The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Technology Council, in cooperation with SkyTerra Communications, has published an extensive information paper on the Satellite Mutual Aid Radio Talkgroup Program (SMART™) and how it enables and improves interoperable communications for public safety operations.


SkyTerra is currently working to develop SMART talkgroups for cross-border interoperability. The paper, A SMART™ Model for Interoperable Communications, provides an in-depth look at the network of nationwide and regional talkgroups that provide effective, interoperable communications for pubic safety and emergency response operations. The program is managed and administered by a variety of federal, state and local public safety organizations. The paper was developed by the IAFC Technology Council.

“Achieving interoperable communications nationwide is an increasingly high priority for policymakers as well as for the public safety and emergency response communities,” noted Chief Charles Werner, chair of the IAFC Technology Council. In the paper, Chief Werner describes how the SMART program tackles the financial and governance challenges that often impede the development of interoperable public safety communications. To use the SMART program, an agency must subscribe to SkyTerra’s service. A SMART™ Model for Interoperable Communications is available for free download on the International Association of Fire Chief’s website — or by heading over to the SkyTerra website. Printed copies of the paper can also be requested at [email protected].