Satellite phones and messaging devices are indispensable tools for disaster response teams due to their reliability in situations where traditional communication infrastructure is compromised or non-existent.

Unlike conventional phones, which rely on terrestrial networks that can be damaged or overloaded during emergencies, satellite phones connect directly to orbiting satellites, ensuring uninterrupted communication. Whether deployed in remote areas, amidst natural disasters, or in regions with limited connectivity, satellite phones keep teams operating efficiently and in-sync. Below are five options you should consider for your crew.

Iridium Extreme 

The Extreme from Iridium provides a rugged option as it’s designed to withstand harsh conditions. The compact handset phone comes standard with location awareness and a fully-integrated SOS button with emergency response service. Users can expect up to four hours of talk time and 30 hours of standby on a fully charged battery. The Iridium Extreme supports GPS, online tracking and Google Mapping services. Like cellular devices, it contains memory space to store up to 100 contacts and has SMS and email messaging capabilities. iridium.com

Thuraya X5-Touch 

This option from Thuraya gives those used to Android phones an option of familiarity. The X5-Touch is a satellite and GSM phone that operates on the Android platform. It features a 5.2” full HD touchscreen, resistant to glare and capable of functioning even when wet or with gloves. It comes preloaded with essential Google applications and allows access to a wide range of third-party apps through the Google Play Store. The X5 comes equipped with GPS, BeiDou and Glonass and runs on a battery that provides 100 hours of standby time and up to 11 hours of talk time. Users will also find the phone has a built-in camera with flash and panorama mode. thuraya.com/en

Spot X 

The SPOT X is a two-way satellite communication device that enables two-way messaging and offers a full QWERTY keyboard. The unit comes loaded with 14 predefined messages that can be customized for quick sends. Users can check in with team members, managers or contact 24/7 search and rescue services. Additionally, it can be paired with a smartphone via Bluetooth. Managers have the capability to track the location and movements of remote employees. The SPOT X has a distinct mobile number, allowing messages to be sent directly to the device at any time. findmespot.com

Garmin inReach Mini 2

The inReach Mini 2 is a small, compact messaging device that connects to global satellites using flexible airtime plans through a month-to-month subscription. Aside from two-way messaging, the Garmin unit has interactive SOS alerts, so when activated a Garmin Response team can coordinate emergency action. The Mini 2 measures 4 inches by 2 inches and weighs only 3.5 ounces. Standard with the device is the inReach weather service, providing users with detailed weather reports and forecasts. It uses an internal, rechargeable lithium battery that provides up to 14 days of use at the default 10-minute tracking mode. garmin.com

Zoleo Satellite Communicator 

Zoleo devices are designed to connect to the user's existing smartphone, extending their messaging coverage using global satellites. They use Iridium satellites and connect to phones via bluetooth. Once on and connected, crew members can text from their regular phones to others using Zoleo technology even when cell towers are down. Weighing only 50 grams, the units are small and lightweight. Designed to be dust, water and shock resistant, Zoleo communicators are built for harsh environments. Using a rechargeable lithium ion battery, users can expect over 200 hours of battery life. zoleo.com/en-us 

It's important for disaster response teams to have redundancy in their communication systems to account for potential failures or limitations in any one device or network. Satellite communication options provide a backup plan that can be relied on.