The European project GEXTRECS has demonstrated how secure satellite communications can effectively support emergency operations in complex, cross-border scenarios. RESOLVO was proud to support the project’s communication, contributing to its success.
When terrestrial networks and critical infrastructure fail during major emergencies, ensuring secure communications becomes essential. GEXTRECS – GOVSATCOM Extreme Events Crisis Management Service, funded under Horizon Europe and supervised by the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA), addressed this challenge from February 2024 to January 2026.
Live Demonstration in Realistic Conditions
The project’s highlight was the Live Demonstration Event on 23 October 2025, which involved nearly 200 participants and joint operations between Voerde, Germany, and the Port of Vigo, Spain. The scenario simulated a 7.4-magnitude offshore earthquake with a complete loss of 5G/LTE connectivity for at least 36 hours.
Teams implemented real emergency response procedures: I.S.A.R. Germany led land-based rescue operations, while UTM-CSIC (Spain) coordinated the maritime component, simulating patient evacuation and delivery of essential supplies. The exercise demonstrated the importance of secure, fast, and interoperable communications for effective crisis management.
Technology Innovation for Resilient Communication
The project showcased innovative tools such as the Dynamic Planner, allowing responders to request and rapidly activate satellite services according to operational needs, and the Network Balancer, which ensures communication stability even in changing conditions. Galileo-based solutions were also demonstrated to provide resilient positioning and timing, protecting data from spoofing or jamming.
Impact and Future Outlook
According to Marta Ewa Wachowicz, President of the Polish Space Agency, “Participation in projects like GEXTRECS allows us to build competencies, gain operational experience, and establish lasting relationships with the best partners in the field.”
GEXTRECS concluded in January 2026, confirming that secure satellite communications are a key tool to coordinate emergency response, protect personnel, and ensure reliable information flow when critical infrastructure is disrupted. Project training materials and demonstration videos will also enrich the ENTRUSTED e-learning platform, making knowledge and tools accessible to anyone interested in developing skills in secure satellite communications.
