The Port Authority of the Bay of Algeciras (APBA) is preparing to add a satellite Internet connection that will function as a backup system in exceptional situations that may disrupt conventional communications. The action includes the use of the Starlink network and part of the experience gained from the blackout registered in Spain on April 28, 2025.
The Port of Algeciras currently has Internet connections contracted with two different providers, and each one also has two access routes. This system allows, in case of a specific problem with one of the connections, for the traffic to be switched to another, ensuring that services continue to operate.
However, the APBA considers it necessary to have an alternative that does not depend on the same terrestrial infrastructures. A large-scale incident can simultaneously affect the power supply, telecommunications networks, data centers, and other elements necessary to maintain communications. The blackout in April 2025 is explicitly mentioned in the contract documentation as an example of this type of situation.
The chosen solution consists of adding a satellite connection independent of terrestrial networks. Its function will be to act as an alternative access route to the Internet when the usual connections are unavailable. The transition to this system can be done automatically or manually, depending on the circumstances.
The APBA expects to use a professional Starlink equipment for this purpose. The contracted service will offer speeds of up to 350 Mbps for receiving information and 40 Mbps for sending it, with 500 GB of monthly priority traffic. It will also provide a public IP address, necessary to maintain certain services of the Port Authority through this connection.
The system is primarily designed for emergency situations and not as a substitute for the connections that the port institution usually uses. The aim is to have a third route that operates independently when a large-scale incident simultaneously affects conventional networks.
The contract also includes the possibility of automatically obtaining additional 50 GB packages when the expected monthly capacity is consumed. This way, if the satellite connection needs to remain active longer than expected, the APBA could continue using priority traffic within the contracted limits.
Before putting it into operation, it will be necessary to determine the most suitable location to install the antenna, which requires a sufficiently clear view of the sky. Subsequently, the equipment will be installed and connected to the IT network of the Port Authority. Tests will also be conducted to ensure that the switch from the usual connections to the satellite route works correctly.
The contract includes technical support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If on-site intervention is necessary, it is planned to occur within 48 hours. Moreover, the technical staff of the APBA will receive information about the operation of the system and the procedures to follow when it is necessary to resort to this alternative connection.
The installation and commissioning will have a two-month deadline. Once available, the connection and assistance service will have an initial duration of three years, with the possibility of two additional one-year extensions.
The estimated budget for the first three years amounts to 12,500 euros before taxes and 15,125 euros with VAT. Of this amount, 9,000 euros correspond to data services, 1,500 euros to technical assistance, 1,000 euros to installation, and another 1,000 euros to the necessary equipment. The estimated value of the contract, taking into account possible extensions, is set at 17,500 euros.
The award will be made taking into account exclusively the price of the submitted offers. The documentation considers that the characteristics of the equipment and services are sufficiently defined for cost to be the only criterion used to select the contracting company.
With this new connection, the Port of Algeciras will have the terrestrial networks it currently uses and an additional satellite route for contingency scenarios. The goal is for essential services of the Port Authority to retain Internet access even when a widespread incident affects conventional telecommunications.
