Arklow Shipping is investing in VSAT connectivity for its new generation of bulk carriers to enhance operations and remote support
The Wicklow, Ireland-headquartered fleet owner intends to deploy VSAT with either a 4G network or L-band companion on 17 new vessels. The new bulk carrying coastal and shortsea ships are expected to begin delivery later this year.
Satcom Global’s Aura VSAT Ku-band satellite connectivity, committed information rates, guaranteed service quality and communications companion will be provided to suit the vessels’ different sailing patterns, along with Intellian v85NX antennas.
Arklow Shipping manger for IT Declan Lott explained why the shipping group selected to install VSAT on these newbuildings. “We have firsthand experience of the excellent quality connectivity Aura VSAT delivers, so it was a natural decision to install the service across our growing fleet of vessels,” he said. “As a shipowner and manager, it is imperative to keep operations running smoothly.”
Arklow has 10 new C-class ships under construction for shortsea voyages and seven 6,500-tonne vessels on order. They will have Aura VSAT and Iridium Certus activated on board as a high-speed back-up to the primary VSAT connection.
Iridium Certus will be supported by new Intellian C700 terminals for L-band communications over Iridium’s low Earth orbit Next constellation of satellites.
Arklow currently has 20 ships using Aura VSAT, supporting communications requirements for both business operations and crew connectivity and wellbeing.
Satcom Global has worked with Arklow for more than 15 years. Prior to adopting VSAT technology for these vessels, Satcom Global supplied Arklow with a range of satellite communications solutions, including Inmarsat and Iridium services for voice, data connectivity and GMDSS safety services.
Satcom Global commercial director Graeme Gordon said Arklow was “an early adopter of Aura VSAT. Arklow has chosen to extend the service to their newbuild vessels, ensuring access to the same quality, technology and user experience that other vessels in the Arklow fleet have benefited from,” said Mr Gordon.
Established in 1966, Arklow has grown its fleet from seven ships to 59 vessels in 2021, ranging from 4,200–35,000 tonnes. These are single-deck, box hold and container fitted vessels, suited for the carriage of project cargoes, grain, bulk commodities and general cargo.
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