Pedestrian transportable antenna systems can include an antenna mount and an antenna for satellite based or other communication mounted on a top face of the antenna mount. A bottom face of the antenna mount may be attached to a bendable rigid rod that is sufficiently rigid to provide support for the mounted antenna such that a user can walk around with the antenna deployed while the bendable rigid rod of the antenna system is mounted to the user's back (e.g., mounting into a back portion of a vest or flak jacket). The bendable rigid rod is sufficiently rigid to support the antenna without allowing the rod to “flop” over under the load of the antenna. At the same time, the rod is sufficiently bendable so as to permit the system to be drawn closer into a user's body when the antenna is not deployed (e.g., while stepping into a vehicle).