Bangladesh deploys secure satellite video cloud for government

Bangladesh has implemented a secure satellite-based video conferencing system to support government communications and collaboration across its agencies.

Systems & Services Limited (SSL) partnered with TrueConf to deploy a private video conferencing cloud powered by the TrueConf Server platform, operating over geostationary satellite channels through Bangladesh Satellite-1.

Secure network

The system is intended for use in scenarios where reliance on public internet networks is deemed unsuitable, with a focus on organisations managing disaster response, sensitive military or diplomatic discussions, operations on remote offshore territories, or the protection of critical infrastructure such as power grids and nuclear facilities. According to the companies, these mission-critical environments require continuous and secure communications, which dedicated satellite channels are positioned to provide.

Bangladesh Satellite-1, the first geostationary satellite serving the country's defence and strategic communications needs, forms the backbone for this deployment. The government has coordinated efforts to enhance internal collaboration by connecting its agencies to this satellite, seeking an autonomous and high-quality video communication system that operates independently from the public internet.

System selection and deployment

SSL, specialising in network and infrastructure integration, conducted thorough testing of various video conferencing solutions before selecting TrueConf as its technology partner. TrueConf Server, which utilises its own protocol and an on-premises unified communications architecture, demonstrated the necessary resilience and performance required for satellite-based connectivity. This system was consequently chosen as the foundation of the country's governmental video conferencing infrastructure.

The architecture of TrueConf Server relies on scalable video coding (SVC), which enables stable operations on communication channels with limited bandwidth, such as those delivered via satellite. The platform can automatically adapt resolution and video quality in real time, according to the network's bandwidth and the capabilities of each participant's device.

All data and confidential information are managed entirely within Bangladesh, ensuring that the government retains oversight and limiting the potential risk of unauthorised data access or external transfer. The private video conferencing cloud operates autonomously, aligning with requirements for information sovereignty and compliance with national security protocols.

Features and integration

Role-based rights management is an integral part of the system, supporting compliance with stringent information security standards. Government users access the system through dedicated desktop and mobile client applications, which offer an address book with presence features, team messaging, video conferencing, webinars, and collaboration tools. These functions are designed to improve emergency response times and support expedited decision-making processes.

TrueConf's solution can also connect SIP/H.323 devices, PBXs, and existing third-party vendor solutions, ensuring interoperability across the government's communication infrastructure. This integration facilitates seamless connectivity and consistent communications throughout multiple agencies and remote locations.

Ziaul Hasan, Managing Director of Systems & Services, said: 

"Establishing a secure communication network is one of the main strategic objectives of the Government of the country. TrueConf was the only solution that can operate in a closed network and provide high-quality connection and advanced video collaboration capabilities. This transformative initiative signifies the dedication of our companies in embracing technological advancements to deliver secure, real-time connectivity for mission-critical operations."

Resilient communications

The integration project addresses the demands of long-distance communication and information security, aiming to set a new operational standard for government agencies. The implementation of TrueConf Server alongside Bangladesh Satellite-1 enables the holding of ad-hoc virtual meetings, training sessions, briefings, and other collaboration formats required in government operations. The system is designed to support timely information exchange, coordination between remote locations, and the rapid resolution of urgent operational matters.

Government agencies are positioned to utilise the new infrastructure for diverse needs, ranging from emergency coordination and strategic planning to daily interdepartmental communication, within a framework that prioritises autonomy, reliability, and national data protection.