Motorola Satellite Phones using GSM SIM Cards

Hi all,

I have been following some posts on this forum relating to the successful use of Motorola Satellite Phones with International Roaming enabled GSM SIM Cards installed rather than registering them on a Satellite Phone Plan.

While I understand that there have been some reports of the 9500 and 9505 phones working via an International Roaming enabled GSM SIM Card, I wonder whether this has been tested and proven in a known spot where no mobile phone coverage exists. My understanding is that people have placed their SIM cards in the phone and tested via making and receiving phone calls while still in the area of the mobile phone network.

Do the Motorola Satellite Phones have the ability to work as a mobile phone in an area covered by the mobile phone network or can they only make and receive calls via the satellite network?

I am looking at purchasing a Motorola 9505a Satellite phone and would love to just be able to place my mobile phone SIM card in the phone and make any satellite phone calls (from remote parts of Australia not covered by the mobile phone network) and expect to pay a higher costed phone call and have it billed to my mobile phone bill.

Due to my lack of knowledge on the subject, I would love to hear from anyone that has information to share on this topic.

Thanks in anticipation,
Gavin