The Thales B-14 system-on-wheels. Photo: Thales Group

[Via Satellite 07-24-2014] Hughes Network Systems and Thales Defense & Security have successfully tested a Long-Term Evolution (LTE) mobile satellite network designed for rapid deployment in emergency situations. The LTE network uses Hughes high throughput Jupiter and Spaceway 3 products, connecting them to the Thales B-14 system-on-wheels. Hughes said the private network solution is deployable in nearly any location.

In crisis or emergency scenarios, first responders can use smartphones and vehicular modems to communicate with Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs) and other responders. The two companies tested the system using the 700 MHz public spectrum in order to meet public safety requirements.

“Cellular and broadband networks see the most congestion right after a catastrophe,” said Lewis Johnston, VP of advanced programs at Thales. “Our deployable 4G/LTE secured communications solution enables the security, availability and resilience of mission-critical applications to solve this problem, which is vital to the public safety mission.”