Abstract
The flexibility of mobile wireless ad hoc networks (MANET) and global coverage of satellite communications presented an ideal combination to provide emergency and disaster relief services. This paper presented the concept of a hybrid MANET-satellite network developed in the on optimising hybrid ad hoc and satellite networks (MONET) project funded within the EU 7th Framework Programme (FP7). It was considered to be a natural step of providing local and remote connectivity in a highly mobile, dynamic and often remote environment for emergency and disaster relief services, such as forest fire fight, mountain rescue and coast rescue. These composite networks raise significant challenges including: optimising network resources and link availability; providing quality of service (QoS) and quality of experience (QoE); minimising costs and maximising energy efficiency, taking into account its impact on both the MANET and satellite segments.