Satellite technology continues to ‘save lives’ in Syria

Inmarsat’s satellite communications network continues to provide vital connectivity and support for Télécoms Sans Frontières (TSF) during the ongoing Syrian conflict.

For nearly four years, Inmarsat-sponsored TSF has been on hand to provide IsatPhone Pro handheld satellite phones to the medical sector treating civilians caught up in the battle. In total 20 phones have been dispatched across the region in areas most affected by the humanitarian crisis.

“The IsatPhone Pros enable medical teams to synchronise logistics in the field and ensure vital medical care is brought to those that need it the most,” said Alexander James Thomas, TSF Head of Communications.

“With improved response times and heightened logistic capabilities, medical corps across Syria continue to use satellite technology to save lives.”

In addition, TSF is providing mobile learning (mLearning) resources for the increasing number of refugee children who no longer have access to a stable education.

In January, the agency opened up its third mLearning centre at a local school in A’zaz utilising new technology to offer educational courses. Inmarsat’s satellite connectivity allows tablets to be loaded with educational applications and constant updates of the latest software material to provide the most creative means of learning for the children.

Situated a few miles away from the Turkish border, A’zaz is one of the main battlegrounds in the Syrian conflict and large areas of the city have been destroyed, leaving thousands of families without homes or amenities.

Inmarsat supports TSF, the only NGO to specialise in emergency telecommunications, with free airtime and financial aid to restore communications after disasters and co-ordinate relief efforts by first responders.

Télécoms Sans Frontières: www.tsfi.org/en