During the Cold War the Soviet Union and United States of America had several satellite countries which they supported financially and militariliy. These were smaller, developing nations which would choose sides in the Cold War. They were often the site of wars and confrontations. The countries on the eastern side of the Iron Curtain were satellites for the Soviets, and those on the western side were satellites for the United States. Other examples are (Communist) North Korea and (Democratic) South Korea; (Communist) North Vietnam and (Democratic) South Vietnam; and (Communist) Cuba.

This is a term used by those in the television industry (especially the cable sector) to refer to rural areas where it is too difficult or expensive to lay wire.

Usage: "Market penetration isn't great out there, but then again, it is satellite country."