Simon Møkster Shipping has invested in faster connectivity for its vessels as part of its digitalisation programme
The Norwegian offshore support vessel owner is installing terminals for communicating with low earth orbit (LEO) satellites to upgrade communications and turn its ships into floating offices.
Marlink is deploying its Sealink NextGen hybrid networks that include Starlink LEO services and very small aperture terminal (VSAT) technology on Simon Møkster’s ships. This will enable the owner to communicate across the fleet and shore offices using standard office software applications including Microsoft Teams as its default collaboration platform and primary voice channel.
Simon Møkster said this will help it optimise operations, improve crew welfare and retention, reduce emissions and improve safety.
“Our company is one for which the values of quality, integrity and hard work are engrained within our staff and our fleet operations, especially when it comes to safe and efficient sailing,” said Simon Møkster Shipping chief information officer and ICT manager Terje Gjerde.
“This next stage of our journey will see us engage with a new era of digital operations, with vessels and shore teams working as one regardless of their physical location.”
LEO satellites will provide high throughput and low latency communications, including free social media to crew on support vessels operating across the North Sea and Barents Sea.
Simon Møkster was among the first operators to deploy the Sealink NextGen hybrid network and has progressively upgraded its fleet to ensure reliable connectivity.
Marlink’s engineering teams were able to blend the new and existing networks on vessels to optimise throughput availability and service quality, and support the ongoing digitalisation of operations across a fleet of 15 vessels.
“Simon Møkster is one of the innovators of the floating-office concept and has consistently challenged Marlink to support its cutting-edge approach to digital operations,” said Marlink president of maritime Tore Morten Olsen.
“This upgrade demonstrates to the wider industry that with a managed network, it is possible to leave behind bespoke software for the shared benefits of standardisation.”
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