Aquarius upgrades bulk carrier satcoms, cyber security

Aquarius Bulk Carrier Shipping is investing in fleet satellite communications to modernise onboard IT, and improve cyber security and crew welfare.

The Athens-based shipping company will add very small aperture terminal (VSAT) technology and terminals for connecting with geostationary orbit (GEO) and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites.

VSAT will be installed on 10 handysize bulk carriers Aquarius operates and manages to communicate with GEO satellites using Ku-band of radiocommunication frequencies while flat-panel terminals will connect to SpaceX’s Starlink LEO constellation for high-speed, low-latency connectivity.

Aquarius has selected Navarino to upgrade communications, IT and cyber security on these ships, with Intellian v100NX antennas to be installed for VSAT services.

Having both VSAT and Starlink will ensure vessels maintain reliable connectivity regardless of trade route, weather conditions or fleet communications demand.

“At Aquarius, safety, reliability and operational excellence are at the core of everything we do,” said Aquarius manager for health, safety, quality and environmental and chief security officer, Dimitris Karampinis.

“Navarino’s solutions have significantly strengthened our connectivity, cyber security and IT management capabilities across the fleet, partnering in our continuous efforts to enhance our vessels’ performance and safety.”