The Role of VSAT in Disaster Recovery

Communication is crucial during an earthquake, and the ability to transmit communication without cables can only be achieved through satellite technologies. The VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) system, which provides continuous broadband satellite internet service, refers to small (80 cm) antenna-based satellite ground stations. VSAT is a system that enables two-way satellite internet communication between geographically distant locations through a “central ground station” (Hub station).
TUYAD’s Role in Disaster Situations
TUYAD provides training for the installation and activation of these systems during AFED (Acil Felaket ve Afet Durumu – Emergency Disaster and Emergency Situation), storing the details of trained individuals in a CRM system, and calling on these individuals for duty when needed.
VSAT systems play a crucial role in communication during disaster recovery and emergency response. Given that it is impossible to predict when and where an earthquake or disaster will occur, most of the time, these events quickly disable infrastructure. Those living in the affected area, as well as those wishing to provide assistance, will turn to mobile devices for communication. However, when infrastructure is damaged, communication becomes impossible.
In these situations, VSAT technology is the key to maintaining communication. Satellites serving the region are critical here. For Turkey, TÜRKSAT and Eutelsat satellites are among the easiest sources of VSAT services.
TÜRKSAT KU and KA band VSAT systems keep a sufficient stock of terminals for emergency communications during disasters. These terminals are deployed by volunteer installation teams, ready to be activated across Turkey.
The Importance of Quick Communication Setup During Emergencies
In a disaster scenario, the ability to establish connections as quickly as possible is truly a matter of life and death. Ensuring that disaster response teams and the general public can quickly establish communication is vital.
VSAT installation training is offered by TUYAD to anyone across Turkey who wishes to participate. Since it is impossible to predict when and where an earthquake will occur, all trained individuals are called to duty during such events. This work is carried out on a voluntary basis, and we extend our gratitude to all the volunteers who have contributed to communication services during emergencies.
The installation of these systems is critical for establishing communication in places where help is needed, both during and before/after the rescue efforts.
The Need for Assistance in the Field During a Disaster
In disaster situations, field teams will constantly need additional personnel. Furthermore, the accessibility of these teams is of great importance. In such cases, priority should be given to VSAT installation teams.
The role of VSAT terminals in emergency communication during disasters became crystal clear during the most recent earthquake. The activation of these systems, through TUYAD’s VSAT group integration, and the rapid deployment of registered personnel in the affected regions enabled communication to be re-established.
Communication Saves Lives
During an earthquake, communication is the most important factor in saving lives. VSAT is the only means of establishing communication in an affected region where the infrastructure has been damaged.
VSAT installation teams may have to travel long distances and face challenging conditions to reach the disaster zone, carrying sensitive equipment. Upon arrival, they work to set up and activate the equipment, often without any prior communication infrastructure in place.
VSAT deployment teams, having received specialized training, require only electrical power (typically supplied by generators) to operate. By racing against time, they install the VSAT antenna, make the necessary precise adjustments, and quickly connect to the internet, making a significant impact on disaster recovery efforts.
The Importance of Training and Certification
During a disaster, all satellite operators reserve their entire capacity for use in the affected regions. Equipment is stocked, but the critical aspect is the installation and activation process, which is only possible with trained human resources. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all VSAT installers for their dedication during disaster situations.
TUYAD’s free volunteer installation training programs and the certification obtained afterward provide participants with valuable knowledge and skills about satellite operations and equipment. This not only makes them experts in satellite communication during emergencies but also prepares them for everyday satellite operations. In disaster recovery, the priority is always to save lives.
Conclusion and Gratitude
VSAT systems are of paramount importance for communication during earthquakes and other disasters. Rescue teams are working with incredible dedication to save people as quickly as possible from the affected areas. As TUYAD, we thank all the volunteers who contributed to emergency efforts and inform you that we will continue our volunteer installation training programs.