First satellite remote control for truck immobilization

In October 2003, engineers at Satellite Security Systems Inc. used the Motorola satellite data network to relay a “stop” message to a receiver located in the dashboard of a gasoline truck 850 km (528 miles) away. Using a small square satellite antenna of around 13 cm² (5 sq in), the truck was bought to a gradual stop over a period of 40 seconds. This technology was developed specifically to be fitted to hazardous trucks and vehicles that could be used in terrorist activities, or to allow police to stop a stolen vehicle. The remote-control functionality allows the operator to slow down the truck and switch off the engine. When this system was first demonstrated, the US government envisaged being able to fit it to all hazardous vehicles.