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Satellite Connectivity In the Depths Of the Sahara
Posted on November 10, 2025 by Guy Arnold
Staying Connected on the Edge, Mac Mackenney’s “Driven to Extremes” Dakar Challenge
Retracing the original Dakar route in MkI and MkII Ford Focus hatchbacks, supported by GTC with Iridium Extreme satellite phones.
Adventure and engineering meet when you take everyday cars into extraordinary places. Explorer and endurance driver Mac Mackenney led teams to follow the original Dakar Rally route in customised first and second generation Ford Focus models, proving that determination, good planning, and smart comms can take you a very long way.
Iridium Extreme, the lifeline when the map turns blank
To keep the convoy connected far beyond mobile coverage, Global Telesat Communications (GTC) supplied two Iridium Extreme satellite phones. With reliable voice and SMS, global reach, and a rugged build for harsh environments, the team maintained logistics coordination, safety check-ins, and contingency planning throughout the journey.
“Having satellite communications with us was vital for team safety. They were perfect for our needs. They can operate anywhere on the planet. They're rugged, and able to cope with the extremes and dust that we encountered.”
— Mac Mackenney
- Truly global satellite coverage via the Iridium network
- Clear two-way voice calls and SMS for team coordination
- Durable build for heat, dust, vibration, and tough handling
- Emergency support features and GPS-enabled functionality
People, cars, and problem-solving across deserts and trails
From the sands of North Africa to the Atlantic coast, the route echoed a legendary endurance challenge. The Driven to Extremes teams navigated remote stretches, improvised fixes, and kept the convoy moving, while Iridium connectivity anchored daily briefings and unexpected detours.
