Revolutionizing Cattle Farming: Two-Way Satellite Connectivity for Improved Livestock Management

Connectivity has long been a barrier to the adoption of digital tools in extensive grazing systems for cattle producers. However, a groundbreaking agtech project has recently showcased the feasibility of reliable and cost-effective two-way satellite connectivity to facilitate livestock management and deploy Internet of Things (IoT) sensors across Australia.

In June 2025, trials in Pinjarra Hills and Rockhampton confirmed the technology’s capability to transmit high success rates for messages utilizing low power and bandwidth while ensuring dependable two-way communication. This advancement promises increased efficiency and reliability for cattle farmers.

Supported by Meat & Livestock Australia, this initiative was spearheaded by eSAT Global, with contributions from Smart Paddock for on-farm visualization and Viasat for satellite connectivity.

Michael Lee

According to Michael Lee, the MLA’s group manager for science and innovation, this project addresses a critical gap in connectivity for the adoption of digital solutions in grazing systems. He stated, “The potential for producers to achieve reliable two-way satellite data at an economical rate enhances their ability to make informed grazing decisions, implement health interventions, and improve traceability.”

Rick Somerton, CEO of eSAT Global, emphasized that their project validated the effectiveness of purpose-built geo-stationary satellite technology tailored for small data packets and ultra-low power use. He added, “Field trials have confirmed the robustness required for smart tags and sensors, targeting cost points for whole-herd connectivity.”

Highlighting the importance of satellite systems, Andy Kessler, Viasat’s vice president, mentioned, “In regions lacking terrestrial networks, dependable satellite coverage is essential. Our partnerships have illustrated how scalable satellite IoT systems can enhance agricultural productivity by enabling effective monitoring of livestock.”

Innovative Communication Modules

The project’s outcomes included a new eSAT communications module designed for compact and low-power smart livestock ear tags, as well as rugged on-farm sensors. These innovations allowed seamless integration between tags, sensors, satellite networks, and cloud dashboards, enabling two-way messaging for device management and real-time updates.

Results from the field trials reflected a message success rate exceeding 99% with automatic re-transmission, while Smart Paddock’s tools monitored cattle movements and behaviors effectively during the test period.

Broad Benefits for the Livestock Sector

This technology is expected to yield numerous advantages, especially in remote livestock operations. Regular collection of comprehensive location data will enhance grazing strategies and pasture management. Moreover, real-time behavioral and activity tracking could facilitate early detection of health issues and improve breeding practices.

Enhanced identification and movement tracking will strengthen biosecurity measures, while remote monitoring capabilities will decrease the need for manual oversight of large properties. The early alerts generated by unexpected movement patterns can also serve as a deterrent to stock theft.

With the core research and development now complete, eSAT is establishing commercial partnerships with manufacturers of tags and sensors, focusing on smart livestock tags as well as essential on-farm devices such as water, weather, gate, and pump sensors. A Producer Program is in progress to scale these deployments and integrate additional data sources for measurable productivity gains in the agricultural industry.

For more information, click here to read the full report.

Source: MLA