Satellite phones are the latest in emergency technology that can put us through to civilization if all else fails. The phones themselves are not as expensive as the plans, and it can be an expensive alternative to a smartphone, which is also why they should not be replaced. The usefulness of these survival tools cannot be debated, but are they easily accessible to anyone?
Where Can You Buy Satellite Phones?
Satellite phones are available from the big 3 (Iridium, Inmarsat, Globalstar) online or from your local satellite phone provider. A lot of websites specializing in satellite phones and even Amazon can hook you up with one of these lifesaving tools.
Purchasing from Inmarsat
Inmarsat was first established in 1979 with the purpose of providing communication for those at sea. Now, their amazing satellite phones and networks are used by airlines, ship owners, and even by the government. Their phones can be seen in remote regions, used by volunteer workers and humanitarians alike.
Inmarsat is what we would call a global satellite service company, which offers satellite service around the world. Their phones are available directly from the Inmarsat website, or from their worldwide network of authorized distributors, resellers, and service providers.
On their website, Inmarsat conveniently organizes their products into categories which will allow you to easily sort through everything to find what you want. From their Global Xpress broadband service to their voice services. You can rely on their stable and steady network to get the word out.
Purchasing from Iridium
Offering true global service, Iridium utilizes 66 cross-linked Low Earth Orbit satellites that allow coverage of the earth’s entire surface. It doesn’t matter if the service reaches across oceans, land or even 20,000 miles up in the air, you’ll get clear service.
While most of Iridium’s communication centers are across the states, they provide excellent service all around the globe. Their trusted satellite phones are even used by the U.S. Department of Defense [1].
Their phones are accessible via their website under the “satellite phones” tab. If you would prefer entire kits or even satellite phones that come with plans, you can look through their list of distributors or even on Amazon.
Purchasing from GlobalStar
Globalstar satellite phones focus more on asset management and personnel safety, which means they work better regionally. Whether you work in forestry, utilities, maritime, construction, or even if there is an emergency, Globalstar satellite phones will come through for you.
Their phones work in over 120 countries around the world and can be purchased on their website or through authorized sellers. You can even look through their “locate a dealer” function on their website if it’s difficult for Globalstar to send their products to your location.
Purchasing Plans
Most if not all satellite phone companies will provide service plans in complete packages. If you don’t like what you see, there are other satellite service providers around the globe that can perhaps offer better deals that suit your needs.
A few things to keep in mind are that there are some countries with satellite phone restrictions. A few examples of these countries include:
- Myanmar
- China
- Cuba
- Chad
- India
- Libya
- Nigeria
- North Korea
- Russia
- Sudan
A lot of countries with terrorism issues and military unrest are more likely to ban the use of satellite phones altogether. For countries such as India, they permit only satellite phones using the Inmarsat network, and permission must be granted beforehand.
Before you bring your satellite phone into a country, make sure that doing so isn’t illegal. You can inquire at their embassy or your satellite phone provider.
Conclusion
Satellite phones aren’t for people looking to have long-winded chats with a friend across the world. They have a much more meaningful purpose, some of which include the livelihood and well-being of the users. Satellite phones can be an expensive investment, but they could also be the most heavily relied upon the device for your safety.
Whether you’re working in a remote location, doing charity work out in the wilderness, or even during natural disasters when cell service is a luxury that doesn’t exist, the satellite phone could notify your loved ones of your location and that you are okay.
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