How Hughes ESA Helped Restore Communications in Earthquake-Hit Myanmar
Reliable connectivity is often taken for granted, but when a natural disaster strikes, consistent connectivity can mean the difference between effective emergency response and ongoing damage.
A recent 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar left significant portions of the country without reliable infrastructure, communications, and internet connectivity. Teams quickly worked to deliver essential connectivity and communications support to first responders operating in the field following the natural disaster.
Low Earth Orbit Satellite Communications in Emergencies
The Hughes Electronically Steerable Antenna (ESA) utilized the Eutelsat OneWeb low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network to power connectivity for relief workers, restoring connectivity once the terminal was powered on. The ground setup connected the Hughes ESA terminal to the first responders’ existing communication equipment. The Hughes ESA proved to be the ideal solution for the emergency response teams on the ground in Myanmar.
The Hughes ESA offers a compact and lightweight form factor, making it easy to transport—even via light utility helicopters. It features built-in Wi-Fi 6, which enables the rapid creation of a network bubble for instant communications. The system supports impressive throughput, delivering up to 195 Mbps downlink and a 32 Mbps uplink.
The terminal helped reestablish communications for emergency services, specifically a hospital that had experienced significant damage from the earthquake. Reliable connectivity was essential for maintaining constant communication with the central command center to relay information, request resources, and coordinate care in real time.
Ease of Integration Speeds Response
The Hughes self-aligning flat panel ESA includes a built-in modem and provides high-performing, global, and low-latency connectivity. One of the key advantages of the Hughes ESA is its ability to quickly integrate with other systems commonly used in emergency scenarios. The Hughes ESA terminals are small, lightweight, and can be deployed in minutes. There are a variety of fixed and mobile mounting solutions, including waterproof transport cases designed for deployment into rugged environments. The ESA is equipped with standard RJ45 Ethernet interfaces, allowing it to augment existing networks by providing additional capacity. They can also help restore cellular towers impacted by fiber cuts or multi-hop microwave link failures.
This compatibility ensures that emergency responders can use the ESA technology alongside their current tools with minimal friction. And the success of this deployment highlights the advantages of LEO satellite networks. Unlike traditional satellite solutions, LEO offers low latency and consistent high-bandwidth connectivity. This enables seamless video communication with command and control centers. ESAs are also rapidly deployable, significantly accelerating the restoration of connectivity in disaster zones.
Hughes Flat Panel Antenna Powering Connectivity
The Myanmar earthquake response is an example of what’s possible when technology supports on-the-ground action. It also serves as a model for future emergency preparedness efforts.
Hughes and OneWeb’s efforts demonstrate the vital role satellite connectivity can play in disaster relief—bridging the gap when traditional network infrastructure fails and enabling responders to help victims and restore order to an affected area.
Learn more about the Hughes ESA.