Why AT&T’s FirstNet is planning to add satellite connectivity

AT&T’s FirstNet emergency network is testing satellite links so first responders can stay connected when cell towers are down or out of range. Working with AST SpaceMobile, FirstNet is running trials of a direct-to-cell satellite service intended to plug coverage gaps in remote areas and during disasters.

AT&T describes this as a multi-layered approach: satellite would sit on top of its existing terrestrial network, switching on where ground coverage fails. Scott Agnew of FirstNet says the goal is to ensure coverage for any potential emergency, so police, fire and medical teams can rely on the network even when conventional infrastructure is damaged or unreachable.