dr. Lieber served as a board member of Provident and Pension Fund of the workers of the Jewish Agency. From 2002 until 2006, he served as a board member of the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange. Prior to that he served as a board member of numerous public and private companies. Dr. Lieber also participated in key public committees appointed by the Israeli government. Dr. Lieber holds a PhD in Business Administration from University of Chicago.
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Amir Ofek has served on our Board of Directors since December 2014.  Mr. Ofek is Chief Executive Officer of Cyberint Inc., a provider of cyber security services and products solutions. Mr. Ofek has served as a director on the board of Cyberint since September 2014. Mr. Ofek also serves as a partner at Baharav Ventures Ltd. (“BVL”), a company wholly owned by the Chairman of our Board of Directors, Mr. Baharav. Prior to joining BVL, Mr. Ofek worked at Amdocs Inc, the leading BSS/OSS provider, from 2006 to 2014, where he served as VP Client Business Executive SingTel Group at Amdocs, based in Singapore from 2009 . Prior to this role, Mr. Ofek served as Director of Management Services at Amdocs from 2007 to 2009 and in the Corporate Strategy unit from 2006 to 2007. Before joining Amdocs in 2006, Mr. Ofek worked for Elbit Systems Ltd., a leading aerospace defense company, from 2001 to 2005. Mr. Ofek holds a BSc. degree (Cum Laude) in Industrial Engineering and Management, majoring in Information Systems from the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology and an M.B.A. degree from the European Institute of Business Administration (INSEAD) in Fontainebleau, France.

Aylon (Lonny) Rafaeli has served on our Board of Directors since May 2016. Mr. Rafaeli is a strategy and business development manager and consultant. From 2007 through 2012, Mr. Rafaeli was Director of Business Development at MST, a concentrated photo voltaic company. Prior to joining MST, Mr. Rafaeli was Managing Partner at E. Barak Associates, a strategic consulting company. Prior to this role, Mr. Rafaeli was Chief Executive Officer of Hasbro Israel (toys). Mr. Rafaeli is a member of the board of directors of the TALI Education Fund and a veteran association of an IDF elite unit.  Mr. Rafaeli also served in the past as a director of Lenox Investment and Azimuth Technologies. Mr. Rafaeli holds an Executive M.B.A. degree in Strategic Management from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

Meir Shamir has served on our Board of Directors since May 2016. Mr. Shamir is the chief executive officer and a director of Mivtach Shamir holdings Ltd., a public company traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange.  Mivtach Shamir is a holding company active in spotting and initiating investments in technology and in commercial real estate development in Israel and throughout Europe, the U.S. India. Mr. Shamir served as a navigator in the Israeli Air Force. Mr. Shamir is an active philanthropist and since 2012 he has served as the Head of the Presidency of “Taglit” (Birthright Israel) . Mr. Shamir holds a Business & Economics Administration degree and received an Honorary Doctorate from Bar Ilan University.

Dafna Sharir has served on our Board of Directors since May 2016. Ms. Sharir is an Independent Consultant in the areas of mergers and acquisitions and business development. Ms. Sharir served as Senior Vice President Investments of Ampal Corp. between 2002 and 2005. Before that she served as Director of Mergers and Acquisitions at Amdocs (until 2002). Between 1994 and 1996, Ms. Sharir served as a tax advisor with Cravath, Swaine & Moore in New York. Ms. Sharir is a director of Frutarom Industries Ltd. and served in the past as a director of Ormat Industries Inc.  Ms. Sharir holds B.A. degrees in Economics and Law, both from Tel Aviv University, an LL.M. in Tax Law from New York University, and an M.B.A. degree from INSEAD.

Michal Aharonov has served as our Vice President, Global Accounts and Telecom Services since October 2015. Prior to joining Gilat, from 2013 until 2015, Ms. Aharonov served as Vice President, Head of Sales and Services at Essence Group. Prior thereto, from 2008 until 2012, Ms. Aharonov served as Vice President, Global Strategic Sourcing at Amdocs, after having served since 2000 in various positions at Amdocs. Ms. Aharonov holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration focusing on financial information systems from Clark University in Massachusetts, U.S. and a B.A. degree in Business Management and Finance from the College of Management – Academic Studies in Tel Aviv, Israel.

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Nirit Barnea has served as our Vice President, Human Resources since June 2015. Prior to joining Gilat, from 2010 until 2014, Ms. Barnea served as the Global VP HR of 3M Attenti Ltd. (formerly DMATEK Ltd.). Prior thereto, Ms. Barnea held several senior management HR positions for various software and telecommunications companies. Ms. Barnea holds an M.A. degree in Sociology from Tel Aviv University and a B.A. degree in Economics and Business Administration from Haifa University.
Zeev Botzer has served as our Vice President, Delivery and Operations since February 2016. Prior to joining Gilat, from November 2013 until February 2016, Mr. Botzer served as COO at FST Biometrics. Prior thereto, from September 2006 until November 2013, he served as Vice President of Operations at Visonic Ltd., and from 1999 until September 2006 as Vice President of Global Operations at Verint Systems Inc. Mr. Botzer also served in various operations management positions at Optrotech Ltd. and at Laser Industries Ltd. Mr. Botzer holds a B.Sc. degree with honors in Industrial and Management Engineering from Tel Aviv University.
Adi Sfadia has served as our Chief Financial Officer since November 2015. Prior to joining Gilat Mr. Sfadia served as CFO of Starhome Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Fortissimo Capital, from January 2013. From 2008 to 2013, Mr. Sfadia served as CFO of RADVISION Ltd. (previously traded on NASDAQ and TASE). From 2004 until 2008, Mr. Sfadia served as RADVISION’s Corporate Controller and Vice President of Finance. Prior to that, Mr. Sfadia served in several senior financial positions in Israeli companies, where he gained wide financial and managerial experience.  Mr. Sfadia served five years in a public accounting position with Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of Ernst & Young Global.  Mr. Sfadia holds a B.A. degree in Business Administration and an M.B.A. degree (magna cum laude) from The College of Management in Tel Aviv and Rishon Lezion, and is a Certified Public Accountant in Israel.
Alik Shimelmits has served as our Vice President, Research and Development since May 2013.  Prior to joining Gilat, from 2007 to 2013, Mr. Shimelmits served as Head of Transport Networks R&D for ECI Telecom Ltd. and prior to that as VP Research and Development for Axerra Networks Ltd. from 1999 to 2007. From 1991 to 1999, Mr. Shimelmits held various technical and managerial positions at ECI Telecom, having last served there as Associate Vice President R&D, Software Development, SDH Product Line. Mr. Shimelmits holds a M.Sc. degree in Applied Mathematics from Moscow Institute of Electronic Engineering and a B.Sc. degree in Computer Science from Moscow Institute of Chemical Engineering.

B.
Compensation of Directors and Officers
The following table sets forth the aggregate compensation paid to or accrued on behalf of all of our directors and officers as a group for the year ended December 31, 2016:

Salaries, Fees,
Directors’ Fees,
Commissions and
Bonuses(1)
Amounts Set Aside for Pension, Retirement and
Similar Benefits
All directors and officers as a group (20 persons)(2)
$
2,854,085
$
465,640
Includes bonuses  and equity-based compensation accrued in 2016, but does not include business travel, professional and business association dues and expenses reimbursed to our directors and officers, and other benefits commonly reimbursed or paid by companies in Israel.

(1)
Includes nine directors and officers that ceased to hold office during 2016 and four directors and officers that joined us during 2016.

In accordance with Israeli law requirements, the table below sets forth the compensation paid to our five most highly compensated senior office holders (as defined in the Companies Law) during or with respect to the year ended December 31, 2016, in accordance with the expenses recorded in our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2016. We refer to the five individuals for whom disclosure is provided herein as our “Covered Executives.”

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For purposes of the table and the summary below, and in accordance with the above mentioned securities regulations, “compensation” includes base salary, bonuses, equity-based compensation, retirement or termination payments, benefits and perquisites such as car, phone and social benefits and any undertaking to provide such compensation.

Summary Compensation Table
Information Regarding the Covered Executive in US dollars (1)
Name and Principal Position (2)
Base Salary
Benefits and
Perquisites (3)
Variable Compensation (4)
Equity-Based
Compensation (5)
Total
Yona Ovadia,
CEO
316,691
98,059
64,677
81,933
561,360
Dov Baharav,
Chairman of the Board
187,884
75,814
38,806
163,919
466,423
Adi Sfadia,
CFO
207,035
53,476
44,421
34,994
339,926
Michal Aharonov,
VP, Global Accounts & Telecom Services
220,606
48,015
43,368
16,994
328,983
Moshe (Chico) Tamir,
VP, Mobility Division
242,384
47,115
-
16,405
305,904

(1)
All amounts reported in the table are in terms of cost to our company, as recorded in our financial statements.
(2)
All executive officers listed in the table were employed or provided services on a full-time basis during 2016. The compensation set forth in the table above also includes compensation Mr. Baharav received in his role as interim Chief Executive Officer through March 31, 2016.
(3)
Amounts reported in this column include benefits and perquisites, including those mandated by applicable law. Such benefits and perquisites may include, to the extent applicable to each executive, payments, contributions and/or allocations for savings funds, pension, severance, vacation, car or car allowance, medical insurances and benefits, risk insurances (e.g., life, disability, accident), convalescence pay, payments for social security  and other benefits and perquisites consistent with our guidelines, but do not include business travel, relocation, professional and business association dues and expenses reimbursed to our directors and officers.
(4)
Amounts reported in this column refer to Variable Compensation such as commission, incentive and bonus payments as recorded in our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2016.
(5)
Amounts reported in this column represent the expense recorded in our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2016, with respect to equity-based compensation granted to the Covered Executive.

In accordance with the approval of our shareholders and in accordance with Israeli corporate law regarding compensation of external directors, each of our non-employee directors and external directors (all of our current directors except for our Chairman of the Board of Directors) is entitled to receive annual compensation payable quarterly of approximately NIS 93,690 (currently equivalent to approximately $25,800), and an additional fee of approximately NIS 1,924 (currently equivalent to approximately $530) for each board or committee meeting attended.  In addition, Board members are compensated for telephone participation in board and committee meetings in an amount of 60% of what would be received for physical attendance and for written resolutions in an amount equal to 50% of same. All the above amounts are linked to changes in the Israeli consumer price index as of September 2014 and subject to changes in the amounts payable pursuant to Israeli law from time to time.

During 2016, we granted options to purchase 400,000 ordinary shares to Yona Ovadia, our CEO, at an exercise price of $5.02 per share, which in accordance with our Executive Compensation Policy (as discussed below) reflected an exercise price 8% greater than the closing price of our ordinary shares on the NASDAQ Global Select market on the last trading day prior to the respective grant dates. The options vest in 16 equal quarterly installments over a four-year period and will remain exercisable for 12 months following cessation or termination of service (other than for cause).

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As of December 31, 2016, our directors and executive officers as a group, consisting of 16 persons, held options to purchase an aggregate of 1,610,000 ordinary shares, having exercise prices ranging from $3.77 to $6.72.  Generally, the options granted to our directors vest over a three-year period (except in the case of our Chairman, Dov Baharav, which vest over a four-year period) and the options granted to our executive officers vest over a four-year period.  The options will expire between 2019 and 2022. All of such options were awarded under our stock option plans described in Item 6E - “Directors, Senior Management and Employees - Share Ownership - 2008 Share Incentive Plan”.

Chairman Services. We and Mr. Baharav, through his controlled company, entered into an agreement dated May 20, 2014, or the Chairman Agreement, under which Mr. Baharav serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of our company. Mr. Baharav also served as interim Chief Executive Officer from May 2015 until March, 2016. Under the Chairman Agreement, for the period that he served as both Chairman and CEO Mr. Baharav was entitled (directly or through his controlled company) to: (i) a monthly fee in the amount of NIS 110,000 (approximately $30,300) ; (ii) payment of the cash value of various fringe benefits, in an aggregate amount of up to NIS 41,942 per month (approximately $11,550), which is equal to the employer’s cost that would have been incurred by the Company for such benefits if the Chairman served in an employee status and (iii) full time office space and secretarial assistance and reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses incurred by him in connection with his service. For his services as Chairman, since April 2016, Mr. Baharav is entitled (directly or through his controlled company) to: (i) a monthly fee in the amount of NIS 44,000 (approximately $12,100); (ii) payment of the cash value of various fringe benefits, in an aggregate amount of up to NIS 18,697 (approximately $5,150) per month, which is equal to the employer’s cost that would have been incurred by us for such benefits if the Chairman served in an employee status; and (iii) full time office space and secretarial assistance and reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses incurred by him in connection with his service. In May 2014, Mr. Baharav was granted options to purchase 250,000 of our ordinary shares, at an exercise price of $5.06 per share, and in May 2015, Mr. Baharav was granted options to purchase 150,000 of our ordinary shares exercisable at a price of $6.72 per share. The options were granted under our 2008 Option Plan and vest ratably, each quarter over a four-year period so long as Mr. Baharav continues to serve as Chairman of our company, and will remain exercisable during such service and for an additional 12 month period following termination of service (other than for cause).  We may terminate the agreement prior to the end of its term by providing two months paid notice and an additional two months ’ salary.  Mr. Baharav now serves only as Chairman.

CEO Services. Mr. Ovadia has served as our Chief Executive Officer since March 31, 2016. Under his employment agreement, Mr. Ovadia is entitled to: (i) a monthly salary in the amount of NIS 110,000 (approximately $30,300)) ; (ii) fringe benefits including social benefits, annual vacation and reimbursement of expenses. An annual cash bonus plan of six base monthly salaries was also approved for the years 2016 to 2018, upon achievement of a threshold of 80% of the company’s target operating profit metric. Additionally, Mr. Ovadia may be eligible for an over- achievement bonus of up to two and a half base monthly salaries. The foregoing is in addition to the 2016 grant of options to Mr. Ovadia under our 2008 Option Plan, to purchase 400,000 of our ordinary shares, as described above.

In accordance with the Israeli Companies Law, we adopted an Executive Compensation Policy for our executive officers and directors.  The purpose of the policy is to describe our overall compensation strategy for our executive officers and directors and to provide guidelines for setting their compensation, as prescribed by the Israeli Companies Law.  In accordance with the Israeli Companies Law, the Executive Compensation Policy must be reviewed and readopted at least once every three years. The policy was re-adopted in May 2016.

Approval by the Compensation Committee, the Board of Directors and our shareholders, in that order, is required for the adoption of the Executive Compensation Policy.  The shareholders’ approval must include the majority of shares voted at the meeting.  In addition to the majority vote, the shareholders’ approval must satisfy either of two additional tests:

·
the majority includes at least a majority of the shares voted by shareholders other than our controlling shareholders or shareholders who have a personal interest in the adoption of the Executive Compensation Policy; or

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·
the total number of shares held by non-controlling shareholders and disinterested shareholders that voted against the adoption of the Executive Compensation Policy does not exceed 2% of the aggregate voting rights of our company.

In the event that the Executive Compensation Policy is not approved by the shareholders, the compensation committee and the board of directors may still approve the policy, if the compensation committee and the board of directors determine, based on specified reasons and following further discussion of the matter, that the compensation policy is in the best interests of the company.

Under the Israeli Companies Law, the compensation arrangements for “office holders” (other than the Chief Executive Officer) who are not directors require the approval of the Compensation Committee and the Board of Directors; provided, however, that if the compensation arrangement is not in compliance with our Executive Compensation Policy, the arrangement may only be approved by the Compensation Committee and the Board of Directors for special reasons to be noted, and the compensation arrangement shall also require a special shareholder approval.  If the compensation arrangement is an immaterial amendment to an existing compensation arrangement of an “office holder” who is not a director and is in compliance with our Executive Compensation Policy, the approval of the Compensation Committee is sufficient.  An “office holder” is defined under Israeli Companies Law as a general manager, chief executive officer, chief business manager, deputy general manager, vice general manager, any other person assuming the responsibilities of any of the foregoing positions without regard to such person’s title, a director and a manager directly subordinate to the chief executive officer.

Arrangements regarding the compensation of directors require the approval of the Compensation Committee, the Board and our shareholders, in that order.

Arrangements regarding the compensation of the Chief Executive Officer require the approval of the Compensation Committee, the Board and our shareholders by special majority, in that order. In certain limited cases, the compensation of a new Chief Executive Officer who is not a director may be approved without approval of our shareholders.

C.
Board Practices
Election of Directors

Our Articles of Association provide that our Board of Directors shall consist of not less than five and not more than nine directors as shall be determined from time to time by a majority vote at the general meeting of our shareholders. Our shareholders resolved to set the size of our Board of Directors at nine members, including two external directors.

Pursuant to our Articles of Association, each beneficial owner of 14% or more of our issued and outstanding ordinary shares is entitled to appoint, at each annual general meeting of our shareholders, one member to our Board of Directors, provided that a total of not more than four directors are so appointed. In the event that more than four qualifying beneficial owners notify us that they desire to appoint a member to our board of directors, only the four shareholders beneficially owning the greatest number of shares shall each be entitled to appoint a member to our Board of Directors.  So long as our ordinary shares are listed for trading on NASDAQ, we may require that any such appointed director qualify as an “independent director” as provided in the NASDAQ rules then in effect.  Our Board of Directors has the right to remove any such appointed director when the beneficial ownership of the shareholder who appointed such director falls below 14% of our issued and outstanding ordinary shares.

Our Articles of Association provide that a majority of the voting power at the annual general meeting of our shareholders will elect the remaining members of the board of directors, including external directors as required under the Companies Law. At any annual general meeting at which directors are appointed pursuant to the preceding paragraph, the calculation of the vote of any beneficial owner who appointed a director pursuant to the preceding paragraph shall not take into consideration, for the purpose of electing the remaining directors, ordinary shares constituting 14% of our issued and outstanding ordinary shares held by such appointing beneficial owner.

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Each of our directors (except for external directors) serve, subject to early resignation or vacation of office in certain circumstances as set forth in our Articles of Association, until the adjournment of the next annual general meeting of our shareholders following the general meeting in which such director was elected. The holders of a majority of the voting power represented at a general meeting of our shareholders in person or by proxy will be entitled to (i) remove any director(s), other than external directors and directors appointed by beneficial holders of 14% or more of our issued and outstanding ordinary shares as set forth above, (ii) elect directors instead of directors so removed, or (iii) fill any vacancy, however created, in the board of directors. Our board of directors may also appoint additional directors, whether to fill a vacancy or in order to bring the total number of serving directors to the number determined by our shareholders. Such directors will serve until the next general meeting of our shareholders following such appointment.

Currently, no shareholder beneficially holding 14% or more of our issued and outstanding ordinary shares has exercised its right to appoint a director.

External Directors and Independent Directors

External Directors . Under the Israeli Companies Law, public companies are required to elect at least two external directors who must meet specified standards of independence.  External directors may not have had during the two years preceding their appointment, directly or indirectly through a relative, partner, employer or controlled entity, any affiliation with (i) the company, (ii) those of its shareholders who are controlling shareholders at the time of appointment and/or their relatives, or (iii) any entity controlled by the company or by its controlling shareholders.

The term “affiliation” includes an employment relationship, a business or professional relationship maintained on a regular basis, control and services as an office holder. The term “controlling shareholder” is defined as a shareholder who has the ability to direct the activities of a company, other than if this power derives solely from the shareholder’s position on the board of directors or any other position with the company. The definition also includes shareholders that hold 25% or more of the voting rights if no other shareholder holds more than 50% of the voting rights in the company.

In addition, an individual may not be appointed as an external director in a company that does not have a controlling shareholder, in the event that he has affiliation, at the time of his appointment, to the chairman, chief executive officer, a 5% shareholder or the chief financial officer. An individual may not be appointed as an external director if his relative, partner, employer, supervisor, or an entity he controls, has other than negligible business or professional relations with any of the persons with which the external director himself may not be affiliated.

No person can serve as an external director if the person’s other positions or business creates or may create conflicts of interest with the person’s responsibilities as an external director. Until the lapse of two years from termination of office, a company may not engage an external director as an employee or otherwise. If, at the time an external director is to be appointed, all current members of the board of directors, who are not controlling shareholders of the company or their relatives, are of the same gender, then at least one external director appointed must be of the other gender.

The Israeli Companies Law further requires that external directors have either financial and accounting expertise or professional competence, as determined by the company’s board of directors. Under relevant regulations, a director having financial and accounting expertise is a person who, due to his or her education, experience and talents, is highly skilled in respect of, and understands, business and accounting matters and financial reports, in a manner that enables him or her to have an in-depth understanding of the company’s financial information and to stimulate discussion in respect of the manner in which the financial data is presented. Under the regulations, a director having professional competence is a person who meets any of the following criteria: (i) has an academic degree in either economics, business administration, accounting, law or public administration; (ii) has a different academic degree or has completed higher education in an area relevant to the company’s business or in an area relevant to his or her position; or (iii) has at least five years’ experience in any of the following, or has a total of five years’ experience in at least two of the following: (a) a senior position in the business management of a corporation with a substantial scope of business, (b) a senior public position or a senior position in public service, or (c) a senior position in the main field of the company’s business.

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At least one of the external directors is required to qualify as a financial and accounting expert, as determined by the board of directors. Our Board of Directors has determined that both Ms. Dafna Cohen and Dr. Zvi Lieber have “accounting and financial expertise” as defined by the Israeli Companies law.

External directors serve for an initial three-year term. The initial three-year term of service can be extended, at the election of a company subject to certain conditions, by two additional three-year terms. External directors will be elected by a majority vote at a shareholders’ meeting, provided that either the majority of shares voted at the meeting, including at least half of the shares held by non-controlling shareholders voted at the meeting, vote in favor; or the total number of shares held by non-controlling shareholders voted against does not exceed two percent of the aggregate voting rights in the company.

The term of office of external directors of Israeli companies traded on certain foreign stock exchanges, including the NASDAQ Global Select Market, may be further extended, indefinitely, in increments of additional three-year terms, in each case provided that, in addition to reelection in such manner described above, (i) the audit committee and subsequently the board of directors of the Company confirm that, in light of the external director’s expertise and special contribution to the work of the board of directors and its committees, the reelection for such additional period is beneficial to the Company, and (ii) prior to the approval of the reelection of the external director, the Company’s shareholders have been informed of the term previously served by such nominee and of the reasons why the board of directors and audit committee recommended the extension of such nominee’s term.

External directors can be removed from office only by the court or by the same special majority of shareholders that can elect them, and then only if the external directors cease to meet the statutory qualifications with respect to their appointment or if they violate their fiduciary duty to the company. The court may additionally remove external directors from office if they were convicted of certain offenses by a non-Israeli court or are permanently unable to fulfill their position.

An external director is entitled to compensation as provided in regulations adopted under the Companies Law and is otherwise prohibited from receiving any other compensation, directly or indirectly, in connection with such service.

The Companies Law requires external directors to submit to the company, prior to the date of the notice of the general meeting convened to elect the external directors, a declaration stating their compliance with the requirements imposed by Companies Law for the office of external director.

Our Board of Directors currently has two external directors under Israeli law : (i) Dr. Zvi Lieber, who was elected to serve as an external director in May 2014 ; and (ii) Ms. Dafna Cohen, who was elected to serve as an external director in December 2014 .

Independent Directors .  In general, NASDAQ Marketplace Rules require that the board of directors of a NASDAQ-listed company have a majority of independent directors, within the meaning of NASDAQ rules.  Our Board of Directors has determined that seven out of the nine members of our Board of Directors are independent directors under NASDAQ requirements.

Pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, a director may be qualified as an independent director if such director is either (i) an external director; or (ii) a director that served as a board member less than nine years and the audit committee has approved that he or she meets the independence requirements of an external director.  A majority of the members serving on the audit committee and the compensation committee must be independent under the Israeli Companies Law.

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Chairman of the Board

Under the Companies Law, the Chief Executive Officer (referred to as a “general manager” under the Companies Law) or a relative of the Chief Executive may not serve as the chairman of the board of directors, and the chairman or a relative of the chairman may not be vested with authorities of the Chief Executive Officer without shareholder approval consisting of a majority vote of the shares present and voting at a shareholders meeting, provided that either:

·
such majority includes at least two-thirds of the shares held by all shareholders who are not controlling shareholders and do not have a personal interest in such appointment, present and voting at such meeting; or
·
the total number of shares of non-controlling shareholders and shareholders who do not have a personal interest in such appointment voting against such appointment does not exceed two percent of the aggregate voting rights in the company.

In addition, a person subordinated, directly or indirectly, to the Chief Executive Officer may not serve as the chairman of the board of directors; the chairman of the board may not be vested with authorities that are granted to those subordinated to the Chief Executive Officer; and the chairman of the board may not serve in any other position in the company or a controlled company, but he may serve as a director or chairman of a subsidiary.

Committees of the Board of Directors

Our Articles of Association provide that the Board of Directors may delegate its powers to committees of the Board of Directors as it deems appropriate, to the extent permitted by Israeli Companies Law. All of the external directors must serve on our audit committee and compensation committee (including one external director serving as the chair of the audit committee and compensation committee), and at least one external director must serve on each other committee that may be established by our Board of Directors.

Audit Committee. Under the Israeli Companies Law, publicly traded companies must establish an audit committee. The audit committee must consist of at least three members, and must include all of the company’s external directors, including one external director serving as chair of the audit committee. A majority of an audit committee must be comprised of “independent directors” (as such term is defined in the Companies Law). The chairman of the board of directors, directors employed by, or that provide services on a regular basis to, the company or to a controlling shareholder or a company controlled by a controlling shareholder (or whose main livelihood depends on a controlling shareholder), any controlling shareholder and any relative of a controlling shareholder may not be a member of the audit committee.  An audit committee may not approve an action or a transaction with an officer or director, a transaction in which an officer or director has a personal interest, a transaction with a controlling shareholder and certain other transactions specified in the Companies Law, unless at the time of approval two external directors are serving as members of the audit committee and at least one of the external directors was present at the meeting in which approval was granted.

In addition, the NASDAQ Marketplace Rules require us to establish an audit committee comprised of at least three members, all of whom must be independent directors, each of whom is financially literate and satisfies the respective “independence” requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission and NASDAQ and one of whom has accounting or related financial management expertise at senior levels within a company.

Our Audit Committee oversees (in addition to the Board) the accounting and financial reporting processes of our company and audits of our financial statements, including the integrity of our financial statements, compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, our independent auditors’  qualifications, independence, compensation, and performance, and the performance of our internal audit function. Our Audit Committee is also required to determine whether there are  deficiencies in the business management of our company and in such event propose to our Board of Directors  the means of correcting such deficiencies, determine whether certain related party actions and transactions are “material” or “extraordinary” in connection with their approval procedures, approve related-party transactions as required by Israeli law and establish whistle blower procedures (including in respect of the protections afforded to whistle blowers). The Audit Committee may consult from time to time with our independent auditors and internal auditor with respect to matters involving financial reporting and internal accounting controls.

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Our Audit Committee consists of Ms. Cohen, Ms. Sharir, Dr. Lieber, and Mr. Rafaeli. All of the members of our Audit Committee satisfy the respective “independence” requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission and NASDAQ, and the composition of our Audit Committee satisfies the audit committee composition requirements of the Israeli Companies Law. Our Board of Directors has determined that both Ms. Cohen and Dr. Lieber qualify as Audit Committee financial experts, as required by the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission and NASDAQ.

Compensation and Stock Option Committee. Under the Israeli Companies Law, publicly traded companies must establish a compensation committee, including an external director serving as chair of the compensation committee. The compensation committee must consist of at least three members, and must include all of the company’s external directors. The additional members of the compensation committee must satisfy the criteria for remuneration applicable to the external directors.

Our Compensation and Stock Option Committee consists of Ms. Cohen, Dr. Lieber and Mr. Rafaeli.  All of the members of our Compensation and Stock Option Committee are independent directors, within the meaning of NASDAQ rules and the composition of our Compensation and Stock Option Committee complies with the compensation committee composition requirements of the Israeli Companies Law.

Under Israeli Companies Law, the compensation committee is responsible for: (i) making recommendations to the Board of Directors with respect to the approval of the Executive Compensation Policy; (ii) providing the Board of Directors with recommendations with respect to any amendments or updates to the Executive Compensation Policy and periodically reviewing the implementation thereof; (iii) reviewing and approving arrangements with respect to the terms of office and employment of office holders; and (iv) determining whether or not to exempt a transaction with a candidate for chief executive officer from shareholder approval.

In addition, our Compensation and Stock Option Committee offers recommendations to the Board of Directors regarding equity compensation issues (with the Board also approving compensation of our executive officers) , and administers our option plans, subject to general guidelines determined by our Board of Directors from time to time.  The Compensation and Stock Option Committee also makes recommendations to our Board of Directors in connection with the terms of employment of our chief executive officer and all other executive officers.

New Israeli Regulations

In March 2016, the Israeli Companies Law Regulations were amended to reduce certain duplicative regulatory burdens to which Israeli companies publicly-traded on NASDAQ are subject. Generally, pursuant to the new regulations, an Israeli company traded on NASDAQ that does not have a “controlling shareholder” (as defined in the Israeli Companies Law) will be able to elect not to appoint External Directors to its Board of Directors and not to comply with the Audit Committee and Compensation Committee composition and chairman requirements of the Israeli Companies Law (as described above); provided, the company complies with the applicable NASDAQ independent director requirements and the NASDAQ Audit Committee and Compensation Committee composition requirements.

Since our largest shareholder, the FIMI funds, are deemed to be a “controlling shareholder” under the Israeli Companies Law, we are not currently eligible to benefit from the relief provided by these new amended Israeli regulations.

Internal Audit

The Israeli Companies Law requires the board of directors of a public company to appoint an internal auditor nominated by the audit committee.  The internal auditor must meet certain statutory requirements of independence.  The role of the internal auditor is to examine, among other things, the compliance of the company’s conduct with applicable law and orderly business practice.  Our internal auditor is Mr. Doron Cohen, CPA of Fahn Kanne, Grant Thornton.

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Directors’ Service Contracts

There are no arrangements or understandings with any of our directors providing for benefits upon termination of their employment or service as directors of our company or any of our subsidiaries, other than with our Chairman of the Board, Mr. Dov Baharav. Mr. Baharav’s agreement with us stipulates that we may terminate his agreement prior to the end of its four-year term by providing Mr. Baharav with two months’ notice and an additional two months’ salary.

Approval of Related Party Transactions under Israeli Law

Fiduciary Duties of Office Holders

The Israeli Companies Law codifies the fiduciary duties that “office holders,” including directors and executive officers, owe to a company.  An office holder’s fiduciary duties consist of a duty of care and a duty of loyalty.  The duty of care requires an office holder to act at a level of care that a reasonable office holder in the same position would employ under the same circumstances.  This includes the duty to utilize reasonable means to obtain: (i) information regarding the business feasibility of a given action brought for his approval or performed by him by virtue of his position; and (ii) all other information of importance pertaining to the foregoing actions.  The duty of loyalty requires that an office holder act in good faith and for the benefit of the company, including: (i) avoiding any conflict of interest between the office holder’s position in the company and any other position he holds or his personal affairs; (ii) avoiding any competition with the company’s business; (iii) avoiding exploiting any business opportunity of the company in order to receive personal gain for the office holder or others; and (iv) disclosing to the company any information or documents relating to the company’s affairs that the office holder has received by virtue of his position as an office holder.

Disclosure of Personal Interests of an Office Holder; Approval of Transactions with Office Holders

The Israeli Companies Law requires that an office holder promptly, and no later than the first board meeting at which such transaction is considered, disclose any personal interest that he or she may have and all related material information known to him or her and any documents in their possession, in connection with any existing or proposed transaction relating to our company.  In addition, if the transaction is an extraordinary transaction, that is, a transaction other than in the ordinary course of business, other than on market terms, or likely to have a material impact on the company’s profitability, assets or liabilities, the office holder must also disclose any personal interest held by the office holder’s spouse, siblings, parents, grandparents, descendants, spouse’s descendants and the spouses of any of the foregoing (“relatives”), or by any corporation in which the office holder or a relative is a 5% or greater shareholder, director or general manager or in which he or she has the right to appoint at least one director or the general manager.

Under the Israeli Companies Law, all arrangements as to compensation of office holders who are not directors other than the chief executive officer require approval by both the compensation committee and the board of directors.  The terms of office and employment of the chief executive officer and the directors require the approval of the compensation committee, the board of directors and shareholders. See also “Item 6.C—Board Practices; Compensation of Office Holders”.

Some other transactions, actions and arrangements involving an office holder (or a third party in which an office holder has an interest) must be approved by the board of directors or as otherwise provided for in a company’s articles of association, however, a transaction that is not for the benefit of the company may not be approved. In some cases, such a transaction must be approved by the audit committee and by the board of directors, and under certain circumstances shareholder approval may be required as well. Generally, in all matters in which a director has a personal interest he or she shall not be permitted to vote on the matter or be present at the meeting in which the matter is considered, except in case of a transaction that is not extraordinary or for the purpose of presenting the proposed transaction, if the chairman of the audit committee or board of directors (as applicable) determines it necessary. Should a majority of the audit committee or of the board of directors have a personal interest in the matter, then: (a) all of the directors are permitted to vote on the matter and attend the meeting at which the matter is considered; and (b) the matter requires approval of the shareholders at a general meeting.

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Disclosure of Personal Interests of a Controlling Shareholder; Approval of Transactions with Controlling Shareholders

The disclosure requirements that apply to an office holder also apply to a transaction in which a controlling shareholder of the company has a personal interest.  The Israeli Companies Law provides that extraordinary transactions with a controlling shareholder or in which a controlling shareholder has a personal interest, and agreements relating to employment and compensation of a controlling shareholder, generally require the approval of the audit committee (or with respect to terms of office and employment, the compensation committee), the board of directors and the shareholders. Shareholders’ approval shall either include at least a half of the shares held by disinterested shareholders participating in the vote, or, alternatively, the total shareholdings of disinterested shareholders voting against the transaction must not represent more than two percent of the voting rights. Agreements relating to engagement or provision of services for a period exceeding three years, must generally be approved once every three years.

For these purposes, a shareholder that holds 25% or more of the voting rights in a company is considered a controlling shareholder if no other shareholder holds more than 50% of the voting rights.

Under the Companies Regulations (Relief regarding Related Party Transactions), 5760-2000, promulgated under the Israeli Companies Law, as amended, certain extraordinary transactions between a public company and its controlling shareholder(s) do not require shareholder approval. In addition, under such regulations, directors’ compensation and employment arrangements in a public company do not require the approval of the shareholders if both the compensation committee and the board of directors agree that such arrangements are solely for the benefit of the company or if the directors’ compensation does not exceed the maximum amount of compensation for external directors determined by applicable regulations.  Also, employment and compensation arrangements for an office holder that is a controlling shareholder of a public company do not require shareholder approval if certain criteria are met. The foregoing exemptions from shareholder approval will not apply if one or more shareholders holding at least 1% of the issued and outstanding share capital of the company or of the company’s voting rights, objects to the use of these exemptions, provided that such objection is submitted to the company in writing not later than fourteen days from the date of the filing of a report regarding the adoption of such resolution by the company.  If such objection is duly and timely submitted, then the transaction or compensation arrangement of the directors will require shareholders’ approval as detailed above.

The Israeli Companies Law provides that an acquisition of shares in a public company must be made by means of a tender offer if as a result of the acquisition a person would become a 25% or greater shareholder of the company.  This rule does not apply if there is already another 25% or greater shareholder of the company.  Similarly, the Israeli Companies Law provides that an acquisition of shares in a public company must be made by means of a tender offer if as a result of the acquisition a person would hold greater than a 45% interest in the company, unless there is another shareholder holding more than a 45% interest in the company.  These requirements do not apply if (i) in general, the acquisition was made in a private placement that received shareholder approval, (ii) was from a 25% or greater shareholder of the company which resulted in the acquirer becoming a 25% or greater shareholder of the company, if there is not already a 25% or greater shareholder of the company, or (iii) was from a shareholder holding a 45% interest in the company which resulted in the acquirer becoming a holder of a 45% interest in the company if there is not already a 45% or greater shareholder of the company.

If, as a result of an acquisition of shares, a person will hold more than 90% of a public company’s outstanding shares or a class of shares, the acquisition must be made by means of a full tender offer for all of the outstanding shares or a class of shares.  If less than 5% of the outstanding shares are not tendered in such full tender offer, all of the outstanding shares or class of shares will be transferred to the acquirer.  The Israeli Companies Law provides for appraisal rights if any shareholder files a request in court within six months following the consummation of a full tender offer. However, the acquirer may stipulate in the tender offer that any shareholder tendering his shares will not be entitled to appraisal rights. If more than 5% of the outstanding shares are not tendered in the tender offer, then the acquirer may not acquire shares in the tender offer that will cause his shareholding to exceed 90% of the outstanding shares.

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Exemption, Indemnification and Insurance of Directors and Officers

Under the Israeli Companies Law, a company may not exempt an office holder from liability with respect to a breach of his fiduciary duty, but may exempt in advance an office holder from his liability to the company, in whole or in part, with respect to a breach of his duty of care.  However, a company may not exculpate in advance a director from his or her liability to the company with respect to a breach of his duty of care in connection with distributions (as defined in the Companies Law) or for certain breaches listed below.

Pursuant to the Companies Law, a company may indemnify an office holder against: (i) a financial obligation imposed on him in favor of another person by a court judgment, including a compromise judgment or an arbitrator’s award approved by court; (ii) reasonable litigation expenses, including attorney’s fees, expended by the office holder as a result of an investigation or proceeding instituted against him by a competent  authority, provided that such investigation or proceeding concluded without the filing of an indictment against him and either (A) concluded without the imposition of any financial liability in lieu of criminal proceedings or (B) concluded with the imposition of a financial liability in lieu of criminal proceedings but relates to a criminal offense that does not require proof of criminal intent; and (iii) expenses, including reasonable litigation expenses and legal fees, incurred by an office holder as a result of a proceeding instituted against such office holder in relation to (A) infringements that may impose financial sanction pursuant to the provisions of Chapter H’3 under the Israeli Securities Law, 1968, or the Securities Law, or (B) administrative infringements pursuant to the provisions of Chapter H’4 under the Securities Law, or (C) infringements pursuant to the provisions of Chapter I’1 under the Securities Law.

The indemnification of an office holder must be expressly permitted in the articles of association, under which the company may (i) undertake in advance to indemnify its office holders with respect to certain types of events that can be foreseen at the time of giving such undertaking and up to an amount determined by the board of directors to be reasonable under the circumstances, or (ii) provide indemnification retroactively in amounts deemed to be reasonable by the board of directors.

A company may also procure insurance for an office holder’s liability in consequence of an act performed in the scope of his office, in the following cases: (i) a breach of the duty of care of such office holder, (ii) a breach of fiduciary duty, only if the office holder acted in good faith and had reasonable grounds to believe that such act would not be detrimental to the company, or (iii) a monetary obligation imposed on the office holder for the benefit of another person. Subject to the provisions of the Companies Law and the Securities Law, a company may also enter into a contract for procurement of insurance for an office holder for (a) expenses, including reasonable litigation expenses and legal fees, incurred by the office holder as a result of a proceeding instituted against such office holder in relation to (A) infringements that may impose financial sanction pursuant to the provisions of Chapter H’3 under the Securities Law or (B) administrative infringements pursuant to the provisions of Chapter H’4 under the Securities Law or (C) infringements pursuant to the provisions of Chapter I’1 under the Securities Law and (b) payments made to the injured parties of such infringement under Section 52ND(a)(1)(a) of the Securities Law.

A company may not indemnify an office holder against, nor enter into an insurance contract which would provide coverage for, any monetary liability incurred as a result of any of the following:

·
a breach by the office holder of his fiduciary duty unless the office holder acted in good faith and had a reasonable basis to believe that the act would not prejudice the company;
·
a breach by the office holder of his duty of care if such breach was performed intentionally or recklessly ;
·
any act or omission carried out with the intent to derive an illegal personal gain; or
·
any fine or penalty levied against the office holder as a result of a criminal offense .
Under the Companies Law, exemption and indemnification of, and procurement of insurance coverage for, a company’s office holders, must be approved under the same terms that apply to approval of the terms of office and employment of the office holders. For more information, see Item 6.B - “Directors, Senior Management and Employees – Compensation of Directors and Officers” .
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Our Articles of Association allow us to exempt any office holder to the maximum extent permitted by law, before or after the occurrence giving rise to such exemption. Our Articles of Association also provide that we may indemnify any office holder, to the maximum extent permitted by law, against any liabilities he or she may incur in such capacity, limited with respect (i) to the categories of events that can be foreseen in advance by our Board of Directors when authorizing such undertaking and (ii) to the amount of such indemnification as determined retroactively by our Board of Directors to be reasonable in the particular circumstances. Similarly, we may also agree to indemnify an office holder for past occurrences, whether or not we are obligated under any agreement to provide such indemnification. Our Articles of Association also allow us to procure insurance covering any past or present officer holder against any liability which he or she may incur in such capacity, to the maximum extent permitted by law. Such insurance may also cover the company for indemnifying such office holder. We have obtained directors’ and officers’ liability insurance covering our officers and directors and those of our subsidiaries for certain claims. In addition, we have provided our directors and officers with letters providing them with exemption and indemnification to the fullest extent permitted under Israeli law.

Israeli Securities Authority Administrative Enforcement

Under the Israeli Securities Law, the Israeli Securities Authority, or ISA, may take certain administrative enforcement actions against a company or a person, including a director, officer or shareholder of a company, if carrying out certain transgressions designated in the Securities Law.
The Securities Law also requires that the chief executive officer of a company supervise and take all reasonable measures to prevent the company or any of its employees from breaching certain provisions of the Israeli Securities Law. The chief executive officer is presumed to have fulfilled such supervisory duty if the company adopts internal enforcement procedures designed to prevent such breaches, appoints a representative to supervise the implementation of such procedures and takes measures to correct the breach and prevent its reoccurrence. The ISA is authorized to impose fines on any person or company breaching certain provisions designated under the Companies Law.
We have adopted several codes and policies, which contain various corporate governance principles, including a Code of Ethics (which includes Whistle Blower procedures), Insider Trading Policy and a Policy Prohibiting Bribery and Corruption, all of which are available on our website at www.gilat.com.  See “Item 16B – Code of Ethics”.

D.
Employees

As of December 31, 2016, we had 1,068 full-time employees, including 259 employees in engineering, research and development, 512 employees in manufacturing, operations and technical support, 76 employees in marketing and sales, 125 employees in administration and finance and 96 in other departments. Of these employees, 318 were based in our facilities in Israel, 104 were employed in the U.S., 430 were employed in Latin America and 216 were employed in Asia, the Far East and other parts of the world. These numbers reflect increase in headcount since December 31, 2015 of 31 employees worldwide.
As of December 31, 2015, we had 1,037 full-time employees, including 280 employees in engineering, research and development, 436 employees in manufacturing, operations and technical support, 91 employees in marketing and sales, 144 employees in administration and finance and 86 in other departments. Of these employees, 303 were based in our facilities in Israel, 100 were employed in the U.S., 408 were employed in Latin America and 226 were employed in Asia, the Far East and other parts of the world. These numbers reflect an increase in headcount since December 31, 2014 of 101 employees worldwide.
As of December 31, 2014, we had 936 full-time employees, including 277 employees in engineering, research and development, 423 employees in manufacturing, operations and technical support, 93 employees in marketing and sales, 97 employees in administration and finance and 46 in other departments. Of these employees, 328 were based in our facilities in Israel, 109 were employed in the U.S., 268 were employed in Latin America and 231 were employed in Asia, the Far East and other parts of the world. These numbers reflect a decrease in headcount since December 31, 2013 of 45 employees worldwide.
We also utilize temporary employees, as necessary, to supplement our manufacturing and other capabilities.

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We provide our employees around the world with fringe benefits in accordance with applicable law and we are subject to various labor laws and labor practices around the world.  Recent rulings by Israel’s National Labor Court and changes to Israel’s largest labor union’s bylaws substantially facilitate the organization of a labor union in companies in Israel. We and our employees are not parties to any collective bargaining agreements and our employees are not represented by any labor union. However, certain provisions of the collective bargaining agreements between the Histadrut (General Federation of Labor in Israel) and the Coordination Bureau of Economic Organizations (including the Manufacturers’ Association of Israel) are applicable to all Israeli employees by order of the Israeli Minister of Economy and Industry. These provisions principally concern the length of the work day and the work week, minimum wages for workers, contributions to a pension fund, insurance for work-related accidents, procedures for dismissing employees, determination of severance pay and other conditions of employment. These provisions are modified from time to time.
Israeli law generally requires severance pay upon termination, resignation in certain instances or death of an employee. Our ongoing severance obligations are partially funded by making monthly payments to approved severance funds or insurance policies, with the remainder accrued as a long-term liability in our consolidated financial statements. In addition, Israeli employees and employers are required to pay specified amounts to the National Insurance Institute, which is, in essence, parallel to the U.S. Social Security Administration. Our permanent employees are generally covered by life and pension insurance policies providing customary benefits to employees, including retirement and severance benefits.
Our U.S. subsidiaries sponsor a retirement plan for eligible employees.  Their 401(k) Plan is a “safe harbor” 401(k) Plan and allows eligible employees to defer compensation up to the maximum amount allowed under the current Internal Revenue Code.  As a “safe harbor plan, our US subsidiaries must make a mandatory contribution to the 401(k) Plan to satisfy certain nondiscrimination requirements under the Internal Revenue Code.  This mandatory contribution is made to all eligible employees.

E.
Share Ownership
Beneficial Ownership of Executive Officers and Directors

Except for Mr. Dov Baharav, none of our directors and executive officers beneficially owns more than 1% of our outstanding shares. Mr. Baharav beneficially owns approximately 2% of our ordinary shares, consisting of 1,068,497 ordinary shares and options to purchase 262,500 ordinary shares exercisable within 60 days from the date of this Annual Report. Additionally, Mr. Ishay Davidi shares voting and dispositive power with Shira and Ishay Davidi Management Ltd. with respect to the shares held by the FIMI Funds, and he controls Shira and Ishay Davidi Management Ltd. as described in Item 7A – “Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions” – “Major Shareholders”.

As of December 31, 2016, our directors and executive officers as a group (16 persons) held options to purchase 1,778,085 of our ordinary shares under our share options plans (described below), exercisable at a weighted average exercise price of $5.08 per share with expiration dates ranging from December 2019 to November 2022.

2008 Share Incentive Plan

In October 2008, our Board of Directors adopted the 2008 Share Incentive Plan, or the 2008 Plan, for issuance of options, RSUs and other forms of equity based awards to our and our subsidiaries’ directors, officers, consultants and employees. The term of the 2008 Plan had been extended by an additional ten-year period, commencing October 2015. Our Board of Directors also adopted a sub-plan to enable qualified optionees certain tax benefits under the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance. F ollowing increases approved by our Board of Directors, the total number of ordinary shares reserved for issuance of options under the 2008 Plan is 5.03 million shares. As of December 31, 2016, we have granted options to purchase 3,571,676 ordinary shares under the 2008 Plan (excluding options that were granted and cancelled), pursuant to which 1,171,676 ordinary shares have been issued as of December 31, 2016.  The exercise prices for the outstanding options range from $3.14 to $6.72 and such options expire at various times from May 2017 to November 2022. As of December 31, 2016, we have granted 1,344,686 RSUs under the 2008 Plan (excluding RSUs that were granted and canceled), pursuant to which, 1,336,586 ordinary shares have been issued as of December 31, 2016 .
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The term of the options granted under the 2008 Plan is six or seven years, depending on the terms of the specific plan and grant letter.

The RSUs and options granted under the 2008 Plan to our executives generally vest quarterly or annually over a four-year period.  The options granted under the 2008 Plan to our directors generally vest ratably each quarter over a three-year period except in the case of the grant to our Chairman of the Board of Directors, in which the options vest ratably each quarter over a four-year period.

The purpose of the 2008 Plan is to enable us to attract and retain qualified persons as employees, officers, directors, consultants and advisors and to motivate such persons by providing them with an equity participation in our company. The Section 102 Plans are designed to afford qualified optionees certain tax benefits under the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance.

The 2008 Plan is administered by the Compensation and Stock Option Committee appointed by our Board of Directors. The Compensation and Stock Option Committee recommends to our Board, or in case of office holders, approves, the persons entitled to receive options and RSUs, the terms and conditions on which options or rights to purchase are granted and the number of shares subject thereto. The grants of options and RSUs are approved by our Board.

Options issued pursuant to the 2008 Plan may be granted to our and our subsidiaries’ directors, officers, consultants and employees. The exercise price of incentive share options issued pursuant to the Plans must be not less than the closing price of our ordinary shares on NASDAQ on the date of grant of the options or, if the closing price is not quoted on such date, on the preceding trading day.

Options are exercisable and restrictions on disposition of shares lapse according to the terms of the applicable plan and of the individual agreements under which such options were granted or awards issued.

ITEM 7:          MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

A.
Major Shareholders

The following table sets forth certain information regarding the beneficial ownership of our ordinary shares, as of March 21, 2017, by each person who we believe beneficially owns 5% or more of our outstanding ordinary shares and all of our directors and executive officers as a group.
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Beneficial ownership of shares is determined under rules of the SEC and generally includes any shares over which a person exercises sole or shared voting or investment power. The percentage ownership of each such person is based on the number of ordinary Shares outstanding as of March 21, 2017 and includes the number of ordinary shares underlying options and RSUs that are exercisable within sixty (60) days from the date of March 21, 2017.  Ordinary Shares subject to these options and RSUs are deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of computing the ownership percentage of the person holding these options and RSUs, but are not deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of computing the ownership percentage of any other person. The information in the table below is based on 54,650,767 Ordinary Shares outstanding as of March 21, 2017.  Each of our outstanding ordinary shares has identical rights in all respects. The information in the table below with respect to the beneficial ownership of shareholders is based on the public filings of such shareholders with the SEC through March 21, 2017 and information provided to us by such shareholders.
Name
Number of
Shares
Percent
FIMI Funds (1)
18,901,865
34.5
%
Itshak Sharon (Tshuva) (2)
6,279,235
11.5
%
Mivtah Shamir Holdings Ltd. (3)
5,375,647
9.8
%
Meitav Dash Investments Ltd. (4)
2,865,219
5.2
%
All directors and executive officers as a group (15 persons) (5)
1,778,085
3.2
%
____________________________________________________

(1)
Based on a Schedule 13D/A filed on April 7, 2016 with the SEC and information provided to our company, FIMI Opportunity IV, L.P., FIMI Israel Opportunity IV, Limited Partnership (the “FIMI IV Funds”), FIMI Opportunity V, L.P., FIMI Israel Opportunity Five, Limited Partnership (the “FIMI V Funds” and together with the FIMI IV Funds, the “FIMI Funds”), FIMI IV 2007 Ltd., FIMI FIVE 2012 Ltd., Shira and Ishay Davidi Management Ltd. and Mr. Ishay Davidi share voting and dispositive power with respect to the 18,901,865 shares held by the FIMI Funds. FIMI IV 2007 Ltd. is the managing general partner of the FIMI IV Funds.  FIMI FIVE 2012 Ltd. is the managing general partner of the FIMI V Funds. Shira and Ishay Davidi Management Ltd. controls FIMI IV 2007 Ltd. and FIMI FIVE 2012 Ltd. Mr. Ishay Davidi controls Shira and Ishay Davidi Management Ltd. and is the Chief Executive Officer of all the entities listed above. FIMI IV 2007 Ltd. is the managing general partner of the FIMI IV Funds.  FIMI FIVE 2012 Ltd. is the managing general partner of the FIMI V Funds. Shira and Ishay Davidi Management Ltd. controls FIMI IV 2007 Ltd. and FIMI FIVE 2012 Ltd. Mr. Ishay Davidi controls Shira and Ishay Davidi Management Ltd. and is the Chief Executive Officer of all the entities listed above. These holdings include options to purchase 100,000 ordinary shares held by FIMI IV 2007 Ltd., which are currently exercisable or are exercisable within 60 days of the date hereof granted to it by our company in connection with the service of its executives, Ishay Davidi and Amiram Boehm, as members of our Board. The principal business address of each of the above entities and of Mr. Davidi is c/o FIMI IV 2007 Ltd., Electra Tower, 98 Yigal Alon St., Tel-Aviv 6789141, Israel.
(2)
Based on information provided to our company on January 2, 2017 and on a Schedule 13G/A filed on April 7, 2016 with the SEC by Itshak Sharon (Tshuva), Delek Group Ltd. and The Phoenix Holding Ltd and other information provided to us by such shareholders. The ordinary shares are beneficially owned by various direct or indirect, majority or wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Phoenix Holding Ltd. (“the Subsidiaries”). The Subsidiaries manage their own funds and/or the funds of others, including for holders of exchange-traded notes or various insurance policies, members of pension or provident funds, unit holders of mutual funds, and portfolio management clients. Each of the Subsidiaries operates under independent management and makes its own independent voting and investment decisions. The Phoenix Holding Ltd. is a majority-owned subsidiary of Delek Group Ltd.  The majority of Delek Group Ltd.’s outstanding share capital and voting rights are owned, directly and indirectly, by Itshak Sharon (Tshuva) through private companies wholly-owned by him, and the remainder is held by the public. The principal business address of Itshak Sharon (Tshuva) and Delek Investments and Properties Ltd. is 7 Giborei Israel Street, P.O.B. 8464, Netanya, 4250407, Israel. The principal business address of the Phoenix Holding Ltd. is Derech Hashalom 53, Givataim, 5345433, Israel.
(3)
Based on a Schedule 13G/A filed on April 7, 2016 by Mivtah Shamir Holdings Ltd. The principal office of Mivtah Shamir Holdings Ltd. is 27 Habarzel Street, Tel-Aviv.
(4)
Based on information provided to our company on January 2, 2017 and on a Schedule 13G/A filed on January 10, 2017, Meitav Dash Investments Ltd. (“Meitav”) is controlled by: (1) BRM Group Ltd. (“BRM Group”) which holds Meitav’s shares through BRM Finance Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of  BRM Group. The shareholders of BRM Group are Messrs. Eli Barkat, Nir Barkat (Messrs. Eli Barkat and Nir Barkat are brothers) and Yuval Rakavy, each holds 33.3% through his controlled companies; and (2) Mr. Zvi Stepak who holds Meitav’s shares through Maya Holdings (Ye’elim) Ltd. (“Maya holdings”) a company which he controls and Nili (Amir) Holdings Ltd. (a wholly owned subsidiary of Maya Holdings). Meitav holds 2,865,219 ordinary shares as follows: (i) 660,995 ordinary shares owned by Mutual Funds of Meitav Dash Investments LTD group; (ii) 1,518,899 ordinary shares owned by Provident Funds of Meitav Dash Investments LTD group; (iii) 622,940 ordinary shares owned by ETFs of Meitav Dash Investments LTD group, and (iv) 62,385 ordinary shares owned by the Portfolio Management of Meitav Dash Investments LTD group. The principal business address of Meitav is 30 Derekh Sheshet Ha-yamim, Bene-Beraq, Israel.
(5)
As of March 21, 2017 all directors and executive officers as a group (15 persons) held 707,081 options that are vested or that vest within 60 days of March 21, 2017.
Significant Changes in the Ownership of Major Shareholders

As of March 26, 2015, our major shareholders were FIMI Funds, holding 15,017,672 ordinary shares (approximately 34.9% ownership), Itshak Sharon (Tshuva), holding 3,904,874 ordinary shares (approximately 9.1% ownership), Meitav Dash Investments Ltd., holding 2,720,162 ordinary shares (approximately 6.3% ownership) and Mivtah Shamir Holdings Ltd. holding 2,216,944 ordinary shares (approximately 5.2% ownership).

As of March 21, 2016, our major shareholders were FIMI Funds, holding 15,042,672 ordinary shares (approximately 33.8% ownership), Itshak Sharon (Tshuva), beneficially owning 5,222,218 ordinary shares (approximately 11.8% ownership), Mivtah Shamir Holdings Ltd. beneficially owning 4,398,256 ordinary shares (approximately 9.9% ownership) and Meitav Dash Investments Ltd. beneficially owning 2,365,786 ordinary shares (approximately 5.3% ownership).

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As of March 21, 2017, our major shareholders were FIMI Funds, beneficially owning 18,901,865 ordinary shares (approximately 34.5% ownership), Itshak Sharon (Tshuva), beneficially owning 6,279,235 ordinary shares (approximately 11.5% ownership), Mivtah Shamir Holdings Ltd. beneficially owning 5,375,647 ordinary shares (approximately 9.8% ownership) and Meitav Dash Investments Ltd. beneficially owning 2,865,219 ordinary shares (approximately 5.5% ownership).

Major Shareholders Voting Rights

The voting rights of our major shareholders do not differ from the voting rights of other holders of our ordinary shares, except to the extent that they hold more than 14% and as such, they will have a right to appoint a director, subject to certain conditions set forth in our Articles of Association.

Record Holders

Based on a review of the information provided to us by our transfer agent, as of March 20, 2017, there were 78 holders of record of our ordinary shares, of which 53 record holders holding approximately 82.39% of our ordinary shares had registered addresses in the U.S.  These numbers are not representative of the number of beneficial holders of our shares nor is it representative of where such beneficial holders reside since many of these ordinary shares were held of record by brokers or other nominees, including CEDE & Co., the nominee for the Depositary Company (the central depositary for the U.S. brokerage community), which held approximately 82.38% of our outstanding ordinary shares as of said date.

B.
Related Party Transactions.
Since 2014, our Board of Directors approved that we enter into several agreements for the purchase of infrastructure, construction and services from C. Mer Industries Ltd., or C. Mer, for an aggregate amount of approximately $25.1 million. FIMI holds approximately 30% of C. Mer’s share capital and our director, Ishay Davidi, is also a member of the board of directors of C. Mer, a publicly traded company (TASE). These transactions were approved by our Audit Committee and Board of Directors in accordance with the requirements of the Israeli Companies Law.

C.
Interests of Experts and Counsel.
Not applicable.

ITEM 8:          FINANCIAL INFORMATION

A.
Consolidated Statements
See the consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto, and the exhibits listed in Item 18 hereof and incorporated herein by this reference.

Export Sales

For information on our revenues breakdown for the past three years, see Item 5: “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects.”

Legal Proceedings

We are a party to various legal proceedings incident to our business. Except as noted below, there are no material legal proceedings pending or, to our knowledge, threatened against us or our subsidiaries, and we are not involved in any legal proceedings that our management believes, individually or in the aggregate, would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or operating results.

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In 2003, the Brazilian tax authority filed a claim against our subsidiary in Brazil, SPC International Ltda, (an inactive company), for the payment of taxes allegedly due by the subsidiary. In January 2004 and December 2005, the subsidiary filed its administrative defense, which was denied by the first and second level Brazilian courts, respectively.  In September 2006, our subsidiary filed an annulment action seeking judicial cancellation of the claim. In May 2009, the subsidiary received notice of the court’s first level decision, which cancelled a significant portion of the claim, but upheld two items of the assessment. Under this decision, the subsidiary’s principal liability was reduced to approximately $1.5 million. This decision was appealed by both the subsidiary and the Brazilian tax authority. In June 2012, the São Paulo Court of Appeals ruled against the inactive subsidiary, accepting the claims of the Brazilian tax authority.  The subsidiary filed various appeals to the Brazilian Superior Court of Justice and to the Brazilian Supreme Court in September 2012 and October 2014, the appeals were not admitted by the São Paulo Court of Appeals and our subsidiary filed appeals on such decision with the Superior Court of Justice.  In February and in March 2016, the Superior Court and the Supreme Court ruled against the subsidiary in final non-appealable decisions. As of December 31, 2016, the total amount of this claim, including interest, penalties and legal fees is approximately $10.1 million, of which approximately $1.2 million is the principal. The Brazilian tax authorities initiated foreclosure proceedings against the subsidiary and certain of its former managers. Pursuant to the court’s decision, published in March 2016, the foreclosure proceedings against the former managers were cancelled. The tax authorities appealed and the matter is pending decision by the State Court.  Based on Brazilian external counsel’s opinion, we believe that the inclusion of any additional co-obligors in the tax foreclosure certificate should be barred due to the applicable statute of limitations and that the foreclosure procedures cannot legally be redirected to other group entities and managers who were not cited in the foreclosure certificate. Accordingly, we believe that the chances that such redirection will lead to a loss recognition are remote.

In October 2014, our Peruvian subsidiary applied to the Chamber of Commerce of Lima, Peru for initiation of arbitration proceedings against the Ministry of Transport and Communications of Peru and FITEL. The arbitration is related to the FITEL projects awarded to us in 2000-2001.  Under these projects, our subsidiary provided fixed public telephony services in rural areas of Peru. Our subsidiary’s main claim is related to damages caused by the promotion of mobile telephony in such areas by the Peruvian government. The arbitral tribunal was established and our subsidiary filed its detailed statement of claim in April 2015, which was followed by a response statement of the Ministry of Transport and Communications of Peru and FITEL in July 2015 supported by a statement by Osiptel, the Peruvian regulator of telecommunications. The proceeding is currently in the evidentiary stage.
We are also a party to various regulatory proceedings incident to our business. To the knowledge of our management, none of such proceedings is material to us or to our subsidiaries.

Dividend Policy

We have never paid cash dividends on our ordinary shares and do not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Israeli law limits the distribution of cash dividends to the greater of retained earnings or earnings generated over the two most recent years, in either case provided that we reasonably believe that the dividend will not render us unable to meet our current or foreseeable obligations when due. Notwithstanding the foregoing, dividends may be paid with the approval of a court, provided that there is no reasonable concern that such dividend distribution will prevent the company from satisfying its current and foreseeable obligations, as they become due. In the event we declare dividends in the future, we will pay those dividends in NIS. Because exchange rates between NIS and the dollar fluctuate continuously, a U.S. shareholder will be subject to currency fluctuation between the date when the dividends are declared and the date the dividends are paid.

B.
Significant Changes
Not applicable.

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ITEM 9:          THE OFFER AND LISTING

A.
Offer and Listing Details
Annual Share Price Information

The following table sets forth, for each of the years indicated, the high and low market prices of our ordinary shares on the NASDAQ Global Select Market and the TASE.
NASDAQ
TASE
Year
High
Low
High
Low
2012
$
5.60
$
2.31
$
5.61
$
2.40
2013
$
6.20
$
4.09
$
6.00
$
4.05
2014
$
5.71
$
4.50
$
5.68
$
4.45
2015
$
7.07
$
3.11
$
6.93
$
3.09
2016
$
5.50
$
3.28
$
5.42
$
3.22

Quarterly Share Price Information

The following table sets forth, for each of the full financial quarters in the years indicated the high and low market prices of our ordinary shares on the NASDAQ Global Select Market and the TASE:
NASDAQ
TASE
High
Low
High
Low
2015
First quarter
$
6.10
$
4.42
$
6.23
$
4.39
Second quarter
$
7.07
$
5.23
$
6.93
$
5.21
Third quarter
$
5.75
$
3.36
$
5.88
$
3.31
Fourth quarter
$
4.06
$
3.11
$
4.10
$
3.09
2016
First quarter
$
4.69
$
3.28
$
4.65
$
3.22
Second quarter
$
4.95
$
4.21
$
5.01
$
4.18
Third quarter
$
5.19
$
4.05
$
5.12
$
4.03
Fourth quarter
$
5.50
$
4.21
$
5.42
$
4.17

2017
First quarter (through March 21, 2017)
$
6.19
$
4.97
$
6.34
$
4.85

Monthly Share Price Information

The following table sets forth, for the most recent six months, the high and low market prices of our ordinary shares on the NASDAQ Global Select Market and the TASE:

NASDAQ
TASE
High
Low
High
Low
October 2016
$
4.87
$
4.33
$
4.86
$
4.33
November 2016
$
4.82
$
4.21
$
4.85
$
4.17
December 2016
$
5.50
$
4.79
$
5.42
$
4.75
January 2017
$
6.18
$
4.99
$
5.70
$
4.85
February 2017
$
6.19
$
4.97
$
6.34
$
5.10
March 2017 (through March 21, 2017)
$
5.49
$
5.00
$
5.42
$
5.04

B.
Plan of Distribution
Not applicable.

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C.
Markets
Our ordinary shares are listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “GILT” and are also traded on the TASE.

D.
Selling Shareholders
Not applicable.

E.
Dilution
Not applicable.

F.
Expense of the Issue
Not applicable.

ITEM 10:
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

A.
Share Capital
Not applicable.

B.
Memorandum and Articles of Association
Set out below is a description of certain provisions of our Articles of Association and of the Israeli Companies Law related to such provisions. This description is only a summary, does not purport to be complete and is qualified by reference to the full text of the Articles of Association, which are incorporated by reference as exhibits to this annual report, and to Israeli law.

Registration and Purposes

We are an Israeli public company registered with the Israel companies register, registration No. 52-003893-6.

Under the Companies Law, a company may define its purpose as to engage in any lawful business and may broaden the scope of its purpose to the grant of reasonable donations for any proper charitable cause, even if the basis for any such donation is not dependent upon business considerations. Our Articles of Association provide that our purpose is to engage in any business permitted by law and that we may also grant reasonable donations for any proper charitable cause.

Powers of the Directors

Under the provisions of the Israeli Companies Law and our Articles of Association, a director cannot vote on a proposal, arrangement or contract in which he or she has a personal interest, nor attend a meeting during which such transaction is considered, except in event of a transaction that is not extraordinary or for the purpose of presenting the proposed transaction, if the chairman of the audit committee or board of directors (as applicable) determines it necessary.  In addition, the terms of office and employment of the directors require the approval of the compensation committee, the board of directors and shareholders.  For more information regarding the requirements for approval of certain transactions, see Item 6B - “Directors, Senior Management and Employees – “Compensation of Directors and Officers”.

Rights Attached to Ordinary Shares

Our authorized share capital consists of 90,000,000 ordinary shares, nominal value NIS 0.2 per share.  All outstanding ordinary shares are validly issued and fully paid.  Certain rights attached to the ordinary shares are as described below.

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Voting Rights . Holders of ordinary shares have one vote for each ordinary share held on all matters submitted to a vote of shareholders. Shareholders may vote in person or by proxy.  These voting rights may be affected by the grant of any special voting rights to the holders of a class of shares with preferential rights that may be authorized in the future by the shareholders.

Dividend and Liquidation Rights; Rights to Shares in our Company’s Profits. Our ordinary shares are entitled to the full amount of any cash or share dividend declared, in proportion to the paid up nominal value of their respective holdings.  In the event of liquidation, after satisfaction of liabilities to creditors, our assets will be distributed to the holders of our ordinary shares in proportion to the paid up nominal value of their respective holdings. Such rights may be affected by a grant of preferential dividend or distribution rights to the holders of a class of shares with preferential rights that may be authorized in the future by the shareholders.

Generally, pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, the decision to distribute dividends and the amount to be distributed, whether interim or final, is made by the board of directors.  Accordingly, under our Articles of Association, our Board of Directors has the authority to determine the amount and time for payment of interim dividends and final dividends.

Under the Israeli Companies Law, dividends may be paid only out of a company’s net profits for the two years preceding the distribution of the dividends, or from accumulated retained earnings, calculated in the manner prescribed in the Israeli Companies Law.  Pursuant to Israeli Companies Law, in any distribution of dividends, our Board of Directors is required to determine that there is no reasonable concern that the distribution of dividends will prevent our company from meeting our existing and foreseeable obligations as they become due.  Our Articles of Association provide that no dividends shall be paid otherwise than out of our profits and that any such dividend shall carry no interest.  In addition, upon the recommendation of our Board of Directors, approved by the shareholders, we may cause dividends to be paid in kind.

Our shareholders have the right to share in our profits distributed as a dividend and any other permitted distribution, if any.

Annual and Special General Meetings

Record Date for General Meeting

Under the regulations promulgated under the Israeli Companies Law, for the purpose of a shareholder vote, the record date for companies traded outside of Israel, such as our company, can be set between four and 40 days before the date of the meeting.

Notice of General Meetings; Omission to Give Notice

The Companies Law provides that a company, the shares of which are traded on an exchange must give notice of a general meeting to its shareholders of record of at least 21 days, and in certain instances at least 35 days prior to the meeting, unless the company’s Articles of Association provide that a notice need not be sent. Accordingly, our Articles of Association provide that not less than 21 days’ prior notice shall be given to shareholders of record of every general meeting of shareholders. They further provide that notice of a general meeting of shareholders shall be given in accordance with any law and otherwise as the Board of Directors may determine. In addition, our Articles of Association provide that no shareholder present, in person or by proxy, at the commencement of a general meeting of shareholders shall be entitled to seek the revocation of any proceedings or resolutions adopted at such general meeting of shareholders on grounds of any deficiency in the notice given for such meeting relating to the time or place thereof.

Annual General Meetings and Special General Meetings

Under Israeli Companies Law, an annual meeting of the shareholders should be held once in every calendar year and not more than 15 months from the last annual meeting. Israeli Companies Law provides that a special meeting of shareholders must be called by the board of directors upon the written request of (i) two directors, (ii) one‑fourth of the serving directors, (iii) one or more shareholders who hold(s) at least five percent of the issued share capital and at least one percent of the voting power of the company, or (iv) one or more shareholders who have at least five percent of the voting power of the company. Within 21 days of receipt of such request, the board of directors is required to convene the special meeting for a time no later than 35 days after notice is given to the shareholders. Our Articles of Association provide that our Board of Directors may call a special meeting of the shareholders at any time and shall be obligated to call a special meeting as specified above.

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Quorum at General Meetings

Under our Articles of Association, the required quorum for any general meeting of shareholders and for any class meeting is two or more shareholders present in person or by proxy and holding at least twenty- five percent (25%) of the issued shares (or of the issued shares of such class in the event of a class meeting). The required quorum in a meeting that was adjourned because a quorum was not present, shall be two shareholders present in person or by proxy. Under our Articles of Association, if the original meeting was called as a special meeting, the quorum in the adjourned meeting shall be one or more shareholders, present in person or by proxy and holding the number of shares required to call such a meeting.

Adoption of Resolutions at General Meetings

Our Articles of Association provide for voting by a written ballot only. In addition, in accordance with Companies Law, our Articles of Association provide that the declaration of the Chairman of the Meeting as to the results of a vote is not deemed to be conclusive, but rather prima facie evidence of the fact. Under our Articles of Association, unless a different majority is required by law, any resolution of the shareholders, except a resolution for voluntary liquidation of the company and, in certain circumstances, a resolution to amend our Articles of Association, shall be deemed adopted if approved by the vote of the holders of a majority of the voting power represented at such meeting in person or by proxy.

Election and Removal of Directors

Under our Articles of Association, the ordinary shares do not have cumulative voting rights in the election of directors.

Under our Articles of Association, our Board of Directors shall consist of not less than five and not more than nine directors as shall be determined from time to time by a majority vote at the general meeting of our shareholders.  Our shareholders have resolved that our Board of Directors shall consist of a total of nine directors, including two external directors.

Our Articles of Association further provide that each beneficial owner of 14% or more of our issued and outstanding ordinary shares shall be entitled to appoint, at each annual general meeting of our shareholders, one member to our Board of Directors referred to as an “Appointed Director”, provided that a total of not more than four Appointed Directors are so appointed.  In the event more than four such qualifying beneficial owners notify us that they desire to appoint an Appointed Director, only the four shareholders beneficially owning the greatest number of shares shall each be entitled to appoint an Appointed Director.

For the purposes of the preceding paragraph, a “beneficial owner” of ordinary shares means any person or entity who, directly or indirectly, has the power to vote, or to direct the voting of, such ordinary shares.  All ordinary shares beneficially owned by a person or entity, regardless of the form which such beneficial ownership takes, shall be aggregated in calculating the number of ordinary shares beneficially owned by such person or entity. All persons and entities that are affiliates (as defined below) of each other shall be deemed to be one person or entity for the purposes of this definition. For the purposes of the preceding paragraph, an “affiliate” means, with respect to any person or entity, any other person or entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with such person or entity.  “Control” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in the Israeli Securities Law – 1968, i.e., the ability to direct the acts of a company. Any person holding one half or more of the voting power of a company of the right to appoint directors or to appoint the chief executive officer is presumed to have control of the company.

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The Articles of Association further stipulate that as a condition to the appointment of an Appointed Director, any appointing shareholder that delivers to our company a letter of appointment shall, prior to such delivery, be required to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission a Schedule 13D, or an amendment to its Schedule 13D if there is any change in the facts set forth in its Schedule 13D already on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission which discloses any such change in its holdings of ordinary shares, regardless of whether any filing or amendment is required to be filed under the rules of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.  In addition, any Appointing Shareholder shall be obligated to notify us in writing of any sale, transfer, assignment or other disposition of any kind of ordinary shares by such appointing shareholder that results in the reduction of its beneficial ownership to below the percentage indicated above, immediately after the occurrence of such disposition of shares but in any event not later than the earliest of (i) ten (10) days thereafter, or (ii) the next Annual General Meeting. Without derogating from the foregoing, so long as an Appointed Director serves on the Board of Directors, the appointing shareholder which appointed such Appointed Director shall provide us, upon our written request at any time and from time to time, with reasonable evidence of its beneficial ownership in our company.

Under our Articles of Association, so long as our ordinary shares are listed for trading on NASDAQ, we may require that any Appointed Director qualify as an “independent director” as provided for in the NASDAQ rules then in effect. In addition, in no event may a person become an Appointed Director unless such person does not, at the time of appointment, and did not, within two years prior thereto, engage, directly or indirectly, in any activity which competes with us, whether as a director, officer, employee, contractor, consultant, partner or otherwise.

Under our Articles of Association, the annual general meeting of our shareholders, by the vote of the holders of a majority of the voting power represented at such meeting in person or by proxy, will elect the remaining members of the Board of Directors. At any annual general meeting at which Appointed Directors are appointed as set forth above, the calculation of the vote of any beneficial owner who appointed a director pursuant to the preceding paragraph shall not take into consideration, for the purpose of electing the remaining directors, ordinary shares constituting 14% of our issued and outstanding ordinary shares held by such appointing beneficial owner.

Appointed Directors may be removed by our Board of Directors when the beneficial ownership of the shareholder who appointed such Appointed Director falls below 14% of our ordinary shares. In addition, the office of an Appointed Director will expire upon the removal of the Appointed Director by the shareholder who appointed such Appointed Director or when the Appointed Director ceases to qualify as an “independent director” as set forth above.

Currently, no shareholder beneficially holding 14% or more of our issued and outstanding ordinary shares has exercised its right to appoint an Appointed Director.

Our Articles of Association further provide that the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares then represented at a general meeting of shareholders shall be entitled to remove director(s) other than Appointed Directors from office (unless pursuant to circumstances or events prescribed under the Companies Law), to elect directors instead of directors so removed or to fill any vacancy, however created, in the Board of Directors. Subject to the foregoing and to early resignation or ipso facto termination of office as provided in our Articles of Association, each director shall serve until the adjournment of the annual general meeting following the general meeting at which such director was elected.

Our directors may, at any time and from time to time, appoint a director to temporarily fill a vacancy on the Board of Directors or in their body (subject to the maximum number of directors in the Board of Directors as set forth above), except that if the number of directors then in office constitutes less than a majority of the number of directors set by the shareholders, as mentioned above, they may only act in an emergency, or to fill the vacancy up to the minimum number required to effect corporate action or in order to call a general meeting for the purpose of electing directors.

Qualification of Directors

Our Articles of Association provide that no person shall be disqualified to serve as a director by reason of such person not holding shares in our company or by reason of not having served as a director in the past. Our directors are not subject, under the Israeli Companies Law or our Articles of Association, to an age limit requirement. Under the Israeli Companies Law, a person cannot serve as a director if such person has been convicted of certain offenses (generally, for 5 years after such conviction, unless specifically authorized by the court), if an administrative decision by the Israel Securities Authority disqualified such director’s nomination to the board of a public company, or if the person has been declared bankrupt.

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Borrowing Powers

The Israeli Companies Law authorizes the board of directors of a company, among other things, to determine the credit limit of a company and to issue bonds. Our Articles of Association state that our Board of Directors may, from time to time, at its discretion, cause us to borrow or secure the payment of any sum or sums of money, and may secure or provide for the repayment of such sum or sums in such manner, at such times and upon such terms and conditions as it deems fit.

Foreign Ownership

Neither our Articles of Association nor Israeli law restrict in any way the ownership of our ordinary shares by nonresidents of Israel, or restrict the voting or other rights of nonresidents of Israel. Notwithstanding, under Israeli law, nationals of certain countries that are, or have been, in a state of war with Israel may not be recognized as owners of ordinary shares, without a special government permit.

Change of Control Provisions Under Israeli Law

The Israeli Companies Law provides that an acquisition of shares in a public company, such as ours, must be made by means of a tender offer, if, as a result of the acquisition, the purchaser would become a holder of 25% or more of the voting rights in the company. This rule does not apply if there is already another holder of 25% percent of the voting rights. Similarly, the Israeli Companies Law provides that an acquisition of the shares must be made by means of a tender offer, if, as a result of the acquisition, a person would become a holder of 45% of the voting rights in the company, unless there is another person holding at that time more than 45% of the voting rights of the company.

The Israeli Companies Law provides for mergers between Israeli companies, if each party to the transaction obtains the appropriate approval of its board of directors and shareholders. A “merger” is defined in the Companies Law as a transfer of all assets and liabilities (including conditional, future, known and unknown liabilities) of a target company to another company, the consequence of which is the dissolution of the target company in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Law. For purposes of the shareholder vote of each merging entity, unless a court rules otherwise, the merger requires the approval of a majority of the shares of that entity that are not held by the other entity or are not held by any person who holds 25% or more of the shares or the right to appoint 25% or more of the directors of the other entity. Our Articles of Association provide that a merger requires the approval of the holders of a majority of the shares voting thereon.

If, however, the merger involves a merger with a company’s own controlling shareholder or if the controlling shareholder has a personal interest in the merger, then the merger is subject to the same special majority approval that governs all extraordinary transactions with controlling shareholders (as described above in Item 6 E under “—Approval of Related Party Transactions Under Israeli Law”). In the event that the merger transaction has not been approved by either of the above-described special majorities (as applicable), the holders of at least 25% of the voting rights of the company may apply to a court for approval of the merger.  The court may approve the merger if it is found that the merger is fair and reasonable, taking into account the valuation of the parties to the merger and the consideration offered to the shareholders.

Upon the request of a creditor of either party to the proposed merger, a court may delay or prevent the merger if it concludes that there exists a reasonable concern that as a result of the merger, the surviving company will be unable to satisfy the obligations of any of the parties of the merger to their creditors.

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A merger may not be completed unless at least 50 days have passed from the date that a proposal of the merger was filed with the Israeli Registrar of Companies by each merging company and 30 days from the date that shareholder approval of both merging companies was obtained.  The merger proposal may be filed once a shareholder meeting has been called to approve the merger.

Modification of Rights Attached to Shares

The rights attached to any class of shares (unless otherwise provided by the terms of issue of such class), such as voting, dividends and the like, may be modified by the affirmative vote of a majority of the issued shares of the class at a general meeting of the holders of the shares of such class.

C.
Material Contracts
While we have numerous contracts with customers and distributors, we do not deem any individual contract to be a material contract that is not in the ordinary course of our business, except as set forth below:
In March and December 2015, the Peruvian government awarded us the Regional FITEL Projects for the construction of networks, operation of the networks for a defined period and their transfer to the government, which are expected to generate aggregate revenues of $393 million to be recognized over approximately 13 years. In accordance with the bid conditions, we established a subsidiary in Peru, GNP, to enter into written agreements with the Peruvian government for each of the four regional projects that were awarded.
In order to guarantee our performance obligations and the down payment we received under the FITEL Projects, we issued bank guarantees and surety bonds for the benefit of FITEL. The bank guarantees were issued by FIBI and HSBC and the surety bonds were issued by Amtrust through a Peruvian insurance company. The aggregate amount of the bank guarantees and surety bonds, as at December 31, 2016, was approximately $125.1 million. We have also provided Amtrust with a corporate guarantee in the amount of approximately $57 million. In addition, we have restricted cash of approximately $21.4 million as collateral for these guarantees.

D.
Exchange Controls
There are no Israeli currency control restrictions on payments of dividends or other distributions with respect to our ordinary shares or the proceeds from the sale of the shares. However, legislation remains in effect pursuant to which currency controls can be imposed by administrative action at any time.

Non-residents of Israel who purchase our securities with non-Israeli currency will be able to repatriate dividends (if any), liquidation distributions and the proceeds of any sale of such securities, into non-Israeli currencies at the rate of exchange prevailing at the time of repatriation, provided that any applicable Israeli taxes have been paid (or withheld) on such amounts.
Neither our Articles of Association nor the laws of the State of Israel restrict in any way the ownership or voting of Ordinary Shares by non-residents of Israel, except with respect to citizens of countries that are in a state of war with Israel.

E.
Taxation
The following is a discussion of Israeli and U.S. tax consequences material to our shareholders.  To the extent that the discussion is based on new tax legislation which has not been subject to judicial or administrative interpretation, the views expressed in the discussion might not be accepted by the tax authorities in question.  The discussion is not intended, and should not be construed, as legal or professional tax advice and does not exhaust all possible tax considerations.

Holders of our ordinary shares should consult their own tax advisors as to the U.S., Israeli or other tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of ordinary shares, including, in particular, the effect of any foreign, state or local taxes.

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ISRAELI TAX CONSIDERATIONS

The following is a summary of certain Israeli income tax and capital gains tax consequences for non-Israeli residents as well as Israeli residents holding our ordinary shares. The summary is based on provisions of the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance (new version), 1961 and regulations promulgated thereunder, as well as on administrative and judicial interpretations, all as currently in effect, and all of which are subject to change (possibly with retroactive effect) and to differing interpretations. There might be changes in the tax rates and in the circumstances in which they apply, and other modifications which might change the tax consequences to you. The summary is intended for general purposes only, and does not relate to all relevant tax aspects. The discussion is not intended and should not be construed as legal or professional tax advice sufficient for decision making. This summary does not discuss all aspects of Israeli income and capital gain taxation that may be applicable to investors in light of their particular circumstances or to investors who are subject to special status or treatment under Israeli tax law.

FOR THE FOREGOING AND OTHER REASONS, YOU ARE URGED TO CONSULT YOUR OWN TAX ADVISOR REGARDING THE TAX CONSEQUENCES OF YOUR HOLDINGS. WE ARE NOT MAKING ANY REPRESENTATIONS REGARDING THE PARTICULAR TAX CONSEQUENCES AS TO ANY HOLDER, NOR ARE WE OR OUR ADVISORS RENDERING ANY FORM OF LEGAL OPINION OR PROFESSIONAL TAX ADVICE AS TO SUCH TAX CONSEQUENCES.

Generally, income of Israeli companies is subject to corporate tax .  The Israeli corporate tax rate effective as of January 1, 2017 is 24%, compared with 25% in 2016 and 26.5% in 2015 and 2014. The corporate tax rate in Israel is scheduled to be further reduced to 23% from January 1, 2018.

Israeli Tax Consequences of Holding Our Stock

Non-Israeli residents

Non-Israeli residents are subject to tax on income accrued or derived from Israeli sources. These include, inter alia, dividends, royalties and interest, as well as other types of income (e.g., from provision of services in Israel). We are required to withhold income tax on any such payments we make to non-residents. Israel presently has no estate or gift tax.

Capital Gains

Israeli law generally imposes tax on capital gains derived from the sale of securities and other Israeli capital assets, including shares in Israeli resident companies, unless a specific exemption is available or a treaty between Israel and the country of the non-resident provides otherwise. Capital gains from sales of our ordinary shares will be tax exempt for non-Israeli residents provided certain conditions are met (one of these conditions is that the gains are not derived through a permanent establishment that the non-resident maintains in Israel).

Subject to the exemptions provided by the Israeli law, as described above, pursuant to the tax treaty between Israel and the U.S., or the Treaty, U.S. residents are generally exempt from Israeli capital gains tax on capital gain derived from the sale of our shares. This exemption does not apply to U.S. residents holding (at the time of the sale or in the preceding 12 months) 10% or more of the voting power in the Company.

Dividends

The statutory withholding tax rate for dividends distributed by an Israeli company to non-resident shareholders is generally 25%. The rate is reduced to 15% for dividends distributed out of income generated by an Approved Enterprise.  A different withholding tax rate may apply as a result of a tax treaty between Israel and shareholder’s country of residence.

Under the Treaty, the maximum Israeli tax rate on dividends paid to a corporate holder of our ordinary shares who is a U.S. resident is 25%. However, dividends paid to a U.S. corporation holding at least 10% of our voting power in the year of the sale and in the entire preceding tax year shall be subject to a 15% tax withholding rate, if the dividend is generated by an Approved Enterprise or 12.5% if the dividends are not generated by an Approved Enterprise.

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Interest

Interest paid by us (e.g., on our convertible notes) is treated as income derived from an Israeli source and is subject to Israeli tax.   Generally, interest payments are subject to withholding of a standard tax rate of 25% (the rate may be reduced to 15% for certain debt instruments), unless reduced pursuant to an applicable tax treaty. In some instances (e.g., where the recipient of the interest is an individual holding 10% or more of our shares or voting rights) a higher tax rate would apply.

Filing of Tax Returns in Israel

Non-Israeli residents who receive interest, dividend or royalty income derived or accrued in Israel, from which Israeli tax was withheld, are generally exempt from Israeli tax filing obligations, provided that:  (i) such income was not derived from a business conducted in Israel, and (ii) the taxpayer has no other taxable sources of income in Israel with respect to which a tax return is required to be filed.

Israeli Residents

Capital Gains

Israeli law imposes capital gains tax on capital gains derived from the sale of securities and other capital assets, including ordinary shares. Generally, gains from sale of ordinary shares acquired prior to January 1, 2012 are subject to a 20% capital gains tax for individuals. The tax rate is increased to 25% for sale of shares by an individual shareholder holding 10% or more of the shares or voting power in the company (i.e., a substantial shareholder). Corporate shareholders are subject to a 25% capital gains tax rate.

Following enactment of the Tax Burden Law, starting January 1, 2012, the capital gains tax rate applicable to individuals upon the sale of our shares is such individual’s marginal (income) tax rate but not more than 25% (or 30% with respect to a substantial shareholder). With respect to corporate investors, the rate of capital gains tax imposed on the sale of shares is equal to the corporate tax rate , which was 26.5% in 2014 and 2015, 25% in 2016 and currently 24% in 2017. The rate will be further reduced to 23%, effective as of January 1, 2018 .

Individual shareholders dealing with securities in Israel are taxed at their marginal tax rates applicable to business income (up to 48% in 2016 and up to 47% from 2017).

In addition, as of January 1, 2013, shareholders that are individuals who have taxable income that exceeds ILS 800,000 in a tax year (linked to the CPI each year - ILS 803,520 in 2016), will be subject to an additional tax, referred to as High Income Tax, at the rate of 2% on their taxable income for such tax year which is in excess of such amount. Starting from January 1, 2017, the High Income tax rate has increased to 3% and its threshold has been lowered to 640,000 ILS. For this purpose taxable income will include taxable capital gains from the sale of our shares and taxable income from dividend distributions.

Dividends

Distribution of dividend income, other than bonus shares (stock dividends), to Israeli residents holding our ordinary shares is generally subject to income tax at a rate of 25% for individuals and 30% for a substantial individual shareholder. Israeli resident corporations are exempt from income tax on dividends, provided the dividend was paid out of income generated in Israel.

Generally, dividends distributed from taxable income accrued during the period of benefits of a Benefitted Enterprise, are taxable at the rate of 15%, if the dividend is distributed during the tax benefit period, or within an additional 12 years after the lapse of that period.

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Interest

Interest income is generally subject to a tax rate of up to 25% for individuals. The rate applicable to an individual who is substantial shareholder is the marginal tax rate. The rate may be reduced to 15% for certain debt instruments. Interest paid to Israeli companies is taxed at the standard corporate income tax rate applicable to companies. We may be required to withhold tax on interest payments up to the applicable corporate tax rate for companies, and in certain instances up to the marginal tax rate for individuals.

Tax Benefits under the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959

Tax benefits under the 2005 Amendment

On April 1, 2005, a comprehensive amendment to the Investment Law came into effect, (the “Amendment”). The Amendment includes revisions to the criteria for investments qualified to receive tax benefits as an Approved Enterprise. The Amendment applies to new investment programs and investment programs commencing after 2004, and does not apply to investment programs approved prior to December 31, 2004.

As a result of the Amendment, it is no longer necessary for a company to apply to the Investment Center in order to acquire Approved Enterprise status. Instead, a company whose facilities meet the criteria for tax benefits set out by the Amendment, may receive the tax benefits afforded to a “Benefitted Enterprise”  by independently selecting the tax year from which the period of benefits under the Investment Law are to commence  and notifying the Israeli Tax Authority within 12 months of the end of that year.

Generally, tax benefits under the Amendment are available to production facilities (or other eligible facilities), that derive more than 25% of their business income from exports. In order to receive the tax benefits, the company must make a certain minimum investment in the acquisition of manufacturing assets such as machinery and equipment. Such investment may be made over a period of no more than three years ending at the end of the year in which the company requested to have the tax benefits apply to its Benefitted Enterprise.

We were eligible under the terms of minimum qualification investment and elected the years 2005 and 2011 to have the tax benefits apply.

Tax benefits are available until the earlier of 7 or 10 years from the date that the period of benefits commenced, and the lapse of 12 years from the first day of the year in which the election was made. Our periods of benefits as a Benefitted Enterprise will expire in 2017 and in 2023.

The tax benefits include exemption from corporate tax on undistributed income for a period of two to ten years, depending on the geographic location of the Benefitted Enterprise within Israel, and a reduced corporate tax rate of 10% to 25% for the remainder of the benefits period, depending on the level of foreign investment in the company. If the company pays a dividend out of income derived from the Benefited Enterprise during the tax exemption period, such income will be subject to corporate tax at the applicable rate (10%-25%) in respect of the grossed up amount of the dividend that we may distribute. We would be required to withhold tax at a rate of 15% from any dividends distributed from income derived from the Benefitted Enterprise.

Benefits under the 2011, 2013 and 2016 Amendments

Under an amendment to the Investment Law effective January 1, 2011, upon an irrevocable election made by the company, a uniform corporate tax rate will apply to all qualifying income of the company, as opposed to the previous law’s tax incentives that were limited to income only from Benefitted Enterprises during their benefit period (Preferred Enterprise). Under the amended law, the uniform tax rate was 7% in geographical areas in Israel designated as Development Zone A and 12.5% elsewhere in Israel in 2013 The uniform tax rate from 2014 and onwards is set to 9% in areas in Israel designated as Development Zone A and 16% elsewhere in Israel.

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A dividend distributed from income which is attributed to a Preferred Enterprise will be subject to withholding tax at the following rates: (i) Israeli resident corporation –0%, (ii) Israeli resident individual – 20% in 2014 and onwards (iii) non-Israeli resident - 20% in 2014 and onwards, subject to a reduced tax rate under the provisions of an applicable double tax treaty.
According to an Amendment from December 2016, a preferred enterprise located in development area A will be subject to a tax rate of 7.5% instead of 9% effective from January 1, 2017 and thereafter (the tax rate applicable to preferred enterprises located in other areas remains at 16%).

Under the transitory provisions of the January 1, 2011 legislation, we may opt whether to irrevocably implement the Amendment and waive benefits provided under the prior law or keep the prior benefits. This decision may be taken at any stage. We will consider in the future whether to opt for the benefits under the Amendment.

Israeli Transfer Pricing Regulations

Israeli transfer pricing legislation generally provides that all cross-border transactions carried out between related parties be conducted on an arm’s length basis and be taxed accordingly.  The transfer pricing regulations are not expected to have a material effect on our company.

United States Federal Income Taxation

The following is a description of the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares. This description addresses only the U.S. federal income tax considerations that are relevant to U.S. Holders (as defined below) who hold our ordinary shares as capital assets. This summary is based on the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code, Treasury regulations promulgated thereunder, judicial and administrative interpretations thereof, and the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty, or the Treaty, all as in effect on the date hereof and all of which are subject to change either prospectively or retroactively. There can be no assurance that the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS, will not take a different position concerning the tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares or that such a position would not be sustained. This description does not address all tax considerations that may be relevant with respect to an investment in our ordinary shares. In addition, this description does not account for the specific circumstances of any particular investor, such as:
·
broker-dealers;

·
financial institutions;

·
certain insurance companies;

·
investors liable for alternative minimum tax;

·
regulated investment companies, real estate investment trusts, or grantor trusts;

·
dealers or traders in securities, commodities or currencies;

·
tax-exempt organizations;

·
non-resident aliens of the United States or taxpayers whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar;

·
persons who hold ordinary shares through partnerships or other pass-through entities;

·
persons who acquire their ordinary shares through the exercise or cancellation of employee stock options or otherwise as compensation for services;

·
direct , indirect or constructive owners of investors that actually or constructively own 10% or more of our shares by vote or value; or

·
investors holding ordinary shares as part of a straddle, appreciated financial position, a    hedging transaction or conversion transaction.
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If a partnership or an entity treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes owns our ordinary shares, the U.S. federal income tax treatment of a partner in such a partnership will generally depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. A partnership that owns our ordinary shares and the partners in such partnership should consult their tax advisors about the U.S. federal income tax consequences of holding and disposing of ordinary shares.

This summary does not address the effect of any U.S. federal taxation (such as estate and gift tax) other than U.S. federal income taxation. In addition, this summary does not include any discussion of state, local or non-U.S. taxation. You are urged to consult your tax advisors regarding the non-U.S. and U.S. federal, state and local tax consequences of an investment in ordinary shares.
For purposes of this summary, as used herein, the term “U.S. Holder” means a person that is eligible for the benefits of the Treaty and is a beneficial owner of an ordinary share who is, for U.S. federal income tax purposes:

·
an individual who is a citizen or, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, a resident of the United States;

·
a corporation or other entity taxable as a corporation created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or any political subdivision thereof;

·
an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or

·
a trust if such trust has validly elected to be treated as a U.S. person for U.S. federal income tax purposes or if (1) a court within the United States is able to exercise primary supervision over its administration and (2) one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all of the substantial decisions of such trust.

Unless otherwise indicated, this discussion assumes that the Company is not, and will not become, a “passive foreign investment company,” or a PFIC, for U.S. federal income tax purposes. See “—Passive Foreign Investment Companies ” below.

Taxation of Distributions
Subject to the discussion below under the heading “—Passive Foreign Investment Companies ,” the gross amount of any distributions received with respect to our ordinary shares, including the amount of any Israeli taxes withheld therefrom, will constitute dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes to the extent of our current and accumulated earnings and profits, as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes.  Because we do not expect to maintain calculations of our earnings and profits under U.S. federal income tax principles, it is expected that the entire amount of any distribution will generally be reported as dividend income to you. Dividends are included in gross income as ordinary income. Distributions in excess of our current and accumulated earnings and profits would be treated as a non-taxable return of capital to the extent of your tax basis in our ordinary shares and any amount in excess of your tax basis will be treated as gain from the sale of ordinary shares. See “ —Disposition of Ordinary Shares ” below for a discussion of the taxation of capital gains. Our dividends would not qualify for the dividends-received deduction generally available to corporations under section 243 of the Code.
Dividends that we pay in NIS, including the amount of any Israeli taxes withheld therefrom, will be included in your income in a U.S. dollar amount calculated by reference to the exchange rate in effect on the day such dividends are received, regardless of whether the payment is in fact converted into U.S. dollars. A U.S. Holder who receives payment in NIS and converts NIS into U.S. dollars at an exchange rate other than the rate in effect on such day may have a foreign currency exchange gain or loss that would be treated as U.S.-source ordinary income or loss. U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors concerning the U.S. tax consequences of acquiring, holding and disposing of NIS.
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Subject to complex limitations, some of which vary depending upon the U.S. Holder’s circumstances, any Israeli withholding tax imposed on dividends paid with respect to our ordinary shares, at a rate not exceeding the applicable rate provided by the Treaty, will be a foreign income tax eligible for credit against a U.S. Holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability (or, alternatively, for deduction against income in determining such tax liability). Israeli taxes withheld in excess of the applicable rate allowed by the Treaty will not be eligible for credit against a U.S. Holder’s federal income tax liability. The limitation on foreign income taxes eligible for credit is calculated separately with respect to specific classes of income.  Dividends generally will be treated as foreign-source passive category income or, in the case of certain U.S. Holders, general category income for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes. Further, there are special rules for computing the foreign tax credit limitation of a taxpayer who receives dividends subject to a reduced tax rate (see discussion below). A U.S. Holder may be denied a foreign tax credit with respect to Israeli income tax withheld from dividends received on our ordinary shares if such U.S. Holder fails to satisfy certain minimum holding period requirements or to the extent such U.S. Holder’s position in ordinary shares is hedged. An election to deduct foreign taxes instead of claiming foreign tax credit applies to all foreign taxes paid or accrued in the taxable year. The rules relating to the determination of the foreign tax credit are complex, and you should consult with your own tax advisors to determine whether and to what extent you would be entitled to this credit.
Subject to certain limitations (including the PFIC rules discussed below), “qualified dividend income” received by a non-corporate U.S. Holder will be subject to tax at the lower long-term capital gain rates (currently at 20%). Distributions taxable as dividends paid on our ordinary shares should qualify for a reduced rate provided that either: (i) we are entitled to benefits under the Treaty, or (ii) our ordinary shares are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States and certain other requirements are met. We believe that we are entitled to benefits under the Treaty and that our ordinary shares currently are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States (see discussion below). However, no assurance can be given that our ordinary shares will remain readily tradable. The rate reduction does not apply unless certain holding period requirements are satisfied, nor does it apply to dividends received from a PFIC (see discussion below), in respect of certain risk-reduction transactions, or in certain other situations. The legislation enacting the reduced tax rate on qualified dividend income contains special rules for computing the foreign tax credit limitation of a taxpayer who receives dividends subject to the reduced tax rate. U.S. Holders of our ordinary shares should consult their own tax advisors regarding the effect of these rules in their particular circumstances.
Sale or Disposition of Ordinary Shares
Subject to the discussion of PFIC rules below, if you sell or otherwise dispose of our ordinary shares, you will generally recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized on the sale or other disposition and your adjusted tax basis in our ordinary shares, in each case determined in U.S. dollars. Such gain or loss will generally be capital gain or loss and will be long-term capital gain or loss if you have held the ordinary shares for more than one year at the time of the sale or other disposition. Long-term capital gain realized by a non-corporate U.S. Holder is generally eligible for a preferential tax rate (currently at 20%). In general, any gain that you recognize on the sale or other disposition of ordinary shares will be U.S.-source for purposes of the foreign tax credit limitation; losses will generally be allocated against U.S. source income. Deduction of capital losses is subject to certain limitations under the Code.
In the case of a cash basis U.S. Holder who receives NIS in connection with the sale or disposition of our ordinary shares, the amount realized will be based on the U.S. dollar value of the NIS received with respect to the ordinary shares as determined on the settlement date of such exchange. A cash basis U.S. Holder who receives payment in NIS and converts NIS into U.S. dollars at a conversion rate other than the rate in effect on the settlement date may have a foreign currency exchange gain or loss, which would be treated as ordinary income or loss.
An accrual basis U.S. Holder may elect the same treatment required of cash basis taxpayers with respect to a sale or disposition of our ordinary shares that are traded on an established securities market, provided that the election is applied consistently from year to year. Such election may not be changed without the consent of the IRS. In the event that an accrual basis U.S. Holder does not elect to be treated as a cash basis taxpayer (pursuant to the Treasury regulations applicable to foreign currency transactions), such U.S. Holder may have a foreign currency gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes because of differences between the U.S. dollar value of the currency received prevailing on the trade date and the settlement date. Any such currency gain or loss would be treated as U.S.- source ordinary income or loss and would be in addition to the gain or loss, if any, recognized by such U.S. Holder on the sale or disposition of such ordinary shares.
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Passive Foreign Investment Companies
We believe that we were not a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes for the taxable year of 2016. However, since PFIC status depends upon the composition of our income and assets and the market value of our assets from time to time, there can be no assurance that we will not be considered a PFIC for any future taxable year. If we were a PFIC for any taxable year during which a U.S. Holder owned an ordinary share (and under proposed Treasury regulations, a right), certain adverse consequences could apply to the U.S. Holder. Specifically, gain recognized by a U.S. Holder on a sale or other disposition of such ordinary share (or right) would be allocated ratably over the U.S. Holder’s holding period for the ordinary share (or right). The amounts allocated to the taxable year of the sale or other disposition and to any year before we became a PFIC would be taxed as ordinary income. The amount allocated to each other taxable year would be subject to tax at the highest rate in effect for individuals or corporations, as appropriate, for that taxable year, and an interest charge would be imposed on the resulting tax liability. Further, any distribution in excess of 125% of the average of the annual distributions received by the U.S. Holder on our ordinary shares during the preceding three years or the U.S. Holder’s holding period, whichever is shorter, would be subject to taxation as described immediately above. Certain elections (such as a mark-to-market election) may be available to U.S. Holders and may result in alternative tax treatment. In addition, if we were a PFIC for a taxable year in which we pay a dividend or the prior taxable year, the favorable dividend rates discussed above with respect to dividends paid to certain non-corporate U.S. Holders would not apply. If we were a PFIC for any taxable year in which a U.S. Holder owned our shares, the U.S. Holder would generally be required to file annual returns with the Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS, on IRS Form 8621.
Additional Tax on Investment Income
In addition to the income taxes described above, U.S. Holders that are individuals, estates or trusts and whose income exceeds certain thresholds will be subject to a 3.8% Medicare contribution tax on net investment income, which includes dividends and capital gains from the sale or exchange of our ordinary shares .

Backup Withholding and Information Reporting
Payments in respect of our ordinary shares may be subject to information reporting to the IRS and to U.S. backup withholding tax at the rate (currently) of 28%. Backup withholding will not apply, however, if you (i) are a corporation, or fall within certain exempt categories, and demonstrate the fact when so required, or (ii) furnish a correct taxpayer identification number and make any other required certification.
Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules may be credited against a U.S. Holder’s U.S. tax liability. A U.S. Holder may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules by filing the appropriate claim for refund with the IRS.
U.S. citizens and individuals taxable as resident aliens of the United States that own “specified foreign financial assets” with an aggregate value in a taxable year in excess of certain thresholds (as determined under rules in Treasury regulations) and that are required to file a U.S. federal income tax return generally will be required to file an information report with respect to those assets with their tax returns. IRS Form 8938 has been issued for that purpose. “Specified foreign financial assets” include any financial accounts maintained by foreign financial institutions, foreign stocks held directly, and interests in foreign estates, foreign pension plans or foreign deferred compensation plans. Under those rules, our ordinary shares, whether owned directly or through a financial institution, estate or pension or deferred compensation plan, would be “specified foreign financial assets.” Under Treasury regulations, the reporting obligation applies to certain U.S. entities that hold, directly or indirectly, specified foreign financial assets. Penalties can apply if there is a failure to satisfy this reporting obligation. A U.S. Holder is urged to consult his tax advisor regarding its reporting obligation.

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Any U.S. Holder who acquires more than $100,000 of our ordinary shares or holds 10% or more in vote or value of our ordinary shares may  be subject to certain additional U.S. information reporting requirements.

The above description is not intended to constitute a complete analysis of all tax consequences relating to acquisition, ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares. You should consult your tax advisor concerning the tax consequences of your particular situation.
F.
Dividend and Paying Agents
Not applicable.

G.
Statement by Experts
Not applicable.

H.
Documents on Display
We are subject to certain of the reporting requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, as applicable to “foreign private issuers” as defined in Rule 3b-4 under the Exchange Act.  As a foreign private issuer, we are exempt from certain provisions of the Exchange Act.  Accordingly, our proxy solicitations are not subject to the disclosure and procedural requirements of Regulation 14A under the Exchange Act, and transactions in our equity securities by our officers and directors are exempt from reporting and the “short-swing” profit recovery provisions contained in Section 16 of the Exchange Act.  In addition, we are not required under the Exchange Act to file periodic reports and financial statements as frequently or as promptly as U.S. companies whose securities are registered under the Exchange Act.  However, we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission an annual report on Form 20-F containing financial statements audited by an independent accounting firm.  We also submit to the Securities and Exchange Commission reports on Form 6-K containing (among other things) press releases and unaudited financial information.  We post our annual report on Form 20-F on our website ( http://www.gilat.com ) promptly following the filing of our annual report with the Securities and Exchange Commission.  The information on our website is not incorporated by reference into this annual report.

This annual report and the exhibits thereto and any other document we file pursuant to the Exchange Act may be inspected without charge and copied at prescribed rates at the Securities and Exchange Commission public reference room at 100 F Street, N.E., Room 1580, Washington, D.C. 20549.  You may obtain information on the operation of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s public reference room in Washington, D.C. by calling the Securities and Exchange Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330.  The Exchange Act file number for our Securities and Exchange Commission filings is 000-21218.

The Securities and Exchange Commission maintains a website at www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding registrants that make electronic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission using its EDGAR (Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval) system.

The documents concerning our company that are referred to in this annual report may also be inspected at our offices located at Gilat House, 21 Yegia Kapayim Street, Kiryat Arye, Petah Tikva, 4913020 Israel.

I.
Subsidiary Information
Not applicable.

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ITEM 11:        QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Foreign Currency Risk

A significant portion of our revenues are generated in U.S. dollars or linked to the dollar. In addition, a substantial portion of our costs are incurred in U.S. dollars. We believe that the U.S. dollar is the primary currency of the economic environment in which our Company and certain of our subsidiaries operate. Thus, the functional and reporting currency of our Company and certain of our subsidiaries is the U.S. dollar.

Accordingly, monetary accounts maintained in currencies other than the U.S. dollar are remeasured into U.S. dollars in accordance with ASC 830, “Foreign Currency Matters” (“ASC 830”). All transaction gains and losses of the remeasurement of monetary balance sheet items are reflected in the consolidated statements of operations as financial income or expenses, as appropriate.

The financial statements of some of our foreign subsidiaries, whose functional currency has been determined to be their local currency, have been translated into U.S. dollars. Assets and liabilities have been translated using the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Statements of operations amounts have been translated using specific rates. The resulting translation adjustments are reported as a component of equity in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).

While a significant portion of our revenues and expenses are generated in U.S. dollars, a portion of our expenses are denominated in NIS, and to a lesser extent, other non-U.S. dollar currencies which lead us to be exposed to financial market risk associated with changes in foreign currency exchange rates. In order to reduce the impact of foreign currency rate volatility of future cash flows caused by changes in foreign exchange rates, we use currency forward contracts. If our currency forward contracts meet the definition of a hedge, and are so designated, changes in the fair value of the contracts will be offset against changes in the fair value of the hedged assets or liabilities through earnings. For derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments, the gain or loss is recognized in current earnings during the period of change. Our hedging reduces, but does not eliminate, the impact of foreign currency rate movements, and due to such movements the results of our operations may be adversely affected.

During the year ended December 31, 2016, we recognized a net loss of $0.3 million related to the effective portion of our hedging instruments. The effective portion of the hedged instruments was included as an offset to payroll expenses in the statement of operations. The ineffective portion of the hedged instrument during the year ended December 31, 2016 was immaterial and was recorded as financial expenses, net.

During 2015 we entered into forward contracts in order to hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows resulting from changes in related foreign currency exchange rates. These contracts did not meet the requirement for hedge accounting. The net amount recorded as financial income (expense) related to these contracts in 2015 and 2016 was $2.1 million and $(0.7) million, respectively.

As of December 31, 2016, the fair value of the liabilities of the outstanding forward contracts that met the requirement for hedge accounting was $0.1 million. There are no outstanding forward contracts that did not meet the requirement for hedge accounting.

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The table below details our balance sheet exposure by currency and interest rates:

Expected Maturity Dates
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021 and thereafter
(In thousands)
Assets:
Restricted cash - in U.S. dollars
58,933
-
-
-
-
Weighted interest rate
0.33
%
-
-
-
-
In other currency
3,295
-
-
-
213
Weighted interest rate
0.85
%
-
-
-
5.89
%
Restricted cash held by Trustees
In other currency
9,058
Weighted interest rate
0.40
%
Liabilities:
Long-term loans (including current maturities)
In U.S. dollars
4,000
4,000
4,000
4,000
4,000
Weighted interest rate
4.77
%
4.77
%
4.77
%
4.77
%
4.77
%
In other currency
617
421
421
90
-
Weighted interest rate
3.23
%
2.75
%
2.75
%
2.75
%
-
ITEM 12:        DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

Not applicable.

PART II

ITEM 13:        DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

None

ITEM 14:        MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Not applicable.

ITEM 15:        CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, after evaluating the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of December 31, 2016, have concluded that, as of such date, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective and ensured that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure and is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over our financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(f) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal financial officers and effected by the company’s board of directors, management and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and includes those policies and procedures that:

·
Pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transaction and dispositions of the assets of the company;

99
·
Provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and

·
Provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use of disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.  Projections of any evaluation of effectiveness for future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Our management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, as of December 31, 2016.  In making this assessment, our management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control-Integrated Framework. Based on that assessment, our management concluded that as of December 31, 2016, our internal control over financial reporting is effective.

The effectiveness of management’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016 has been audited by our company’s independent registered public accountants, Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of Ernst & Young Global. The report, which expresses an unqualified opinion on our company’s internal control over financial reporting, is included with our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

During the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 20-F, no changes in our internal control over financial reporting have occurred that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

ITEM 16:        RESERVED

ITEM 16A:     AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

Our Board of Directors has determined that each of Ms. Cohen and Dr. Lieber meets the definition of an audit committee financial expert as defined by rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Our Board also determined that each of Ms. Cohen and Dr. Lieber is independent under the requirements of the NASDAQ Marketplace Rules. For a brief listing of Ms. Cohen and Dr. Lieber’s relevant experience, see Item 6.A. “Directors, Senior Management and Employees - Directors and Senior Management.”

ITEM 16B:     CODE OF ETHICS

We have adopted a Code of Ethics for executive and financial officers that also applies to all of our employees.  The Code of Ethics is publicly available on our website at www.gilat.com. Written copies are available upon request.  If we make any substantive amendments to the Code of Ethics or grant any waivers, including any implicit waiver, from a provision of this code to our chief executive officer, chief financial officer or corporate controller, we will disclose the nature of such amendment or waiver on our website. Our Code of Ethics includes a whistleblower policy which provides an anonymous means for employees and others to communicate with various bodies within our company, including our Audit Committee.

100
ITEM 16C:     PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

Fees Billed by Independent Auditors

The following table sets forth, for each of the years indicated, the fees billed to us by our independent auditors and the percentage of each of the fees out of the total amount paid to the auditors.

Year Ended December 31,
2016
2015
Services Rendered
Fees
Percentages
Fees
Percentages
Audit fees (1)
$
698,977
91.53
%
$
869,146
91.68
%
Tax fees (2)
$
29,000
3.80
%
$
15,284
1.61
%
Other (3)
$
35,685
4.67
%
$
63,600
6.71
%
Total
$
763,662
100
%
$
948,030
100
%

(1)
Audit fees are fees for audit services for each of the years shown in this table, including fees associated with the annual audit, services provided in connection with audit of our internal control over financial reporting and audit services provided in connection with other statutory or regulatory filings.

(2)
Tax fees are fees for professional services rendered by our auditors for tax compliance, tax planning and tax advice on actual or contemplated transactions.

(3)
Other fees are fees for professional services other than audit or tax related fees, rendered in connection with our business activities; such fees in 2016 were mainly related to the rights offering and in 2015 were mainly related to other services provided in connection with regulatory filings.

Policies and Procedures

Our Audit Committee has adopted a policy and procedures for the approval of audit and non-audit services rendered by our principal accountants, Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer, a Member of Ernst & Young Global and other members of Ernst & Young Global.  The policy generally requires the Audit Committee’s approval of the scope of the engagement of our principal accountants or on an individual engagement basis.  The policy prohibits retention of our principal accountants to perform the prohibited non-audit functions defined in Section 201 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 or the rules of the SEC, and also considers whether proposed services are compatible with the independence of the public auditors.

ITEM 16D.     EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES

Not applicable.

ITEM 16E:     PURCHASE OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

In the year ended December 31, 2016, neither we nor any affiliated purchaser purchased any of our securities.

ITEM 16F: CHANGES IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT

None.

101
ITEM 16G.     CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Under NASDAQ Marketplace Rule 5615(a)(3) or Rule 5615(a)(3) , foreign private issuers, such as our company, are permitted to follow certain home country corporate governance practices in lieu of certain requirements of Listing Rule 5600 Series, with the exception of those rules which are required to be followed pursuant to the provisions of Listing Rule 5615(a)(3).

We have elected to follow Israeli law and practice instead of the requirements of Listing Rule 5600 Series, as described below:

·
The requirement to obtain shareholder approval for the establishment or material amendment of certain equity based compensation plans and arrangements, under which shares may be acquired by officers, directors, employees or consultants. Under Israeli law and practice, the approval of the board of directors is required for the establishment or material amendment of such equity based compensation plans and arrangements. However, any equity based compensation arrangement with a director or the Chief Executive Officer or the material amendment of such an arrangement must be approved by our Compensation and Stock Option Committee, Board of Directors and shareholders, in that order

·
The requirements regarding the director nominations process.  We do not have a nomination committee. Under Israeli law and practice, our Board of Directors is authorized to recommend to our shareholders director nominees for election, and certain of our shareholders may nominate candidates for election as directors by the general meeting of shareholders.

ITEM 16H.     MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE

Not applicable.

PART III

ITEM 17:        FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Not applicable.

ITEM 18:        FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The financial statements required by this item are found at the end of this annual report, beginning on page F-1.
ITEM 19:        EXHIBITS
1.1
Memorandum of Association, as amended. Previously filed as Exhibit 1.1 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2000, which Exhibit is incorporated herein by reference.
1.2
Articles of Association, as amended and restated as of December 29, 2011.  Previously filed as Exhibit 1.2 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2011, which Exhibit is incorporated herein by reference.
4.1
Summary of material provisions of the loan documents between Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. and First International Bank of Israel, dated December 14, 2010.  Previously filed as Exhibit 4.4 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2010, which Exhibit is incorporated herein by reference.
4.2
Summary of material provisions of an amendment dated February 7, 2013 to the loan documents between Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. and First International Bank of Israel, dated December 14, 2010. Previously filed as Exhibit 4.5 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2012, which Exhibit is incorporated herein by reference.
102
4.3
English summary of material provisions of an amendment (in Hebrew) dated August 17, 2015 to the loan agreements between Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. and First International Bank of Israel, dated December 14, 2010. Previously filed as Exhibit 4.3 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2015, which Exhibit is incorporated herein by reference.
4.4
Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. 2008 Share Incentive Plan (including the Israeli Sub-plan to the Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. 2008 Share Incentive Plan), previously filed on April 8, 2009 as Exhibit 4.4 to our Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-158476), and incorporated herein by reference.
4.5
Amendment to Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. 2008 Share Incentive Plan (including the Israeli Sub-plan to the Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. 2008 Share Incentive Plan), previously filed on June 11, 2015 as Exhibit 4.4 to our Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-204867), and incorporated herein by reference.
4.6
Amendment No. 2 to Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. 2008 Share Incentive Plan (including the Israeli Sub-plan to the Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. 2008 Share Incentive Plan), previously filed on April 19, 2016 as Exhibit 4.4 to our Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-210820), and incorporated herein by reference.
4.7
Amendment No. 3 to Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. 2008 Share Incentive Plan (including the Israeli Sub-plan to the Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. 2008 Share Incentive Plan) dated February 13, 2017.
4.8
Amendment No. 4 to Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. 2008 Share Incentive Plan (including the Israeli Sub-plan to the Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. 2008 Share Incentive Plan) dated March 27, 2017.
4.9
Executive Compensation Plan previously filed as Exhibit A to the proxy statement filed on Form 6-K on April 7, 2016, which Exhibit is incorporated herein by reference.
4.10
English translation based on the English version published by FITEL of the Financing Agreement between FITEL and Gilat Networks Peru S.A. dated December 29, 2015, for Broadband Installation for Integral Connectivity and Social Development of the Cusco’s region and a non-literal English translation of the Economic Proposal annexed thereto. Previously filed as Exhibit 4.7 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2015, which Exhibit is incorporated herein by reference.
4.11
English translation based on the English version published by FITEL of the Financing Agreement between the FITEL and Gilat Networks Peru S.A. dated May 27, 2015, for Broadband Installation for Integral Connectivity and Social Development of the Ayacucho’s region and a non-literal English translation of the Economic Proposal annexed thereto. Previously filed as Exhibit 4.8 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2015, which Exhibit is incorporated herein by reference.
4.12
English translation based on the English version published by FITEL of the Financing Agreement between the FITEL and Gilat Networks Peru S.A. dated May 27, 2015, for Broadband Installation for Integral Connectivity and Social Development of the Apurímac’s region and a non-literal English translation of the Economic Proposal annexed thereto. Previously filed as Exhibit 4.9 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2015, which Exhibit is incorporated herein by reference.
4.13
English translation based on the English version published by FITEL of the Financing Agreement between the FITEL and Gilat Networks Peru S.A. dated May 27, 2015, for Broadband Installation for Integral Connectivity and Social Development of the Huancavelica’s region and a non-literal English translation of the Economic Proposal annexed thereto. Previously filed as Exhibit 4.10 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2015, which Exhibit is incorporated herein by reference.
4.14
Copy of Deed of Indemnity dated May 20, 2015 and Deed of Consent dated December 29, 2015, both entered into between Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. and Amtrust Europe Limited. Previously filed as Exhibit 4.11 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2015, which Exhibit is incorporated herein by reference.
4.15
Copy of Memorandum of Understanding and amendment thereto dated December 28, 2015 and January 28 2016, respectively, entered between Gilat Networks Peru SA, and Amtrust Insurance Spain, SL. Previously filed as Exhibit 4.12 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2015, which Exhibit is incorporated herein by reference.
4.16
Summary in English of the material provisions of an amendment (in Hebrew) dated July 13, 2016, and an amendment (in Hebrew) dated December 15, 2016, to the Letter of Undertaking (in Hebrew) dated August 17, 2015 between Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. and First International Bank of Israel Ltd.
103
4.17
Summary in English of the material provisions of the agreement between Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. and HSBC, dated December 18, 2016.
8.1
List of subsidiaries.
12.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
12.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
13.1
Certification by Chief Executive Officer pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
13.2
Certification by Chief Financial Officer pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
15.1
Consent of Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of Ernst & Young Global.
101.INS
XBRL Instance Document *.
101.SCH
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Presentation Linkbase Document.
101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document.
101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Label Linkbase Document.
101.DEF
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
___________________
*
Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, these interactive data files are deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, are deemed not filed for the purposes of Section 18 of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and otherwise are not subject to liability under those sections.

104
S I G N A T U R E S

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD.
By:
/s/ Yona Ovadia
Yona Ovadia
Chief Executive Officer

Date: March 29, 2017

105

GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2016
IN U.S. DOLLARS
INDEX
Page
F-2 - F-4
F-5 - F-6
F-7
F-8
F-9
F-10 - F-12
F-13 - F-53

Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer
3 Aminadav St.
Tel-Aviv 6706703, Israel
Tel: +972-3-6232525
Fax: +972-3-5622555
ey.com
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of

GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. ("the Company") and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Company and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) and our report dated March 29, 2017, expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Tel-Aviv, Israel
/s/ KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER
March 29, 2017
A Member of Ernst & Young Global

F - 2
Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer
3 Aminadav St.
Tel-Aviv 6706703, Israel
Tel: +972-3-6232525
Fax: +972-3-5622555
ey.com
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of

GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD.
We have audited Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. and its subsidiaries' ("the Company") internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on criteria established in Internal Control–Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) ("the COSO criteria"). The Company's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management's Annual Report on internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
F - 3
Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer
3 Aminadav St.
Tel-Aviv 6706703, Israel
Tel: +972-3-6232525
Fax: +972-3-5622555
ey.com
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016 and our report dated March 29, 2017 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Tel-Aviv, Israel
/s/ KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER
March 29, 2017
A Member of Ernst & Young Global

F - 4
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
U.S. dollars in thousands
December 31,
2016
2015
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents
$
40,133
$
18,435
Restricted cash
62,229
100,779
Restricted cash held by trustees
9,058
8,524
Trade receivables, net
89,377
50,984
Inventories
21,469
25,358
Other current assets
17,017
16,223
Total current assets
239,283
220,303
LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS AND RECEIVABLES:
Severance pay funds
7,791
7,545
Other long-term receivables
436
400
Total long-term investments and receivables
8,227
7,945
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET
80,837
81,963
INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET
11,383
17,154
GOODWILL
43,468
43,468
Total assets
$
383,198
$
370,833

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F - 5
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
December 31,
2016
2015
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Short-term bank credit and loans
$
-
$
7,000
Current maturities of long-term loans
4,617
4,542
Trade payables
29,625
17,210
Accrued expenses
53,429
23,481
Advances from customers and deferred revenues
37,659
87,632
Advances from customers held by trustees
7,498
8,515
Other current liabilities
13,846
11,394
Total current liabilities
146,674
159,774
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:
Long-term loans, net of current maturities
16,932
21,493
Accrued severance pay
7,485
7,506
Other long-term liabilities
2,281
3,978
Total long-term liabilities
26,698
32,977
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
EQUITY:
Share capital -
Ordinary shares of NIS 0.2 par value: Authorized: 90,000,000 shares at December 31, 2016
and 2015; Issued and outstanding: 54,592,667 and 44,333,047 shares at
December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively
2,593
2,048
Additional paid-in capital
920,162
884,126
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(3,224
)
(3,727
)
Accumulated deficit
(709,705
)
(704,365
)
Total equity
209,826
178,082
Total liabilities and equity
$
383,198
$
370,833
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F - 6

GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
Year ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
Revenues:
Products
$
214,291
$
128,970
$
157,531
Services
65,260
68,573
77,602
Total revenues
279,551
197,543
235,133
Cost of revenues:
Products
162,563
94,683
106,905
Services
41,498
48,635
44,593
Impairment of long - lived assets
-
10,137
-
Total cost of revenues
204,061
153,455
151,498
Gross profit
75,490
44,088
83,635
Operating expenses:
Research and development, net
24,853
22,412
25,158
Selling and marketing
23,411
24,823
32,537
General and administrative
26,471
18,644
20,903
Restructuring costs
-
1,508
-
Goodwill impairment
-
20,402
-
Total operating expenses
74,735
87,789
78,598
Operating income (loss)
755
(43,701
)
5,037
Financial expenses, net
(4,843
)
(7,243
)
(3,837
)
Income (loss) before taxes on income
(4,088
)
(50,944
)
1,200
Taxes on income
1,252
1,190
1,901
Loss from continuing operations
(5,340
)
(52,134
)
(701
)
Loss from discontinued operations
-
(200
)
(795
)
Loss
$
(5,340
)
$
(52,334
)
$
(1,496
)
Loss per share (basic and diluted):
Continuing operations
$
(0.10
)
$
(1.16
)
$
(0.02
)
Discontinued operations
-
(0.00
)
(0.02
)
Total loss per share
$
(0.10
)
$
(1.16
)
$
(0.04
)
Weighted average number of shares used in computing loss per share:
Basic and diluted
51,970,458
45,026,069
43,777,223
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F - 7
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
U.S. dollars in thousands
Year ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
Loss
$
(5,340
)
$
(52,334
)
$
(1,496
)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments
514
(3,022
)
(2,205
)
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on hedging instruments, net
396
(124
)
(1,791
)
Less - reclassification adjustments for net loss (gain) realized and included in loss
(407
)
839
985
Total comprehensive loss
$
(4,837
)
$
(54,641
)
$
(4,507
)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F - 8
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share data)
Number of
Ordinary shares
Share
capital
Additional
paid-in
capital
Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income (loss)
Accumulated
deficit
Total
equity
Balance as of January 1, 2014
42,125,774
$
1,932
$
873,045
$
1,591
$
(650,535
)
$
226,033
Issuance of restricted share units (RSU)
332,650
19
-
-
-
19
Stock-based compensation of options and RSUs
-
-
2,427
-
-
2,427
Exercise of stock options
272,000
15
1,152
-
-
1,167
Comprehensive loss
-
-
-
(3,011
)
(1,496
)
(4,507
)
Balance as of December 31, 2014
42,730,424
1,966
876,624
(1,420
)
(652,031
)
225,139
Issuance of restricted share units (RSU)
283,175
14
-
-
-
14
Stock-based compensation of options and RSUs
-
-
1,901
-
-
1,901
Exercise of stock options
1,319,448
68
5,601
-
-
5,669
Comprehensive loss
-
-
-
(2,307
)
(52,334
)
(54,641
)
Balance as of December 31, 2015
44,333,047
2,048
884,126
(3,727
)
(704,365
)
178,082
Issuance of shares in a rights offering, net of issuance costs
9,874,170
525
34,560
-
-
35,085
Issuance of restricted share units (RSU)
214,350
11
-
-
-
11
Stock-based compensation of options and RSUs
-
-
908
-
-
908
Exercise of stock options
171,100
9
568
-
-
577
Comprehensive income (loss)
-
-
-
503
(5,340
)
(4,837
)
Balance as of December 31, 2016
54,592,667
$
2,593
$
920,162
$
(3,224
)
$
(709,705
)
$
209,826

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F - 9
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
U.S. dollars in thousands
Year ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Loss
$
(5,340
)
$
(52,334
)
$
(1,496
)
Loss from discontinued operations
-
(200
)
(795
)
Loss from continuing operations
(5,340
)
(52,134
)
(701
)
Adjustments required to reconcile loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities :
Depreciation and amortization
13,108
15,072
15,951
Goodwill impairment
-
20,402
-
Impairment of long lived assets
-
10,137
-
Stock-based compensation of options and RSUs
908
1,901
2,427
Accrued severance pay, net
(267
)
(111
)
300
Accrued interest and exchange rate differences on restricted cash and deposits, net
(442
)
842
858
Exchange rate differences on long-term loans
(43
)
(288
)
(416
)
Capital loss (gain) from disposal of property and equipment
(88
)
82
430
Deferred income taxes, net
4
1
7
Decrease (increase) in trade receivables, net
(37,586
)
4,553
(2,457
)
Decrease (increase) in other assets (including short-term, long-term and deferred charges)
(3,386
)
998
(20,251
)
Decrease (increase) in inventories
2,221
(2,821
)
(445
)
Decrease (increase) in restricted cash directly related to operating activities, net
48,519
(87,004
)
-
Increase (decrease) in trade payables
12,454
(5,133
)
2,226
Increase in accrued expenses
30,149
2,935
5,401
Increase (decrease) in advances from customers
(53,081
)
79,884
(25,935
)
Increase (decrease) in advances from customers held by trustees
(18
)
(2,243
)
14,068
Increase (decrease) in other current liabilities and other long-term liabilities
3,666
(1,860
)
(7,625
)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
10,778
(14,787
)
(16,162
)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F - 10
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
U.S. dollars in thousands
Year ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchase of property and equipment
(4,307
)
(3,930
)
(12,630
)
Investment in restricted cash (including long-term)
(17,001
)
(22,717
)
(12,788
)
Proceeds from restricted cash (including long-term)
7,441
34,120
11,228
Investment in restricted cash held by trustees
(16,200
)
(16,634
)
(24,869
)
Proceeds from restricted cash held by trustees
16,498
21,501
12,306
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
(13,569
)
12,340
(26,753
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Capital lease payments
(309
)
(609
)
(234
)
Issuance of shares in a rights offering, net of issuance costs
35,085
-
-
Issuance of restricted stock units and exercise of stock option
588
5,683
1,186
Payment of obligation related to the purchase of intangible asset
-
(500
)
(500
)
Short-term bank credit and loans , net
(7,000
)
(5,897
)
16,570
Repayment of long-term loans
(4,443
)
(4,544
)
(4,633
)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
23,921
(5,867
)
12,389
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
568
(977
)
(172
)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
21,698
(9,291
)
(30,698
)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year
18,435
27,726
58,424
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
$
40,133
$
18,435
$
27,726
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F - 11
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
U.S. dollars in thousands
Year ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
Supplementary cash flow activities:
(1) Cash paid during the year for continuing operations:
Interest
$
1,448
$
1,507
$
1,681
Income taxes
$
2,105
$
517
$
1,582
(2) Non-cash transactions:
Reclassification from inventories to property and equipment
$
2,452
$
2,519
$
2,857
Reclassification from property and equipment to inventories
$
733
$
114
$
381
Capital lease
$
-
$
26
$
1,123
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F - 12
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands

NOTE 1:-
GENERAL

a.
Organization:

Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (the "Company") and its subsidiaries (the "Group" or "Gilat") is a global provider of end-to-end broadband satellite communication ("Satcom") network solutions and services. Gilat designs, manufactures and provides full network management and equipment for Satcom as well as professional services to satellite operators and service providers worldwide. The equipment consists of very small aperture terminals ("VSATs"), solid-state power amplifiers ("SSPAs"), block up converters ("BUCs"), low-profile antennas and on-the-Move/on-the-Pause terminals. VSATs are earth-based terminals that transmit and receive broadband internet, voice, data and video via satellite. In addition, Gilat provides integrated small cell solutions with its satellite backhaul for the cellular market. Gilat also provides connectivity services, internet access and telephony to enterprise, government and residential customers over its own networks and also over networks which Gilat installs based on Build Operate Transfer (" BOT ") contracts. Additionally, Gilat builds telecommunication infrastructure, typically using fiber-optic and wireless technologies for broadband connectivity.

The Company was incorporated in Israel in 1987 and launched its first generation VSAT in 1989.

The Group's business is managed and reported through three separate reportable segments, consisting of the Group’s Commercial, Mobility and Services divisions. As to the Group's customers, geographic and segment information, see Note 13.

b.
Discontinued operation:

On December 2, 2013, the Company sold its subsidiary, Spacenet Inc. ("Spacenet"), to SageNet of Tulsa, LLC for approximately $ 16,000, subject to certain post-closing adjustments and expenses. The Company recorded a loss of $ 1,385 as a result of this sale. The Company previously provided managed network communications services through Spacenet utilizing satellite wireline and wireless networks and associated technology mainly in the United States. During 2015 and 2014, some of the post-closing adjustments were resolved and consequently the Company incurred additional expenses in their respect of $ 200 and $ 795, respectively, which were accounted as discontinued operations. During 2016, no additional expenses were incurred. Spacenet was previously part of the Services division.

F - 13
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 1:-
GENERAL (Cont.)

c.
The Company depends on a major supplier to supply certain components and services for the production of its products or providing services. If this supplier fails to deliver or delays the delivery of the necessary components or services, the Company will be required to seek alternative sources of supply. A change in suppliers could result in manufacturing delays or services delays which could cause a possible loss of sales and, or, additional incremental costs and, consequently, could adversely affect the Company's results of operations and financial position.
NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("U.S. GAAP"), followed on a consistent basis.

a.
Use of estimates:

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates, judgments and assumptions. The Company's management believes that the estimates, judgments and assumptions used are reasonable based upon information available at the time they are made. These estimates, judgments and assumptions can affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

b.
Functional currency:

The majority of the revenues of the Company and certain of its subsidiaries are generated in U.S. dollars ("dollar") or linked to the dollar. In addition, a substantial portion of the Company's and certain of its subsidiaries' costs are incurred in dollars. The Company's management believes that the dollar is the primary currency of the economic environment in which the Company and certain of its subsidiaries operate. Thus, the functional and reporting currency of the Company and certain of its subsidiaries is the dollar.

Accordingly, monetary accounts maintained in currencies other than the dollar are remeasured into dollars in accordance with ASC 830, "Foreign Currency Matters" ("ASC 830"). All transaction gains and losses of the remeasurement of monetary balance sheet items are reflected in the consolidated statements of operations as financial income or expenses, as appropriate.

The financial statements of certain foreign subsidiaries, whose functional currency has been determined to be their local currency, have been translated into dollars. Assets and liabilities have been translated using the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Statements of operations amounts have been translated using specific rates. The resulting translation adjustments are reported as a component of equity in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).

F - 14
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands

NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

c.
Principles of consolidation:

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries in which the Company has a controlling voting interest and entities consolidated under the variable interest entities ("VIE") provisions of ASC 810, "Consolidation" ("ASC 810"). Inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated upon consolidation.

Most of the activity of Gilat Colombia S.A. E.S.P. ("Gilat Colombia") consists of operating subsidized projects for the Colombian Ministry of Information Technologies and Communications ("Ministry of ITC") through its "Dirección de Conectividad", or DirCon, (formerly known as Compartel Program). The first projects were originally awarded to Gilat's Colombian subsidiaries in 1999 and 2002 and were extended several times. An additional project was awarded to Gilat Colombia by the Ministry of ITC in 2011 and was completed in December 2013. The subsidiary was awarded another project from the Ministry of ITC in 2013 which is ongoing and scheduled to be completed in 2018.

As required in the bid documents for the Ministry of ITC projects, the Group established trusts (the "Trusts") and entered into governing trust agreements for each project (collectively, the " Trust Agreements"). The Trusts were established for the purpose of holding the network equipment, processing payments to subcontractors, and holding the funds received through the subsidy (the "Subsidy") from the government until they are released in accordance with the terms of the Subsidy and paid to Gilat Colombia. The Trusts are a mechanism to allow the Colombian government to review amounts to be paid with the Subsidy and verify that such funds are used in accordance with the transaction document and the terms of the Subsidy. Gilat Colombia generates revenues both from the Subsidy, as well as from the use of the network that it operates.

The Trusts are considered VIEs and Gilat Colombia is identified as the primary beneficiary of the Trusts.

Under ASC 810, the Company performs ongoing reassessments of whether it is the primary beneficiary of the VIE. The assessment of Company's management is that the Company has the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the VIE's activities (it is responsible for establishing and operating the networks), and the obligation to absorb losses of the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE and the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE's economic performance. As such, the Trusts were consolidated in the financial statements of the Company since their inception.

The cash held by the Trusts is consolidated within the financial statements of the Company and classified as "Restricted cash held by trustees". The advances from customers received by the Trusts are consolidated within the financial statements of the Company and classified as "Advances from customers held by trustees".

F - 15
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

d.
Cash equivalents:

Cash equivalents are short-term highly liquid investments that are not restricted as to withdrawals or use with maturities of three months or less at the date acquired.

e.
Short-term and long-term restricted cash:

Short-term restricted cash is either invested in certificates of deposit, which mature within one year, or in short-term highly liquid investments that are restricted to withdrawals or use. As of December 31, 2016, the vast majority of this amount was linked to the dollar. Such certificates of deposit are used as collateral for performance and advance payment guarantees to customers, surety bonds and loans and the lease of the Group's offices, and bear weighted average interest rates of 0.36% and 0.19% as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Long-term restricted cash is primarily invested in certificates of deposit, which mature in more than one year. As of December 31, 2016, the amount is linked to currencies other than the dollar. It bears annual weighted average interest rates of 5.89% and 5.84% as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Such certificates of deposit are used as collateral for performance guarantees to customers, loans and the lease of the Group's offices.

f.
Restricted cash held by trustees:

As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, short-term restricted cash held by trustees is invested in a savings bank account linked to the Colombian Peso. The restricted cash is being released based upon performance milestones as stipulated in the agreements with the Ministry of ITC (see Note 2c).

g.
Inventories:

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Inventory write-offs are provided to cover risks arising from slow-moving items, excess inventories, discontinued products, new products introduction and for market prices lower than cost. Any write-off is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations as cost of revenues . In addition, if required, the Group records a liability for firm non-cancelable and unconditional purchase commitments with contract manufacturers for quantities in excess of the Group's future demands forecast consistent with its valuation of excess and obsolete inventory.

Cost is determined as follows:

Raw materials, parts and supplies - using the weighted average cost method.

Work-in-progress - represents the cost of manufacturing with the addition of allocable indirect manufacturing costs, using the weighted average cost method.

F - 16
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 2:-
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

Finished products - calculated on the basis of raw materials, direct manufacturing costs with the addition of allocable indirect manufacturing costs, using the weighted average cost method.

h.
Property and equipment, net:

Property and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated by the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:

Years
Buildings
50
Computers, software and electronic equipment
3 - 16
Office furniture and equipment
3 - 17
Vehicles
5 - 7

Leasehold improvements are amortized by the straight-line method over the term of the lease or the estimated useful life of the improvements, whichever is shorter.

Equipment leased to others under operating leases is carried at cost less accumulated depreciation and depreciated using the straight-line method over the useful life of the assets. The Group has accounted for its assets which are under a capital lease arrangement in accordance with ASC 840 "Leases " ("ASC 840"). Accordingly, assets under a capital lease are stated as assets of the Group on the basis of ordinary purchase prices (without the financing component), and depreciated according to the usual depreciation rates applicable to such assets. The lease payments payable in forthcoming years, net of the interest component included in them, are included in liabilities. The interest in respect of such amounts is accrued on a current basis and is charged to earnings.

i.
Intangible assets:

Intangible assets subject to amortization are initially recognized based on the fair value allocated to them, and subsequently stated at amortized cost. The assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives using the straight - line method over an estimated period during which benefits are expected to be received, in accordance with ASC 350, "Intangible - Goodwill and Other" ("ASC 350") as the following weighted average in years:

Years
Technology
7.9
Customer relationships
6.8
Marketing rights and patents
12.1

F - 17
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

j.
Impairment of long-lived assets

The Group's long-lived assets and identifiable intangible assets that are subject to amortization are reviewed for impairment in accordance with ASC 360, "Property, Plant and Equipment" ("ASC 360"), whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.

Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to the future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the assets. Such measurement includes significant estimates. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. However, the carrying amount of a group of assets is not to be reduced below its fair value. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell.

During 2015, the Company encountered higher than expected expenses related to its subsidized project for the Ministry of ITC , which resulted in operating and cash flow losses from this project. Consequently, the Company identified an impairment loss of property and equipment, net and long-term deferred charges, which are included in " other assets " in the consolidated balance sheet, in the amount of $ 4,106 and $ 6,031, respectively. The total impairment loss in the amount of $ 10,137 was recorded as part of "Impairment of long - lived assets" within cost of revenues in the consolidated statement of operations and is attributed to the Services division.

In 2014 and 2016, no impairments of long-lived assets were recorded.

k. Goodwill:

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price in a business combination over the fair value of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired. Under ASC 350, goodwill is not amortized, but rather is subject to an annual impairment test. Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying value. The Company performs its annual impairment analysis of goodwill in the fourth quarter of the year, or more often if there are indicators of impairment present.

ASC 350 allows an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the two-step quantitative goodwill impairment test. If the qualitative assessment does not result in a more likely than not indication of impairment, no further impairment testing is required. If it does result in a more likely than not indication of impairment, the two-step impairment test is performed. Alternatively, ASC 350 permits an entity to bypass the qualitative assessment for any reporting unit and proceed directly to performing the first step of the goodwill impairment test.


F - 18
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

The provisions of ASC 350 require that the quantitative two-step impairment test will be performed on goodwill at the level of the reporting units. In the first step, or " Step one ", the Company compares the fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying value. If the fair value exceeds the carrying value of the net assets, goodwill is considered not impaired, and the Company is not required to perform further testing. If the carrying value of the net assets exceeds the fair value, then the Company must perform the second step, or " Step two ", of the impairment test in order to determine the implied fair value of goodwill. To determine the fair value used in Step one, the Company uses discounted cash flows. If and when the Company is required to perform a Step two analysis, determining the fair value of its net assets and its off-balance sheet intangibles, then the Company would be required to make judgments that involve the use of significant estimates and assumptions.

The Company determines the fair value of each reporting unit by using the income approach, which utilizes a discounted cash flow model, as it believes that this approach best approximates the reporting unit's fair value. Judgments and assumptions related to revenue, operating income, future short-term and long-term growth rates, weighted average cost of capital, interest, capital expenditures, cash flows, and market conditions are inherent in developing the discounted cash flow model. The Company considers historical rates and current market conditions when determining the discount and growth rates to use in its analyses. If these estimates or their related assumptions change in the future, the Company may be required to record impairment charges for its goodwill.

Following the existence of impairment indicators during 2015, the Company performed in that year a goodwill impairment test for the two reporting units in the Mobility Division, using the income approach to value the reporting units' fair value. The impairment test resulted in a goodwill impairment of $ 20,402 attributable to the Wavestream reporting unit. This impairment was recorded as a "Goodwill impairment" within operating expenses in the consolidated statement of operations. The material assumptions used for the income approach were five (5) years of projected cash flows, a long-term growth rate of 4% and discount rate of 13%.

In 2014 and 2016, no impairments of goodwill were recorded.

l.
Contingencies

The Company is currently involved in various claims and legal proceedings. The Company reviews the status of each matter and assesses its potential financial exposure. If the potential loss from any claim or legal proceeding is considered probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated, the Company accrues a liability for the estimated loss.

F - 19

GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

m.
Revenue recognition:

The Group generates revenues mainly from the sale of products, which includes construction of networks, services for satellite-based communications networks, connectivity services, internet access and telephony to enterprises, government and residential customers. These services are rendered under large-scale contracts over the Group's networks which are built using the Group's equipment and also over networks which the Group installs based on BOT contracts. These large‑scale contracts sometimes involve the installation of thousands of VSATs or massive fiber-optic networks. Sale of products includes mainly the sale of VSATs, hubs, SSPAs, low-profile antennas, on-the-move/on-the-pause terminals, and construction and installation of large-scale networks based on BOT contracts . Service revenue includes access to and communication via satellites ("space segment"), installation of equipment, telephone services, internet services, consulting, on-line network monitoring, network maintenance and repair services. The Group sells its products primarily through its direct sales force and indirectly through resellers or system integrators. Sales consummated by the Group's sales force and sales to resellers or system integrators are considered sales to end-users.
Revenues from product sales are recognized in accordance with ASC 605-10, "Revenue recognition" and with ASC 605-25 "Multiple-Element Arrangements" ("ASC 605"), when delivery has occurred, persuasive evidence of an agreement exists, the vendor's fee is fixed or determinable, no further obligation exists and collectability is probable. When significant acceptance provisions are included in the arrangement revenues are deferred until the acceptance occurs. Generally, the Group does not grant rights of return. Service revenues are recognized ratably over the period of the contract or as services are performed, as applicable.

When a sales arrangement contains multiple elements, such as equipment and services, the Company allocates revenues to each element based on a selling price hierarchy. The selling price for a deliverable is based on its vendor specific objective evidence (''VSOE'') if available, third party evidence (''TPE'') if VSOE is not available, or estimated selling price (''ESP'') if neither VSOE nor TPE is available. In multiple element arrangements, revenues are allocated to each separate unit of accounting for each of the deliverables using the relative selling prices of each of the deliverables in the arrangement based on the aforementioned selling price hierarchy. Where VSOE or TPE does not exist, the Group establishes ESP based on management judgment, considering internal factors such as margin objectives, pricing practices and historical sales.

Revenue from products under sales-type lease contracts is recognized in accordance with ASC 840 upon installation or upon delivery, in cases where the customer obtains its own or other's installation services. The net investments in sales-type leases are discounted at the interest rates implicit in the leases. The present values of payments due under sales-type lease contracts are recorded as revenue at the time of shipment or installation, as appropriate. Future interest income is deferred and recognized over the related lease term as financial income.
F - 20
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

Revenue from products and services under operating leases of equipment is recognized ratably over the lease period, in accordance with ASC 840.

Revenues from contracts under which the Group provides construction or production of products ("Production-Type Contracts") which are significantly customized to the buyer's specifications are recognized in accordance with ASC 605-35, "Construction-Type and Production-Type Contracts". In Production-Type Contracts under which units of a basic product in a continuous or sequential production process are produced, revenues are recognized based on the units-of-delivery method, recognizing revenue for each unit on the date that unit is delivered. In other Production-Type Contracts, which require significant construction and customization to the customer's specifications, revenues are recognized using the percentage-of-completion method of accounting based on the input measure by using the ratio of costs related to construction performance incurred to the total estimated amount of such costs. The amount of revenue recognized is based on the total fees under the arrangement and the percentage of completion achieved. Provisions for estimated losses on uncompleted contracts, if any, are made in the period in which such losses are first determined, in the amount of the estimated loss on the entire contact.

Deferred revenue and advances from customers represent amounts received by the Group when the criteria for revenue recognition as described above are not met and are included in "Advances from customers and deferred revenues" and "Other long-term liabilities". When deferred revenue is recognized as revenue, the associated deferred charges are also recognized as cost of revenues .

n.
Shipping and advertising expenses:

Selling and marketing expenses include shipping expenses in the amounts of $ 1,367, $ 976 and $ 2,685 for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising expenses amounted to $ 243, $ 181 and $ 273 for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

o.
Warranty costs:

Generally, the Group provides product warranties for periods between twelve to twenty four months at no extra charge. A provision is recorded for estimated warranty costs based on the Group's experience. Warranty expenses amounted to $ 704, $ 864 and $ 361 for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

p.
Research and development expenses:

Research and development costs are charged to the consolidated statements of operations as incurred and are presented net of government grants. ASC 985, "Software", requires capitalization of certain software development costs subsequent to the establishment of technological feasibility.

F - 21
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

Based on the Company's product development process, technological feasibility is established upon completion of a working model. Costs incurred by the Company between completion of the working models and the point at which the products are ready for general release has been insignificant. Therefore, all research and development costs have been expensed.

q.
Research and development grants:

The Group receives royalty-bearing and non-royalty-bearing grants from the Government of Israel and from other funding sources, for approved research and development projects. These grants are recognized at the time the Group is entitled to such grants on the basis of the costs incurred or milestones achieved as provided by the relevant agreement and included as a deduction from research and development expenses.

Research and development grants deducted from research and development expenses amounted to $ 1,624, $ 2,540 and $ 2,477 for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

r.
Accounting for stock-based compensation:

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation in accordance with ASC 718, "Compensation-Stock Compensation" ("ASC 718"). ASC 718 requires companies to estimate the fair value of equity-based payment awards on the date of grant using an option-pricing model. The value of the portion of the award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as an expense over the requisite service period in the Company's consolidated statement of operations.

The Company recognizes compensation expenses for the value of its awards, based on the straight - line method over the requisite service period of each of the awards, net of estimated forfeitures. ASC 718 requires forfeitures to be estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates.

The Company selected the Black-Scholes-Merton option - pricing model as the most appropriate fair value method for its stock options awards and the fair value of restricted share units ("RSUs") based on the market stock price on the date of grant. The option-pricing model requires a number of assumptions, of which the most significant are the expected stock price volatility and the expected option term. Expected volatility was calculated based upon actual historical stock price movements. The expected term of options granted is based upon historical experience and represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The risk-free interest rate is based on the yield from U.S. treasury bonds with an equivalent term. The Company has historically not paid dividends and has no foreseeable plans to pay dividends.

F - 22
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

s.
Income taxes:

The Group accounts for income taxes in accordance with ASC 740, "Income Taxes" ("ASC 740"). ASC 740 prescribes the use of the liability method whereby deferred tax assets and liability account balances are determined based on differences between the financial reporting and the tax basis of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. The Group provides a valuation allowance, if necessary, to reduce deferred tax assets to their estimated realizable value if it is more likely than not that a portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.
The Group implements a two-step approach for recognizing and measuring uncertain tax positions. Recognition (step one) occurs when an enterprise concludes that a tax position, based solely on its technical merits, is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination.

Measurement (step two) is only addressed if step one has been satisfied (i.e., the position is more likely than not to be sustained) otherwise a full liability in respect of a tax position not meeting the more than likely than not criteria is recognized.

Under step two, the tax benefit is measured as the largest amount of benefit, determined on a cumulative probability basis that is more-likely-than-not to be realized upon ultimate settlement.

The Group classifies interest and penalties on income taxes as financial expenses and general and administrative expenses, respectively.

t.
Concentrations of credit risks:

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Group to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, short-term and long-term restricted cash, short-term restricted cash held by trustees and trade receivables.

The majority of the Group's cash and cash equivalents are invested in dollars with major banks in Israel, the United States and South America. Generally, these cash and cash equivalents may be redeemed upon demand and therefore, management believes that they bear lower risk.

The majority of the Group's short-term and long-term restricted cash are invested in dollars with major banks in South America. The Group is entitled to receive the restricted cash generally based upon actual performance of its projects.

The Company also has restricted cash held by trustees, which is invested in Colombian Pesos with major banks in Colombia. As of December 31, 2016, restricted cash held by the trustees amounted to $ 9,058. The Company is entitled to receive the restricted cash held by the trustee in stages based upon operational milestones. The cash held in the trusts is reflected in the Company's consolidated balance sheet as "Restricted cash held by trustees".

F - 23
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands

NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)
Trade receivables of the Group are mainly derived from sales to major customers located in the South and Central America and Asia. The Group performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and obtains letters of credit and bank guarantees for certain receivables. An allowance for doubtful accounts is determined with respect to specific debts that the Group has determined to be doubtful of collection.

u.
Employee related benefits:

Severance pay:

The Company's liability for severance pay for its Israeli employees is calculated pursuant to the Israeli Severance Pay Law based on the most recent salary of the employees multiplied by the number of years of employment, as of the balance sheet date. Employees whose employment is terminated by the Company or who are otherwise entitled to severance pay in accordance with Israeli law or labor agreements are entitled to one month's salary for each year of employment or a portion thereof. The Company's liability for all of its Israeli employees is partly provided for by monthly deposits for insurance policies and the remainder by an accrual. The value of these policies is recorded as an asset in the Company's consolidated balance sheet.
During April and May 2008 (the "transition date"), the Company amended the contracts of most of its Israeli employees so that starting on the transition date, such employees are subject to Section 14 of the Severance Pay Law, 1963 ("Section 14") for severance pay accumulated in periods of employment subsequent to the transition date. In accordance with Section 14, upon termination, the release of the contributed amounts from the fund to the employee shall relieve the Company from any further severance liability and no additional payments shall be made by the Company to the employee. As a result, the related obligation and amounts deposited on behalf of such obligation are not stated on the consolidated balance sheet, as the Company is legally released from severance obligation to employees once the amounts have been deposited, and the Company has no further legal ownership of the amounts deposited.

The carrying value for the deposited funds for the Company's employees' severance pay for employment periods prior to the transition date include profits and losses accumulated up to the balance sheet date. The deposited funds may be withdrawn only upon the fulfillment of the obligation pursuant to the Israeli Severance Pay Law or labor agreements.

Severance pay expenses for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, amounted to $ 2,577, $ 2,407 and $ 2,652, respectively.

F - 24
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

401(k) profit sharing plans:

The Group has a number of savings plans in the United States that qualify under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. U.S. employees may contribute up to 100% of their pretax salary, but not more than statutory limits. Generally, the Group contributes one dollar for each dollar a participant contributes in this plan, in an amount of up to 3% of salary and in addition, in some plans, it contributes fifty cents for each dollar a participant contributes in this plan, for an additional 3%. Matching contributions for all the plans were $ 357, $ 327 and $ 311 for the years ended 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Matching contributions are invested in proportion to each participant's voluntary contributions in the investment options provided under the plan.

v.
Fair value of financial instruments:

The Group applies ASC 820, "Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures" ("ASC 820"). Under this standard, fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e., "the exit price") in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.

In determining fair value, the Group uses various valuation approaches. ASC 820 establishes a hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are inputs that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Group. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect the Group's assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability developed based on the best information available in the circumstances.

The hierarchy is broken down into three levels based on the inputs as follows:

Level 1 -
Valuations based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets that the Company has the ability to access. Valuation adjustments and block discounts are not applied to Level 1 instruments. Since valuations are based on quoted prices that are readily and regularly available in an active market, valuation of these products does not entail a significant degree of judgment.

Level 2 -
Valuations based on one or more quoted prices in markets that are not active or for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.

Level 3 -
Valuations based on inputs that are unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from investment to investment and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, for example, the type of investment, the liquidity of markets and other characteristics particular to the transaction. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment and the investments are categorized as Level 3.
F - 25
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)
The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, trade receivables, other current assets, trade payables, accrued expenses and other current liabilities approximate their fair value due to the short-term maturities of such instruments.

The Group measured the fair value of the forward contracts in accordance with ASC 820 and classified them as level 2. Foreign currency derivative contracts are classified within Level 2 as the valuation inputs are based on quoted prices and market observable data of similar instruments.

w.
Restructuring costs:

The Company accounts for restructuring activities in accordance to ASC 420, "Exit or Disposal Cost Obligations", which requires that a liability for a cost associated with an exit or disposal activity be recognized and measured. During 2015, the Company initiated a restructuring plan to improve its operating efficiency at its various operating sites and to reduce its operating expenses. As a result of the restructuring plan, the Company recorded $ 367 for one-time employee termination benefits and $ 1,141 for costs to terminate a manufacturing contract for the year ended December 31, 2015. All of the expenses accrued under the 2015 restructuring plan were paid during 2015 and 2016.

x.
Loss per share:

In accordance with ASC 260, "Earning per Share ", basic loss per share is computed based on the weighted average number of Ordinary shares outstanding during each period. Diluted loss per share is computed based on the weighted average number of Ordinary shares outstanding during each period, plus dilutive potential Ordinary shares considered outstanding during the period. The total weighted average number of shares related to the outstanding options excluded from the calculations of diluted loss per share, as they would have been anti-dilutive, was 2,227,150, 3,925,236 and 5,546,082 for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

All employee stock options and RSUs were anti-dilutive for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

The loss per share for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 was adjusted, following the rights offering that the Company consummated in March 2016.

y.
Derivatives and hedging activities:

ASC 815, "Derivatives and Hedging" ("ASC 815"), as amended, requires the Company to recognize all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair value. Derivatives that are not hedges must be adjusted to fair value through income (loss). If the derivative is a hedge, depending on the nature of the hedge, changes in the fair value of derivatives are either offset against the change in fair value of the hedged assets, liabilities, or firm commitments through earnings or recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. The ineffective portion of a derivative's change in fair value is immediately recognized in earnings.
F - 26
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)
The Company measured the fair value of the forward contracts in accordance with ASC 820 (classified as level 2).

A subsidiary of the Company entered into forward contracts in order to hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows resulting from changes in related foreign currency exchange rates.

The Company entered into forward contracts to hedge against the risk of changes in future cash flow from payments of payroll and related expenses denominated in New Israeli Shekels ("NIS").

z.
Comprehensive income (loss):

The Company accounts for comprehensive income (loss) in accordance with ASC 220, "Comprehensive Income". Comprehensive income (loss) generally represents all changes in equity during the period except those resulting from investments by, or distributions to, shareholders. The Company determined that its items of other comprehensive income (loss) relate to unrealized gains and losses on hedging derivative instruments and foreign currency translation adjustments.

The following table shows the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), as of December 31, 2016 and 2015:
Year ended December 31, 2016
Foreign currency
translation
adjustments
Unrealized gains
(losses) on cash
flow hedges
Total
Beginning balance
$
(3,636
)
$
(91
)
$
(3,727
)
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications
514
396
910
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income
-
(407
)
(407
)
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)
514
(11
)
503
Ending balance
$
(3,122
)
$
(102
)
$
(3,224
)

F - 27

GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

Year ended December 31, 2015
Foreign currency
translation
adjustments
Unrealized gains
(losses) on cash
flow hedges
Total
Beginning balance
$
(614
)
$
(806
)
$
(1,420
)
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications
(3,022
)
(124
)
(3,146
)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss
-
839
839
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)
(3,022
)
715
(2,307
)
Ending balance
$
(3,636
)
$
(91
)
$
(3,727
)

aa.
Impact of recently issued accounting pronouncements:

In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standard Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). The core principle of the new guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The ASU is effective for the Company in 2018 using either of two methods: (i) retrospective application of ASU 2014-09 to each prior reporting period presented with the option to elect certain practical expedients as defined within ASU 2014-09; or (ii) retrospective application of ASU 2014-09 with the cumulative effect of initially applying ASU 2014-09 recognized at the date of initial application and providing certain additional disclosures as defined per ASU 2014-09 (" Modified Retrospective Adoption Transition Method ").

The Company has established an implementation team and has started analyzing the impact of the guidance. The Company is in the process of reviewing its current accounting policies and practices to identify potential differences that would result from applying the requirements of the guidance to its revenue contracts and related expenses. The Company intends to complete the process during 2017 and adopt the new standard on January 1, 2018 using the Modified Retrospective Adoption Transition Method.

Based on the preliminary evaluations to date, the Company identified several issues that may be treated differently under the new revenue standard, such as: a) Incremental costs of obtaining a contract - Capitalization and amortization of incremental costs of obtaining a contract, such as sales commissions, will be recognized as assets if they are recoverable. The asset will be amortized on a systematic basis consistent with the pattern of the transfer of the goods or services to which the asset relates. Currently, the Company expenses commissions cost as incurred; b) Limitation of revenue recognition to the amount that is not contingent - Currently, the amount allocable to the delivered items is limited to the amount that is not contingent upon the delivery of additional items or meeting a specified performance condition. However, this limitation does not exist under the new standard, which might cause an earlier recognition than current guidance.

F - 28
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)
The foregoing observations are subject to change as the Company completes its evaluation and implementation process.

The FASB has issued, and may issue in the future, interpretive guidance which may cause the Company's evaluation to change. The Company believes it is following an appropriate timeline to allow for proper recognition, presentation and disclosure upon adoption effective the beginning of fiscal year 2018.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting revenue gross versus net) ("ASU 2016-08"), which clarifies the implementation guidance on principal versus agent considerations. In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-10, Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing (Topic 606) ("ASU 2016-10"), which amends its new revenue recognition guidance on identifying performance obligations and accounting for licenses of intellectual property. Both ASU 2016-08 and ASU 2016-10 are effective upon the adoption of ASU 2014-09.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) ("ASU 2016-02"). The new guidance requires lessees to recognize assets and liabilities on the balance sheet for the rights and obligations created by all leases with terms of more than 12 months. ASU 2016-02 also will require disclosures designed to give financial statement users information on the amount, timing, and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. ASU 2016-02 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018 including interim periods within those fiscal years, but early adoption is permitted. The ASU requires a modified retrospective transition approach and provides certain optional transition relief. The Company is currently evaluating when it will adopt this new standard and the expected impact on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-05, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Effect of Derivative Contract Novations on Existing Hedge Accounting Relationships” (“ASU 2016-05”), which clarifies that a change in the counter party to a derivative instrument designated as a hedging instrument does not require designation of that hedging relationship, provided that all other hedge accounting criteria are met. ASU 2016-05 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of an interim period on a modified retrospective basis. The Company does not expect that this new guidance will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting (“ASU 2016-09”). ASU 2016-09 simplifies several aspects of the accounting for employee share-based payment transactions, including the accounting for income taxes, forfeitures, and statutory tax withholding requirements, as well as classification in the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-09 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2016. The impact of adoption on the Company’s consolidated financial statements is not material.

F - 29
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments ("ASU 2016-15"). This new standard clarifies certain aspects of the statement of cash flows, including the classification of debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs or other debt instruments with coupon interest rates that are insignificant in relation to the effective interest rate of the borrowing, contingent consideration payments made after a business combination, proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims, proceeds from the settlement of corporate-owned life insurance policies, distributions received from equity method investees and beneficial interests in securitization transactions. This new standard also clarifies that an entity should determine each separately identifiable source of use within the cash receipts and payments on the basis of the nature of the underlying cash flows. In situations in which cash receipts and payments have aspects of more than one class of cash flows and cannot be separated by source or use, the appropriate classification should depend on the activity that is likely to be the predominant source or use of cash flows for the item. ASU 2016-15 will generally be applied retrospectively and is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early application is permitted. The Company does not expect that this new guidance will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash ("ASU 2016-18"), which requires companies to include amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents in cash and cash equivalents when reconciling beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-18 will be effective for the Company in the first quarter of 2018 and early adoption is permitted. The Company expects the adoption will affect its operating and investing activities in its consolidated statements of cash flow as both activities include material changes in the restricted cash balances.

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Accounting for Goodwill Impairment ("ASU 2017-04"). ASU 2017-04 eliminates Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test, which requires the calculation of the implied fair value of goodwill by assigning the fair value of a reporting unit to all of its assets and liabilities as if that reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination. Instead, an entity will compare the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount and recognize an impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit's fair value. ASU 2017-04 is effective for annual or any interim goodwill impairment tests in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company is currently evaluating the expected impact of the standard on its consolidated financial statements.
F - 30
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 3:-
INVENTORIES

a.
Inventories are comprised of the following:

December 31,
2016
2015
Raw materials, parts and supplies
$
6,461
$
7,084
Work in progress
6,541
7,471
Finished products
8,467
10,803
$
21,469
$
25,358

b.
Inventory write-offs totaled $ 4,833, $ 2,054 and $ 1,002 in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
NOTE 4:-
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET

a.
Composition of property and equipment, grouped by major classifications, is as follows:

December 31,
2016
2015
Cost:
Buildings and land
$
90,564
$
93,499
Computers, software and electronic equipment
44,993
70,590
Equipment leased to others
76,917
73,798
Office furniture and equipment
5,930
7,782
Vehicles
444
436
Leasehold improvements
2,548
2,330
221,396
248,435
Accumulated depreciation and impairment *)
140,559
166,472
Depreciated cost
$
80,837
$
81,963

*)
During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company recorded an impairment loss of $ 4,106. The impairment loss was recorded as reduction of the cost of equipment leased to others and computers, software and electronic equipment in the amount of $ 4,030 and $ 76, respectively.

**)
The Company recorded a reduction of $ 33,299 to the cost and accumulated depreciation of fully depreciated equipment and leasehold improvements that are no longer in use for the year ended December 31, 2016.

F - 31
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 4:-
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET (Cont.)

b.
Depreciation expenses totaled $ 7,337, $ 9,256 and $ 10,091 in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

c.
At December 31, 2016 and 2015, property and equipment under capital leases consisted of assets with depreciable cost of $ 1,121. Accumulated depreciation under capital leases amounted to $ 559 and $ 334 as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

d.
As for pledges and securities, see also Note 11e .
NOTE 5:-
INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET

a.
Composition of intangible assets, grouped by major classifications, is as follows:

December 31,
2016
2015
Original amounts:
Technology
$
42,504
$
42,504
Customer relationships
4,466
4,466
Marketing rights and patents
3,421
3,421
50,391
50,391
Accumulated amortization:
Technology
33,243
28,271
Customer relationships
3,999
3,419
Marketing rights and patents
1,766
1,547
39,008
33,237
$
11,383
$
17,154

b.
Amortization expenses amounted to $ 5,771, $ 5,816 and $ 5,860 for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

c.
Estimated amortization expenses for the following years is as follows:

Year ending December 31,
2017
$
5,674
2018
3,275
2019
911
2020
441
2021 and thereafter
1,082
$
11,383

F - 32
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands

NOTE 6:-
GOODWILL
December 31,
2016
2015
Goodwill *)
$
105,647
$
105,647
Accumulated impairment losses **)
(62,179
)
(62,179
)
$
43,468
$
43,468

*)
The carrying amount of the goodwill is associated with the Mobility Division.

**)
During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company recorded an impairment loss of $ 20,402 (see also note 2k).
NOTE 7:-
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

a.
Lease commitments:

Minimum lease commitments of certain subsidiaries under non-cancelable operating lease agreements with respect to premises occupied by them, at rates in effect subsequent to December 31, 2016, are as follows:

Lease
Year ending December 31,
commitments
2017
$
1,661
2018
1,176
2019
312
$
3,149

Rent expenses during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 were $ 2,568, $ 2,548 and $ 2,966, respectively.

Some of the Group's lease agreements do not include renewal options.

b.
Commitments with respect to space segment services:

The Company provides its customers with space segment capacity services, which are purchased from third parties. Future minimum payments due for space segment services to be rendered subsequent to December 31, 2016, are as follows:

Year ending December 31,
2017
$
7,960
2018
1,878
2019
123
$
9,961
F - 33
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 7:-
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Cont.)

Space segment services expenses during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 were $ 10,278, $ 8,333 and $ 7,913, respectively.

c.
In 2016 and 2015, the Company's primary material purchase commitments were with inventory suppliers. The Company's material inventory purchase commitments are based on purchase orders, or on outstanding agreements with some of the Company's suppliers of inventory. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company's major outstanding inventory purchase commitments amounted to $ 13,494 and $ 14,213, respectively, all of which were orders placed or commitments made in the ordinary course of its business. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, $ 5,530 and $ 3,789, respectively, of these orders and commitments, were from suppliers which can be considered sole or limited in number.

d.
Royalty commitments:

1.
The Company is committed to pay royalties to the Israel Innovation Authority ("IIA"), formerly known as the Office of the Chief Scientist, of the Ministry of Economy of the Government of Israel on proceeds from sales of products resulting from the research and development projects in which the IIA participated with royalty bearing grants. In the event that development of a specific product in which the IIA participated is successful, the Company will be obligated to repay the grants through royalty payments at the rate of 3% to 5% based on the sales of the Company, up to 100% of the grants received linked to the dollar. Grants are subject to interest at a rate equal to the 12 month LIBOR rate. The obligation to pay these royalties is contingent upon actual sales of the products and, in the absence of such sales, no payment is required.

As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company had a contingent liability to pay royalties in the amount of approximately $ 1,237 and $ 749, respectively.

The Company did not pay or accrue any amounts for such royalties during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

2.
Research and development projects undertaken by the Company were partially financed by the Binational Industrial Research and Development Foundation ("BIRD Foundation"). The Company is committed to pay royalties to the BIRD Foundation at a rate of 5% of sales proceeds generating from projects for which the BIRD Foundation provided funding up to 150% of the sum financed by the BIRD Foundation.

The obligation to pay these royalties is contingent on actual sales of the products and in the absence of such sales, no payment is required.

As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company had a contingent liability to pay royalties in the amount of approximately $ 121.

The Company did not pay or accrue any amounts for such royalties during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.
F - 34
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 7:-
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Cont.)

e.
Litigation:

In 2003, the Brazilian tax authority filed a claim against the Company's subsidiary in Brazil (an inactive company), for the payment of taxes allegedly due by the subsidiary. Several legal proceedings with respect to this matter were carried out in the Brazilian courts. These proceedings were concluded with a final unfavorable decision against the subsidiary in February and March 2016. As of December 31, 2016, the total amount of this claim, including interest, penalties and legal fees, is approximately $ 10,100, of which approximately $ 1,200 is principal. Based on the Company's external legal counsel's opinion, the Company believes that any foreclosure procedures against the subsidiary cannot be legally redirected to any of the Group's entities and managers. Accordingly, the chances that such redirection will lead to a loss recognition are remote and therefore, the Company did not record any accrual related to this litigation.

In addition, the Group is in the midst of different stages of audits and disputes with various tax authorities in different parts of the world, specifically in certain jurisdictions in Latin America. Further, the Company is the defendant in various other lawsuits, including employment-related litigation claims and other legal proceedings in the normal course of its business. While the Company intends to defend the aforementioned matters vigorously, it believes that a loss in excess of its accrued liability with respect to these claims is not probable.

f.
Pledges and securities, see Note 11e .

g.
Guarantees:

The Group guarantees its performance to certain customers (generally to government entities) through bank guarantees, surety bonds from insurance companies and corporate guarantees. Guarantees are often required for the Group's performance during the installation and operational periods. The guarantees typically expire when certain operational milestones are met.

As of December 31, 2016, the aggregate amount of bank guarantees and surety bonds from insurance companies outstanding in order to secure the Group's various performance obligations was $ 139,676, including an aggregate of $ 135,844 on behalf of its subsidiaries in Peru. The Group has $ 24,143 of restricted cash to these guarantees.

In accordance with ASC 460, "Guarantees" ("ASC 460"), as the guarantees above are performance guarantees for the Group's own performance, such guarantees are excluded from the scope of ASC 460. The Group has not recorded any liability for such amounts, since the Group expects that its performance will be acceptable. To date, no guarantees have ever been exercised against the Group.

F - 35
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 8:-
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The following table details the fair value of derivative instruments in the consolidated balance sheet:

Fair value of derivative instruments
December 31,
Balance sheet line item
2016
2015
Derivative:
Foreign exchange forward contracts (1)
Other current liabilities
$
-
$
(57
)
Foreign exchange forward contracts (2)
Other current liabilities
$
(102
)
$
(91
)

(1)
To protect against changes in value of forecasted foreign currency cash flows a subsidiary entered into forward contracts in order to hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows resulting from changes in related foreign currency exchange rates. These contracts did not meet the requirement for hedge accounting. The amount recorded as financial income (expense) related to these contracts in 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $ (670), $ 2,116 and $ 1,949, respectively. As of December 31, 2016 there are no outstanding forward contracts that did not meet the requirement for hedge accounting.

(2)
To protect against changes in value of forecasted foreign currency cash flows resulting from salaries and related payments that are denominated in NIS, the Company has entered into foreign currency forward contracts. These contracts are designated as cash flows hedges, as defined by ASC 815, as amended, and are considered highly effective as hedges of these expenses. The forward contracts are expected to occur at various dates within the following twelve months.

During the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, the Company recognized net income (loss) related to the effective portion of its hedging instruments. The effective portion of the hedged instruments has been included as an offset (addition) of payroll expenses and other operating expenses in the consolidated statement of operations in the following line items:

Year ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
Cost of revenues of products
$
(53
)
$
(100
)
$
(107
)
Cost of revenues of services
(24
)
(55
)
(76
)
Research and development, net
(154
)
(291
)
(337
)
Selling and marketing
(72
)
(180
)
(166
)
General and administrative
(90
)
(187
)
(201
)
$
(393
)
$
(813
)
$
(887
)


F - 36
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 8:-
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (Cont.)

The ineffective portion of the hedged instrument which was recorded during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, was immaterial and has been recorded as financial income ( expenses ).
NOTE 9:-
EQUITY

a.
Share capital:
1.
Ordinary shares confer upon their holders voting rights, the right to receive cash dividends and the right to share in excess assets upon liquidation of the Company.

2.
In March 2016, the Company consummated a rights offering, in which the Company granted, at no charge to the holders of the Company's ordinary shares as of the record date for the rights offering, for each nine (9) ordinary shares owned, one non-transferable subscription right to purchase two ordinary shares at a price of $ 7.16 (reflecting a price of $ 3.58 per share). Through this rights offering the Company issued 9,874,170 ordinary shares and raised a gross amount of $ 35,350. Issuance expenses amounted to $ 265.

b.
Stock option plans:

Description of plans :

The Company had three stock option plans, the 2003 Stock Option and Incentive Plans , the 2005 and 2008 Stock Incentive Plans (the "Plans").  The 2003 Plan and the 2005 Plan expired in 2013 and 2012, respectively. As of December 31, 2016 there are no options and RSUs outstanding under the 2003 Plan and the 2005 Plan.
In October 2008, the compensation stock option committee of the Company's Board of Directors approved the adoption of the 2008 Stock Incentive Plan (the "2008 Plan") with 1,000,000 shares or stock options available for grant and a sub-plan to enable qualified optionees certain tax benefits under the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance. Among the incentives that may be adopted are stock options, performance share awards, performance share unit awards, restricted shares, restricted share unit awards and other stock-based awards. In October 2010, April 2012, April 2015 and April 2016, the Company's Board of Directors approved, in the aggregate, a 4,030,000 shares increase in the number of shares available for grant under the 2008 Plan to a total of 5,030,000 shares available for future grants. As of December 31, 2016, an aggregate of 113,638 shares are still available for future grants under the 2008 Plan.

Options granted under the 2008 Plan vest quarterly over two to four years or annually over four years. The options expire after six, seven or ten years from the date of grant. RSUs granted under the 2008 Plan and vest quarterly or annually over four years. Any options or RSUs, which are forfeited or canceled before expiration of the 2008 Plan, become available for future grants.

F - 37
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 9:-
EQUITY (Cont.)

Valuation assumptions:

The Company estimates the fair value of the stock options granted using the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model, which requires a number of assumptions: the expected volatility is based upon actual historical stock price movements; the expected term of options granted is based upon historical experience and represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding; the risk-free interest rate is based on the yield from U.S. Treasury zero-coupon bonds with an equivalent term. The Company has historically not paid dividends and has no foreseeable plans to pay dividends.

Options granted to employees:

The fair value of the Company's stock options granted to employees for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was estimated using the following weighted average assumptions:

Year ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
Risk free interest
1.08%-1.62
%
1.24%-1.61
%
1.43%-1.73
%
Dividend yields
0
%
0
%
0
%
Volatility
33%-35
%
33%-34
%
34%-36
%
Expected term (in years)
4.8
4.8
4.8

No options were granted to non-employees during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

A summary of employee option balances under the 2008 Plan as of December 31, 2016 and changes during the year ended December 31, 2016 are as follows:

Number of options
Weighted-average
exercise price
Weighted- average
remaining
contractual term
(in years)
Aggregate
intrinsic value
(in thousands)
Outstanding at January 1, 2016
1,501,100
$
5.0
4.3
$
74
Granted
1,267,500
$
4.9
Exercised
(171,100
)
$
3.3
Forfeited
(197,500
)
$
5.7
Outstanding at December 31, 2016
2,400,000
$
5.0
4.4
$
380
Exercisable at December 31, 2016
753,081
$
5.1
3.3
$
101
Vested and expected to vest at December 31, 2016
2,270,670
$
5.0
4.4
$
360


F - 38
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 9:-
EQUITY (Cont.)

A summary of employee option balances under the Plans as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 and changes during the years ended on those dates are as follows:

Year ended December 31,
2015
2014
Number
of options
Weighted
average
exercise
price
Number
of options
Weighted
average
exercise
price
Options outstanding at beginning of year
4,431,383
$
5.0
5,374,000
$
5.0
Granted
570,000
$
5.5
600,000
$
5.2
Exercised
(1,307,448
)
$
4.3
(272,000
)
$
4.0
Expired
(1,209,005
)
$
5.7
(21,750
)
$
6.5
Forfeited
(983,830
)
$
5.5
(1,248,867
)
$
5.2
Options outstanding at end of year
1,501,100
$
5.0
4,431,383
$
5.0
Options exercisable at end of year
555,182
$
4.7
3,357,465
$
5.2

The weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted to employees during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $ 1.26, $ 1.46 and $ 1.51, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the total intrinsic value (the difference between the Company's closing stock price on the last trading day of the year 2016 and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options) that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options on December 31, 2016. These amounts change based on the fair market value of the Company's stock. Total intrinsic value of options exercised for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $ 180, $ 1,911 and $ 247, respectively.

The outstanding and exercisable options granted to employees under the 2008 Plan as of December 31, 2016, have been separated into ranges of exercise price as follows:

Options
Weighted
Options
Weighted
outstanding
average
Weighted
exercisable
average exercise
Ranges of
as of
remaining
average
as of
price of
exercise
December 31,
contractual
exercise
December 31,
exercisable
price
2016
life (years)
price
2016
options
$
3.14-4.62
360,000
4.2
$
4.1
104,250
$
4.0
$
4.79-6.72
2,040,000
4.5
$
5.2
648,831
$
5.3
2,400,000
4.4
$
5.0
753,081
$
5.1

Restricted Share Units ("RSUs") granted to employees and non-employees:
The fair value of RSUs is estimated based on the market value of the Company's stock on the date of the award.

F - 39
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 9:-
EQUITY (Cont.)

During 2016, 2015 and 2014, the Company did not grant any RSUs. Previously granted RSUs vest over a four year period. The following table summarizes information regarding the number of RSUs issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 and changes during the years ended on those dates:

Employees:

Year ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
Number of RSUs
Weighted
average
grant date
fair value
Number of RSUs
Weighted
average
grant date
fair value
Number of RSUs
Weighted
average
grant date
fair value
RSUs outstanding at the beginning of the year
244,200
$
4.1
571,625
$
4.1
991,276
$
4.1
Vested
(214,350
)
$
4.0
(281,675
)
$
4.0
(323,650
)
$
4.1
Forfeited
(21,750
)
$
5.0
(45,750
)
$
3.9
(96,001
)
$
4.1
RSUs outstanding at the end of the year
8,100
$
5.8
244,200
$
4.1
571,625
$
4.1

As of December 31, 2016, there were no outstanding RSUs to non-employees.

Additional stock-based compensation data:

As of December 31, 2016, there was $ 1,768 of unrecognized compensation costs related to non-vested stock-based compensation arrangements granted to employees under the 2008 Plan and no unrecognized compensation costs related to non-vested stock-based compensation arrangements granted to non-employees under the 2008 Plan. The cost related to employees is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.52 years.

c.
Dividends:

1.
In the event that cash dividends are declared by the Company, such dividends will be declared and paid in Israeli currency. Under current Israeli regulations, any cash dividend in Israeli currency paid in respect of ordinary shares purchased by non-residents of Israel with non-Israeli currency, may be freely repatriated in such non-Israeli currency, at the exchange rate prevailing at the time of repatriation. The Company does not expect to pay cash dividends in the foreseeable future.
2.
Pursuant to the terms of a loan from a bank (see also Note 11e), the Company is restricted from paying cash dividends to its shareholders without initial approval from the bank.

F - 40
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 10:-
TAXES ON INCOME

a.
Accounting for uncertainty in income taxes:

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

December 31,
2016
2015
Balance at beginning of year
$
871
$
1,214
Reductions for prior years' tax position
(95
)
(343
)
Balance at the end of year
$
776
$
871

The unrecognized tax benefits include accrued penalties and interest of $ 304 and $ 250 as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. During the years ended December 31, 2016, and 2015, the Group recorded income of $ 54 and $ 13 on the reversal of penalties and interest, respectively. The unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 would, if recognized, reduce the annual effective tax rate.

The Group expects a reversal of approximately $ 58 of unrecognized tax benefits in the next 12 months.

The Company and its subsidiaries file income tax returns in Israel and in other jurisdictions of its subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2016, the tax returns of the Company and its main subsidiaries are open to examination by the tax authorities for the tax years 2010 through 2015.

b.
Israeli taxation:

1.
Corporate tax rates:

Generally, income of Israeli companies is subject to corporate tax. The corporate tax rate in Israel, effective as of January 1, 2017, is 24%, compared with 25% in 2016 and 26.5% in 2015 and 2014. The corporate tax rate in Israel is scheduled to be further reduced to 23% from January 1, 2018.

2.
Tax benefits under the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959 ( the " Law"):

Certain production facilities of the Company have been granted 'Benefitted Enterprise' status under the provision of the Law.

The Company was eligible under the terms of minimum qualifying investment and elected 2005 and 2011 as the Years of Election.
Income derived from Benefitted Enterprises is tax exempt for a period of two years out of the period of benefits. Based on the percentage of foreign shareholding in the Company, income derived during the remaining years of benefits is taxable at the rate of 10%-25%.
F - 41
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 10:-
TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

The periods of benefits of the Benefitted Enterprises will expire in 2017 and in 2023. As of December 31, 2016, the Company did not generate income from the Benefitted Enterprises.

The Company does not expect to pay any cash dividends. In the event of distribution of dividends from the above mentioned tax exempt income, the amount distributed would be taxed at a corporate tax rate of 10% to 25%, depending on the level of foreign investment in the Company.
Income from sources other than a "Benefitted Enterprise" during the benefit period is subject to tax at the regular corporate tax rate (26.5% in 2014 - 2015, 25% in, 2016, 24% for 2017 and 23% effective as of January 1, 2018).

On January 1, 2011, new legislation that constitutes a major amendment to the Law was enacted (the "Amendment Legislation"). Under the Amendment Legislation, a uniform rate of corporate tax would apply to all qualified income of certain industrial companies, as opposed to the current law's incentives that are limited to income from "Benefitted Enterprises" during their benefits period. According to the Amendment Legislation, the uniform tax rate during 2013 was 7% in geographical areas in Israel designated as Development Zone A and 12.5% elsewhere in Israel.

The uniform tax rate for 2014 and onwards is set to 9% in geographical areas in Israel designated as Development Zone A and 16% elsewhere in Israel. The profits of these Industrial Companies would be freely distributable as dividends, subject to a 20% withholding tax as of 2015 (or lower, under an applicable tax treaty). The Company is not located in Development Zone A.

According to an Amendment from December 2016, a preferred enterprise located in development area A will be subject to a tax rate of 7.5% instead of 9% effective from January 1, 2017 and thereafter (the tax rate applicable to preferred enterprises located in other areas remains at 16%).

Under the transitory provisions of the Amendment Legislation, the Company may elect whether to irrevocably implement the new law in its Israeli company while waiving benefits provided under the current law or keep implementing the current law during the next years. Changing from the current law to the new law is permissible at any stage. The Company is examining the possible effect of the Amendment Legislation on its results.

The Amendment also prescribes special tax tracks for technological enterprises, which are subject to rules that are to be issued by the Minister of Finance by March 31, 2017.

F - 42
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 10:-
TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

The new tax tracks under the Amendment are as follows:

Technological preferred enterprise - an enterprise for which total consolidated revenues of its parent company and all subsidiaries are less than NIS 10 billion. A technological preferred enterprise, as defined in the Law, which is located in the center of Israel will be subject to tax at a rate of 12% on profits deriving from intellectual property (in development area A - a tax rate of 7.5%).

Special technological preferred enterprise - an enterprise for which total consolidated revenues of its parent company and all subsidiaries exceed NIS 10 billion. Such enterprise will be subject to tax at a rate of 6% on profits deriving from intellectual property, regardless of the enterprise's geographical location.

Any dividends distributed to "foreign companies", as defined in the Law, deriving from income from the technological enterprises will be subject to tax at a rate of 4%.
The definitive criteria to determine the tax benefits were not established as of December 31, 2016 and the related regulations are expected to be issued by March 31, 2017. Accordingly, the above changes in the tax rates relating to technological enterprises were not taken into account in the computation of deferred taxes as of December 31, 2016.

c.
Income taxes on non-Israeli subsidiaries:

Non-Israeli subsidiaries are taxed according to the tax laws in their respective domiciles of residence. The Company has not made any provisions relating to undistributed earnings of the Company's foreign subsidiaries since the Company has no current plans to distribute such earnings. If earnings are distributed to Israel in the form of dividends or otherwise, the Company may be subject to additional Israeli income taxes (subject to an adjustment for foreign tax credits) and foreign withholding taxes. It is not practicable to determine the amount of the unrecognized deferred tax liability for temporary differences related to investments in foreign subsidiaries.

d.
Carryforward tax losses and credits:

As of December 31, 2016, the Company had operating loss carry forwards for Israeli income tax purposes of approximately $ 87,000, which may be offset indefinitely against future taxable income.

The Company's U.S. subsidiaries had carryforward tax losses of approximately $ 30,000 as of December 31, 2016. Utilization of U.S. net operating losses may be subject to substantial annual limitation due to the "change in ownership" provisions of Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and similar state provisions. The annual limitations may result in the expiration of net operating loss before utilization. In the U.S., carryforward tax losses can be utilized within 20 years.

F - 43
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 10:-
TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

The Group has carryforward tax losses relating to other subsidiaries in Europe and Latin America of approximately $ 10,000 (which can be utilized within 9 years) and $ 30,000 ($ 12,000 can be utilized within 4 years and $ 18,000 can be utilized indefinitely), as of December 31, 2016 respectively.

e.
Deferred income taxes:

Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Significant components of the Group’s deferred tax liabilities and assets are as follows:
December 31,
2016
2015
1.
Provided in respect of the following:
Carryforward tax losses
$
39,734
$
30,352
Temporary differences relating to property, equipment and intangibles
3,936
3,980
Other
9,458
7,448
Gross deferred tax assets
53,128
41,780
Valuation allowance
(48,225
)
(36,393
)
Net deferred tax assets
4,903
5,387
Gross deferred tax liabilities
Temporary differences relating to property, equipment and intangibles
(4,839
)
(5,319
)
Net deferred tax assets (foreign)
$
64
$
68
2.
Deferred taxes are included in the consolidated balance sheets, as follows:
Current assets
$
64
$
68

3.
As of December 31, 2016, the Group increased the valuation allowance by $ 11,832, resulting from changes in temporary differences relating to property, equipment and intangibles and from carryforward tax losses. The Company provided valuation allowance for a significant portion of the deferred tax regarding the carryforwards losses and other temporary differences that management believes is not expected to be realized in the foreseeable future.
F - 44
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 10:-
TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

4.
The functional and reporting currency of the Company and certain of its subsidiaries is the dollar. The difference between the annual changes in the NIS/dollar exchange rate causes a further difference between taxable income and the income before taxes shown in the financial statements. In accordance with ASC 740, the Company has not provided deferred income taxes on the difference between the functional currency and the tax basis of assets and liabilities.

f.
Reconciling items between the statutory tax rate of the Company and the effective tax rate:

Year ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
Income (loss) before taxes on income from continuing operations , as reported in the consolidated statements of operations
$
(4,088
)
$
(50,944
)
$ 1,200
Statutory tax rate
25.0
%
26.5
%
26.5
%
Theoretical tax expenses (income) on the above amount at the Israeli statutory tax rate
$
(1,022
)
$
(13,500
)
$
318
Currency differences
(2,174
)
1,709
2,545
Tax adjustment in respect of different tax rates and "Benefitted Enterprise" status
(5,580
)
(131
)
1,425
Changes in valuation allowance
11,832
6,273
(14,781
)
Forfeiture of carryforward tax losses
261
929
13,549
Wavestream goodwill impairment
-
6,937
-
Exempt revenues - subsidy
(4,224
)
(2,573
)
(2,561
)
Nondeductible expenses and other differences
2,159
1,546
1,406
$
1,252
$
1,190
$
1,901

g.
Taxes on income included in the consolidated statements of operations:

Year ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
Current
$
1,233
$
1,108
$
1,562
Prior years
15
81
332
Deferred
4
1
7
$
1,252
$
1,190
$
1,901
Domestic
$
555
$
679
$
800
Foreign
697
511
1,101
$
1,252
$
1,190
$
1,901
F - 45
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 10:-
TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

h.
Income (loss) before taxes on income from continuing operations:

Year ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
Domestic
$
(8,056
)
$
(12,273
)
$
(9,568
)
Foreign
3,968
(38,671
)
10,768
$
(4,088
)
$
(50,944
)
$
1,200

i.
Tax assessments:

The Company's tax assessments through 2012 are considered final. The Company is currently undergoing a tax assessment audit by the Israeli Tax Authority for the 2013 and 2014 tax years.
NOTE 11:-
SUPPLEMENTARY CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION

a.
Trade receivables, net:
December 31,
2016
2015
Billed
$
57,320
$
53,150
Unbilled *)
41,713
-
99,033
53,150
Less - Allowance for doubtful accounts
(9,656
)
(2,166
)
$
89,377
$
50,984
*) The unbilled amount was recognized based on the progress of the construction phase of a large-scale project in Peru (the "Project"). As part of the construction phase, the Company's subsidiary in Peru deploys a wireless network in rural areas. The Project is accounted as a Production-Type Contract using the percentage-of-completion method. The unbilled amount, for which the Company has enforceable rights, will become due at the time the first milestone is reached. The milestone occurs upon the completion of certain objective, representing the progress of the project, which vary between the different areas and type of networks.

F - 46
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 11:-
SUPPLEMENTARY CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION  (Cont.)

b.
Other current assets:

December 31,
2016
2015
Governmental authorities
$
6,184
$
3,785
Prepaid expenses
3,784
4,765
Deferred charges
3,817
2,316
Employees
90
96
Grants receivable
276
1,540
Advance payments to suppliers
1,824
2,875
Deferred taxes
64
68
Other
978
778
$
17,017
$
16,223

c.
Short-term bank credit and loans:

The following is classified by currency and interest rates:
Weighted average
interest rate
December 31,
December 31,
2016
2015
2016
2015
%
In U.S. dollars
-
1.05
-
$
7,000

d.
Other current liabilities:
December 31,
2016
2015
Payroll and related employee accruals
$
10,971
$
9,037
Derivative instruments
103
148
Government authorities
585
1,167
Other
2,187
1,042
$
13,846
$
11,394


F - 47
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 11:-
SUPPLEMENTARY CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION  (Cont.)
e. Long-term loans:

Interest rate for
December 31,
2016
2015
2016
2015
Linkage
%
Maturity
Loans from banks:
(a)
U.S. dollars
4.77
4.77
2017-2022
$
20,000
$
24,000
(b)
Euro
EURIBOR +2.75
EURIBOR +2.75
2017-2020

1,458
1,835
(c)
Euro
6.0
6.0
2017
91
200
21,549
26,035
Less - current maturities
4,617
4,542
$
16,932
$
21,493

(a)
The Company entered into a loan agreement with an Israeli bank. The loan is secured by a floating charge on the assets of the Company, and is further secured by a fixed pledge (mortgage) on the Company's real estate in Israel. In addition, there are financial covenants associated with the loan. As of December 31, 2016 the Company is in compliance with these covenants.

(b)
A Dutch subsidiary of the Company entered into a mortgage and loan agreement with a German bank. The amount of the mortgage is collateralized by the subsidiary's facilities in Germany.

(c)
Raysat BG entered into a mortgage business loan with a Bulgarian bank. The amount of the mortgage is collateralized by Raysat BG’s building in Bulgaria.

f.
Long-term debt maturities for loans after December 31, 2016, are as follows:

Year ending December 31,
2017
$
4,617
2018
4,421
2019
4,421
2020
4,090
2021 and thereafter
4,000
$
21,549

Interest expenses on the long-term loans amounted to $ 1,066, $ 1,237 and $ 1,553 for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

F - 48
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 11:-
SUPPLEMENTARY CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION  (Cont.)

g.
Other long-term liabilities:

December 31,
2016
2015
Long-term tax accrual
$
776
$
871
Deferred revenue
-
15
Other
1,505
3,092
$
2,281
$
3,978
NOTE 12:-
SELECTED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS DATA

a.
Allowance for doubtful accounts:

Year ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
Balance at beginning of year
$
2,166
$
2,476
$
3,179
Increase during the year
7,907
1,369
218
Amounts collected
(379
)
(85
)
(130
)
Write-off of bad debts
(38
)
(1,594
)
(791
)
Balance at the end of year
$
9,656
$
2,166
$
2,476

b.
Financial expenses, net:
Year ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
Income:
Interest on cash equivalents, bank deposits and restricted cash
$
1,027
$
549
$
288
Other
81
-
1,390
1,108
549
1,678
Expenses:
Interest with respect to short-term bank credit , loans and other
32
302
240
Interest with respect to long-term loans
1,066
1,237
1,553
Exchange rate differences
452
3,887
2,501
Bank charges
4,323
2,344
1,221
Other
78
22
-
5,951
7,792
5,515
Total financial expenses, net
$
4,843
$
7,243
$
3,837
F - 49
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 13:-
CUSTOMERS, GEOGRAPHIC AND SEGMENT INFORMATION

The Company applies ASC 280, "Segment Reporting" ("ASC 280"). Segments are managed separately and can be described as follows:

The Company's business is managed and reported as three separate reportable segments, comprised of the Company's named Commercial, Mobility and Services division:

·
Commercial division - provides advanced satellite networks, satellite communication systems, small cell solutions and associated professional services and comprehensive turnkey solutions. The Commercial division‘s customers are service providers, satellite operators, mobile network operators, telecommunication companies and large enterprises worldwide. The division is focused on high throughput satellites opportunities worldwide.

·
Mobility division - provides airborne, maritime and ground-mobile satellite systems and solutions.  The division’s customers are, service providers, system integrators, defense and homeland security organizations, as well as other commercial entities worldwide. The division provides solutions on land, sea and air, while placing major focus on the high-growth market of commercial In-Flight Connectivity (“IFC”). In addition, the division includes the operations of Wavestream, whose sales are primarily to IFC integrators as well as defense integrators.

·
Services division – provides managed network and services for rural broadband access through the Company’s subsidiaries in Peru and Colombia. The Company’s connectivity solutions have been implemented in large and national scale projects. The divisions terrestrial and satellite networks provide Internet and telephony services to thousands of rural communities and schools. The Company's turnkey solutions start with supplying network infrastructure, continue through ensuring high-quality, reliable connectivity and include full network support and maintenance, as well as support for applications that run on the installed network.
a.
Information on the reportable segments:

1.
The measurement of the reportable operating segments is based on the same accounting principles applied in these financial statements which includes certain corporate overhead allocations.


F - 50
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 13:-
CUSTOMERS, GEOGRAPHIC AND SEGMENT INFORMATION (Cont.)

2.
Financial data relating to reportable operating segments:

Year ended December 31, 2016
Commercial
Mobility
Services
Total
Revenues
$
94,001
$
62,911
$
122,639
$
279,551
Cost of revenues
57,403
40,962
105,696
204,061
Gross profit
36,598
21,949
16,943
75,490
Research and development, net
12,599
12,254
-
24,853
Selling and marketing
17,153
5,483
775
23,411
General and administrative
10,657
9,138
6,676
26,471
Operating income (loss)
(3,811
)
(4,926
)
9,492
755
Financial expenses, net
(4,843
)
Loss before taxes
(4,088
)
Taxes on income
1,252
Loss
(5,340
)
Depreciation and amortization expenses
$
4,467
$
7,530
$
1,111
$
13,108

Year ended December 31, 2015
Commercial
Mobility
Services
Total
Revenues
$
100,935
$
41,112
$
55,496
$
197,543
Cost of revenues
63,425
30,715
49,178
143,318
Impairment of long - lived assets
-
-
10,137
10,137
Gross profit (loss)
37,510
10,397
(3,819
)
44,088
Research and development, net
14,175
8,237
-
22,412
Selling and marketing
16,839
6,947
1,037
24,823
General and administrative
6,622
6,271
5,751
18,644
Restructuring costs
1,078
421
9
1,508
Goodwill impairment
-
20,402
-
20,402
Operating loss
(1,204
)
(31,881
)
(10,616
)
(43,701
)
Financial expenses, net
(7,243
)
Loss before taxes
(50,944
)
Taxes on income
1,190
Loss from continuing operations
(52,134
)
Loss from discontinued operations
(200
)
Loss
(52,334
)
Depreciation and amortization expenses
$
4,546
$
7,322
$
3,204
$
15,072

F - 51
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 13:-
CUSTOMERS, GEOGRAPHIC AND SEGMENT INFORMATION (Cont.)

Year ended December 31, 2014
Commercial
Mobility
Services
Total
Revenues
$
130,306
$
54,817
$
50,010
$
235,133
Cost of Revenues
77,587
37,023
36,888
151,498
Gross profit
52,719
17,794
13,122
83,635
Research and development, net
17,084
8,074
-
25,158
Selling and marketing
23,401
7,809
1,327
32,537
General and administrative
7,808
5,961
7,134
20,903
Operating income (loss)
4,426
(4,050
)
4,661
5,037
Financial expenses, net
(3,837
)
Income before taxes
1,200
Taxes on income
1,901
Loss from continuing operations
(701
)
Loss from discontinued operations
(795
)
Loss
(1,496
)
Depreciation and amortization expenses
$
4,885
$
8,220
$
2,846
$
15,951

b.
Revenues by geographic areas:

Following is a summary of revenues by geographic areas. Revenues attributed to geographic areas, based on the location of the end customers and in accordance with ASC 280, are as follows:

Year ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
Latin America
$
143,491
$
100,443
$
110,825
APAC
47,094
47,843
51,983
North America
54,728
28,242
41,951
EMEA
34,238
21,015
30,374
$
279,551
$
197,543
$
235,133

c.
Revenues from a major Services division customer located in Peru accounted for 34% and 11% of the total consolidated revenues for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

During 2014, the Group did not have any customer generating revenues exceeding 10% of the Group's total revenues.

F - 52
GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands
NOTE 13:-
CUSTOMERS, GEOGRAPHIC AND SEGMENT INFORMATION (Cont.)

d.
The Group's long-lived assets are located as follows:

Property and Equipment, net:

December 31,
2016
2015
Israel
$
62,648
$
64,628
Latin America
5,740
4,524
United States
1,705
1,721
Europe
9,641
9,987
Other
1,103
1,103
$
80,837
$
81,963
NOTE 14:-
RELATED PARTY BALANCES AND TRANSACTIONS
a.
The Company entered into a number of agreements for the purchase of infrastructure, construction and services from C. Mer Industries Ltd ("C. Mer"), a publicly traded company in Israel (TASE). The Company's controlling shareholder, Fimi Opportunity Funds, holds approximately 30% of C. Mer's share capital.
b.
T ransactions with the related party :
Year ended December 31,
2016
2015
2014
Cost of revenues of products
$
10,978
$
2,915
$
4,876
c.
B alances with the related party :
December 31,
2016
2015
Accrued expenses
$
3,080
$
339
Trade payables
$
5,022
$
1,170
F - 53
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part IItem 1: Identity Of Directors, Senior Management and AdvisorsItem 2: Offer Statistics and Expected TimetableItem 3: Key InformationItem 5: Operating and Financial Review and ProspectsItem 4: Information on The CompanyItem 4A: Unresolved Staff CommentsItem 6: Directors and Senior ManagementItem 7: Major Shareholders and Related Party TransactionsItem 8: Financial InformationItem 9: The Offer and ListingItem 10: Additional InformationItem 11: Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market RiskItem 12: Description Of Securities Other Than Equity SecuritiesPart IIItem 13: Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and DelinquenciesItem 14: Material Modifications To The Rights Of Security Holders and Use Of ProceedsItem 15: Controls and ProceduresItem 16: ReservedItem 16A: Audit Committee Financial ExpertItem 16B: Code Of EthicsItem 16C: Principal Accountant Fees and ServicesItem 16D. Exemptions From The Listing Standards For Audit CommitteesItem 16E: Purchase Of Equity Securities By The Issuer and Affiliated PurchasersItem 16F: Changes in Registrant S Certifying AccountantItem 16G. Corporate GovernanceItem 16H. Mine Safety DisclosurePart IIIItem 17: Financial StatementsItem 18: Financial StatementsItem 19: ExhibitsNote 1:- GeneralNote 1:- General (cont.)Note 2:- Significant Accounting PoliciesNote 2:- Significant Accounting Policies (cont.)Note 3:- InventoriesNote 4:- Property and Equipment, NetNote 4:- Property and Equipment, Net (cont.)Note 5:- Intangible Assets, NetNote 6:- GoodwillNote 7:- Commitments and ContingenciesNote 7:- Commitments and Contingencies (cont.)Note 8:- Derivative InstrumentsNote 8:- Derivative Instruments (cont.)Note 9:- EquityNote 9:- Equity (cont.)Note 10:- Taxes on IncomeNote 10:- Taxes on Income (cont.)Note 11:- Supplementary Consolidated Balance Sheet InformationNote 11:- Supplementary Consolidated Balance Sheet Information (cont.)Note 12:- Selected Consolidated Statements Of Operations DataNote 13:- Customers, Geographic and Segment InformationNote 13:- Customers, Geographic and Segment Information (cont.)Note 14:- Related Party Balances and Transactions