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United Nations World Food Programme Stands With Japan

Re-establishing communications is a critical tool for timely support to Japan as the country faces multi-fron disaster as highlighted by the UN International Telecommunication Union (ITU) today.

From blankets to emergency communications equipment to technological expertise, United Nations agencies are rushing assistance to Japan as well.

Among material already deployed are 78 Thuraya satellite phones equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to facilitate search and rescue efforts, along with 13 Iridium satellite phones and 37 Inmarsat Broadband Global Area Network terminals. An additional 30 Inmarsat terminals are ready for dispatch. The equipment can be charged by car batteries and are supplied with solar panels to enable operations during power outages.

"Today WFP stands with Japan, one of the most generous humanitarian nations on earth that has always been there when others have needed help."- WFP Executive Director Josette Sheeran

As the lead logistics agency for the UN in emergency operations across the globe, WFP has built up decades of experience in delivering food and other relief items in challenging environments.

Source: United Nations