Inmarsat said the services will be transmitted via ultra-low-bandwidth satellite, and the collaboration will permit further functionality for Harvest's "data anywhere" technologies, which have been designed to transmit over extremely low bandwidth, such as its Wearwolf headset.

"Harvest's popular Wearwolf wearable headset solution enables remote workers to communicate directly with technicians, engineers and site managers who may be located across different continents simultaneously in real-time, from the comfort of their offices or homes, so removing the need to travel," Inmarsat said.

The headset can offer high-data-rate streaming of video and audio over satellite with a wireless connection to Inmarsat's Explorer 710 BGAN (Broadband Global Area Network) terminal.

The companies point out that mining, energy and utilities are all facing increasing pressure to maintain crucial infrastructure and equipment while also keeping workers safe and keeping their sites cost-effective. There is also growing pressure for remote personnel to be connected with their base in a live manner to take on reviews and needed decision-making.

"The energy, utilities and mining sectors have all harnessed the benefits of global satellite communications to maintain safe and efficient operations for a number of years," Inmarsat sector development director Steven Tompkins said.

"However, these challenges have been exacerbated by global restrictions imposed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, which means that there has never been a greater need for affordable solutions that help organisations collaborate, work together and improve operations, no matter where they are located."

He added that Harvest, by developing a wearable solution to support its High Data Rate (HDR) streaming capabilities across a low-bandwidth connection, has facilitated  efficient, safe, cost-effective and sustainable site surveys of assets no matter their location.

AST managing director Gregory Darling said his company will provide real-time video and audio through its global INTEGRA network.

Harvest MD Paul Guilfoyle noted the alliance will allow for the implementation of existing technology and examining innovation for future communication initiatives.