Satellite-based data collection and/or data distribution systems are also integrated in the Global Telecommunication System as an essential element of the global, regional and national levels of the Programme. Data collection systems operated via geostationary or near-polar orbiting meteorological/environmental satellites, including ARGOS, are widely used for the collection of observational data from Data Collection Platforms. Marine data are also collected through the International Maritime Mobile Service and through INMARSAT. International data distribution systems operated either via meteorological satellites such as the Meteorological Data Distribution (MDD) of METEOSAT, or via telecommunication satellites, such as RETIM or FAX-E via EUTELSAT, are efficiently complementing the point-to-point GTS circuits. Several Countries, including Argentina, Canada, China, France, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Thailand and the USA, have implemented satellite-based multi-point telecommunication systems for their national Meteorological Telecommunication Network.
The function of the Meteorological Telecommunication Centres is to accommodate the volume of meteorological information and its transmission within the required time limits for global and interregional exchange of observational data, processed information and any other data required by its Members. Regional Telecommunication Hubs (RTHs) on the Main Telecommunication Network (MTN) perform an interface function between the Regional Meteorological Telecommunication Networks and the MTN.