Intelsat, Cochise County Sheriff’s Office Deploy Satellite Communications at Mexican Border

McLEAN, Va. – Intelsat, operator of one of the world’s largest satellite and terrestrial networks, and the Cochise County, Arizona Sheriff’s Office launched the use of Intelsat’s Multi-Layer Communication System (MLCS) to enable border security forces to safely operate and communicate in extreme, remote environments where radio, cellular and infrastructure services do not exist.

“Our commitment to deploying innovative and reliable satellite communication devices for law enforcement is not just about business, it is about supporting the men and women who keep our communities safe,” said Intelsat President of Government Solutions David Broadbent.
“When officers in the field can seamlessly share real-time information and coordinate responses using MLCS, they can work more effectively and safely.”

Intelsat’s MLCS will combine high-throughput, low-latency low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite service with 5G cellular and a “police radio” gateway to provide voice and broadband connectivity to the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office in previously unconnected areas along the U.S. southern border. By integrating satellite, cellular, and ground-tactical radio systems, the managed service ensures seamless communication with the Sheriff’s 911 dispatch center, even when officers are two miles from a vehicle.

Beyond voice communication, the system supports broadband connectivity critical safety features like GPS-based “officer down” alerts, ensuring life-saving capabilities in the field.

As part of the agreement, 10 systems were installed in police vehicles for mobility, and an additional four will be placed at the 911 dispatch center in Sierra Vista, Arizona. The connectivity provided by Intelsat’s MLCS will enable critical, coordinated communications between Cochise County first responders and other local, state and federal agencies.

About Intelsat

Intelsat’s global team of professionals is focused on providing seamless and secure, satellite-based communications to government, NGO and commercial customers through the company’s next-generation worldwide network and managed services. Bridging the digital divide by operating one of the world’s largest and most advanced satellite fleet and connectivity infrastructures, Intelsat enables people and their tools to speak over oceans, see across continents and listen through the skies to communicate, cooperate and coexist. Since its founding six decades ago, the company has been synonymous with satellite-industry “firsts” in service to its customers and the planet. Leaning on a legacy of innovation and focusing on addressing a new generation of challenges Intelsat team members now have their sights on the “next firsts” in space as they disrupt the field and lead in the digital transformation of the industry.

Media Contact:

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