Impact of new LEO systems on humanitarian aid operations

In humanitarian work, satellite communications help deliver aid in remote areas, enabling the delivery of critical services such as portable communications kits, drone surveillance, and coordinating food distribution and e-learning programs.

Author: Nabil Ben Soussia, CCO, IEC Telecom Group.

In an era where technology and innovation are playing a leading role in addressing global challenges, the deployment of satellite systems in low Earth orbit (LEO) is a game-changer in humanitarian response. These advanced satellite networks enhance communications capabilities that are crucial for disaster response and aid distribution, especially in remote and conflict-torn regions of Africa.

The United Arab Emirates has long been committed to helping those in need. The country has consistently extended its support to neighboring and developing countries, channeling significant aid funds through various ministries, from providing food aid to refugee camps to financing education and health projects. One recently launched campaign is the Zayed Humanitarian Heritage Initiative, which has committed AED 20 billion ($5.45 billion) to humanitarian work in the world’s most vulnerable communities. The UAE aims to empower communities to drive positive change, creating a lasting legacy of compassion and impactful global reach.

This spirit of global connection and support extends to technological advancements, which are the cornerstone of ensuring every community has access to the Internet. The global digital transformation market is projected to grow from $2.71 trillion in 2024 to $12.35 trillion by 2032, at a CAGR of 20.9% during the forecast period. With 45% of Africa’s population living more than 10 km from any fiber optic network infrastructure, satellite connectivity provides reliable and secure coverage to take advantage of the opportunities presented by digitalization. In fact, according to the African Space Industry Annual Report 2019, satellite communications generate approximately $6.5 billion annually in Africa.

In the humanitarian sector, satellite communications make a significant contribution to delivering relief in areas without reliable cellular service – from portable communications kits for emergency services and drone surveillance to coordinating food distribution and e-learning programs. Digital technologies make aid efforts easier than ever before.

The advent of LEO communications solutions enables better access to emergency services even in the most remote parts of Africa. Deploying new LEO systems in Africa has the potential to revolutionize humanitarian aid efforts by providing advanced connectivity for real-time data collection, remote sensing capabilities, digital healthcare support, improved coordination and improved logistics. Such advances can help address the challenges facing humanitarian operations and ultimately save more lives in times of crisis.

Modern digital applications are constantly evolving to serve humanitarian operations and require low latency – greatly improved by LEO connectivity. LEO networks can offer latencies of 40 milliseconds compared to 180 milliseconds for MEO networks and 600 milliseconds for GEO networks. This is essential for real-time applications and is the cornerstone of digitalization. The LEO network’s high speeds combined with low latency improve email handling, support video conferencing and enable rapid data exchange, paving the way for artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies in remote areas.

Cybersecurity is one of the key requirements for humanitarian communication. The LEO architecture eliminates many high-level interference threats, but some threats require field treatment. Humanitarian organizations must maintain traffic control. Most cyber threats originate from the unintentional misuse of infected devices. Given the complexity of humanitarian operations, the role of network management is growing exponentially.

Currently, LEO technologies allow aid workers to browse a GSM-like satcom network. This is obviously a big achievement. Internet access is an important factor in ensuring healthy working conditions for humanitarian staff engaged in long-term projects. Connectivity in the field is a gateway to socialization, enabling aid workers to stay in touch with loved ones, stay up to date with world news, access e-learning programs and more.

However, for operations centers, increasing in-person connections mean increased vulnerability to cyber threats. Modern network management systems offer a reliable solution. Corporate environments used for mission-critical operations can now be isolated from staff and third-party viewing, eliminating the risk of cross-contamination. ICT terminals are becoming more and more compact every year. In the past, network segregation was only possible as part of the long-term camp infrastructure. Currently, exactly the same functionality is offered by portable devices that can be used in first response operations and vehicle missions.

Moreover, today LEO connectivity enables field missions in Africa to function like remote offices. The impact goes far beyond increased operational efficiency. Humanitarian aid stations can become “connectivity hubs” that extend the benefits of digitalization to remote areas. From mobile clinics, through e-school services and legal consultation centers, to remote expert consulting opportunities made possible by connectivity, the spectrum of available assistance activities can increase exponentially.

By enabling new social services for disadvantaged communities in Africa, non-governmental and intergovernmental organizations are helping remote communities gain access to resources previously reserved for urban citizens, advancing equality and boosting economic development. According to the African Development Bank, every 10% increase in broadband penetration is expected to increase GDP by 2-3%. LEO-powered solutions are well-positioned to bridge this digital divide and unlock opportunities for growth and development in African communities.