Inter network roaming between independently managed satellite networks

With the recent wide-spread adoption of internet connectivity to consumers on airplanes, ships, and other mobile platforms offered by various service providers and via multiple satellite systems, there is a need to integrate these independently owned and managed systems with their individual coverage limitations into a combined broad footprint and coverage area with seamless roaming and handovers. This paper describes a method of configuration and service provisioning of satellite terminals on mobile platforms, that allows seamless roaming between networks, that uses advanced security necessary between independently managed satellite networks to effectively allow global coverage for mobility terminals. Partner Roaming Agreements can be created between networks where network operator define Service Plan Equivalence Mapping in visitor network based on terminals' home network service plans. Inter satellite network roaming can also be utilized to load share in case of overlapping coverages. Secure communication mechanisms between the various network management systems are described which are needed between partner networks to provide for encrypted and authenticated communication with the roaming terminals.