EMC completes MTN acquisition

Emerging Markets Communications (EMC) has completed its acquisition of Maritime Telecommunications Network (MTN) to add services in the growing passenger shipping sector to its existing portfolio. It also allows EMC to build an industry-leading mobility platform that includes a hybrid satellite and terrestrial broadband network. This enables seafarers and passengers to access live worldwide TV, on-demand video content, internet, voice, and mobile phone 3G services while at sea.

EMC has moved its headquarters into MTN’s offices in Miramar, Florida, USA, and also has offices in Europe, Brazil, Africa and Asia. EMC uses its own satellite and terrestrial broadband network with fully meshed multiprotocol label switching, and interconnected teleports. The combined company provides communications to 1,600 vessels. EMC chief executive Abel Avellan said the acquisition has brought cruise ship, ferry and superyacht markets to its commercial shipping and offshore oil and gas business. “We will be merging our government, oil and gas, and commercial shipping business units to continue to deliver our recognised reliable service and support,” he said.

Prior to the acquisition, MTN had developed the hybrid system that integrates a terrestrial broadband network using wireless communications from land-based antennas, with satellite-based connectivity. This has been introduced for cruise ships in North America and ferries in the English Channel. MTN was also transferring this technology into the offshore industry to provide broadband for vessels, rigs and platforms. MTN had a leading position in the cruise and ferry communications market, including C-band and Ku-band VSAT.