Satellite Network

A satellite network setup provides internet and voice connectivity in locations without cell towers or fiber lines, using a dish or flat-panel antenna pointed at an orbiting satellite. Systems fall into two main categories: geostationary satellite links, which need a fixed dish aligned to one satellite position, and low-earth-orbit (LEO) systems, which use smaller flat antennas that track multiple satellites moving across the sky. Data speeds vary widely, from 1-5 Mbps on older geostationary VSAT setups up to 100-200 Mbps on modern LEO terminals.

Latency differs significantly between the two types. Geostationary satellites sit roughly 36,000km above the equator, adding 500-700ms of delay to each data exchange due to the distance signals travel. LEO satellites orbit much closer, around 500-600km up, cutting latency down to 20-40ms, closer to standard ground-based internet performance. Terminal size ranges from a compact 40cm flat panel for LEO systems up to a 1.2-2.4 metre dish for larger geostationary installations, depending on required bandwidth.

Power draw for most terminals falls between 50 and 150 watts during operation, with some units running on solar panels and battery packs for locations without grid power. Setup involves aligning the antenna toward open sky, away from tall buildings or trees blocking the signal path, then connecting the terminal to a router for local network distribution.

Remote military outposts, disaster relief camps, and mountain research stations use satellite networks where no other connectivity option exists. Maritime vessels and offshore platforms also rely on satellite links for continuous communication at sea. Field hospitals and NGOs running relief operations after floods or earthquakes use portable terminals to restore communication when local infrastructure fails.

Tactical Supply Pakistan supplies satellite network equipment to military units, disaster relief organizations, and remote facility operators across Pakistan. Terminal type and bandwidth are matched to site location and connectivity needs during consultation.