# Portugal emergency communication resilience program

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/portugal-emergency-communication-resilience-program
> Updated: 2026-09-29T05:00:43.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

In response to communication failures during Storm Kristin in January, the municipalities of Tomar and Mação in Portugal are set to receive Starlink satellite equipment. This initiative, funded through the Portugal Recovery and Resilience Plan (PTRR), aims to ensure connectivity during emergency situations and power outages.

This local effort is part of a broader national strategy known as the ‘Freguesias Ligadas’ program. This 46 million euro government initiative seeks to provide redundant communications to local parish councils across Portugal by equipping them with SIRESP telephones, satellite phones, and Starlink data connections. The program, which aims for full implementation by 2026, is designed to maintain contact between local authorities and Civil Protection during extreme weather or general telecommunications failures.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-29: Satellite connectivity strengthens critical infrastructure and emergency communications

Satellite connectivity, particularly via Low Earth Orbit (LEO) networks like Starlink, is being deployed to secure critical industrial operations and enhance emergency communication resilience in Portugal.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/satellite-connectivity-strengthens-critical-infrastructure-and-emergency-communications

### 2026-08-31: Tomar and Mação to receive Starlink equipment for emergency use

The Portuguese municipalities of Tomar and Mação will receive Starlink satellite equipment to secure emergency communications following recent storm-related failures.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tomar-and-mao-to-receive-starlink-equipment-for-emergency-use

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Cite as: Portugal emergency communication resilience program. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/portugal-emergency-communication-resilience-program