Asian owner upgrades OSV fleet satellite communications

Broadband satellite communications is driving a leading Asian maritime and offshore logistics group to improve fleet operations. SC Group has started using connectivity from satellite operator Thaicom to boost communications on its fleet of offshore support vessels.

SC Group is also working with Thaicom partner, Ship Expert Technology Co, to develop an integrated fleet management system.

SC Group executive vice president for marine Surachai Nimnual said this connectivity and fleet management services will “help us to remain competitive and improve the efficiency of our offshore support business”. The integrated fleet management solution will also support crew welfare on these vessels.

“Connectivity is the key enabler of smart shipping and the digital transformation in the maritime sector”, said Mr Nimnual. “And will enable crew to use online services or call their families at home by using their own mobile devices at sea.”

SC Group’s fleet of more than 30 offshore support vessels will be equipped with Thaicom’s Nava VSAT service to enhance fleet operations and optimise operational efficiency.

This maritime broadband service platform was launched in February this year with C-band and Ku-band coverage around southern Asia seas and parts of the Indian Ocean. Maritime communication services will be integrated with Thaicom’s Nava Connect fleet management solution.

This is powered by the Thaicom Nava Fibre-to-the-Ship (FTTS) platform that can support high data rates and provide constantly high bandwidth with wide area satellite coverage. Nava FTTS also helps crew keep connected and incorporates an L-band backup service.

SC Group maintains a fleet of over 170 vessels, ranging from cargo ships to tugboats and offshore support vessels.

It operates a transport network integrating freight, cargo ships, piers, warehouses, liquid chemicals and gas, dockyards, and other maritime services related to shipping, such as pilot boats, tugboats, emergency rescue, oil spill clean-up, and offshore support.

SC Group’s offshore vessel fleet includes anchor handlers, towing tugs, emergency response and crewboats operating in the Gulf of Thailand and Myanmar waters.

Thaicom operates up to eight satellites including Thaicom 8, launched in May 2016.