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South Korean shipping gets Inmarsat connectivity boost
A major satellite operator is partnering with a South Korean telecommunications services provider to deploy hybrid communications across various types of merchant ships and owners
Owners and operators in South Korea of merchant ships will be able to implement upgrades to satellite communications with a cyber-secure, hybrid network to access more operational and welfare applications.
These services will become available through a new partnership between a major satellite constellation operator and South Korean telecommunications services provider SK telink.
Viasat subsidiary, Inmarsat Maritime, will work with SK to deliver NexusWave, its hybrid connectivity system involving geostationary (GEO) and low Earth orbiting (LEO) satellites and long-term evolution (LTE) networks.
Both companies will offer these services to shipowners seeking to enhance operational efficiency, resilience and crew welfare.
Their agreement covers NexusWave implementation across car carriers, container ships, VLCCs, and other vessel types operated by the South Korean shipping companies, such as Hyundai Merchant Marine and Sinokor.
Inmarsat said the partners would help operators accelerate digital transformation while navigating an increasingly complex operating environment.
This agreement comes as vessel operations are becoming increasingly data-driven and operators are investing in cloud-based applications, remote technical support, vessel performance optimisation and increasingly connected crews.
“Operators are embracing technologies that enhance performance, resilience and competitiveness,” said Inmarsat Maritime director for the Asia-Pacific region, Justin Yi.
“There is growing momentum behind the digitalisation of maritime operations with South Korean shipowners realising the full benefits of a connected and increasingly data-driven future.”
Inmarsat Maritime vice president for global merchant shipping sales, Laurie Eve, said the partnership gets a "first hand perspective" on the priorities shaping the industry.
"It is encouraging to see the interest in NexusWave as operators look to provide seamless connectivity that supports both operational performance and crew welfare," said Mr Eve.
NexusWave combines Inmarsat and Viasat’s GEO constellations, including the imminent ViaSat-3 service, with Eutelsat’s OneWeb LEO network and LTE mobile 4G/5G connectivity where available.
“Connectivity has become fundamental to the safe, efficient and competitive operation of a modern fleet,” said SK telink head of satellite business, Shin-Yong Lee.
“Shipping companies need a resilient digital platform that can support operational applications, cybersecurity requirements and the expectations of today’s seafarers,” he said. “NexusWave is designed to support these needs, and we are excited to bring its advanced capabilities to more South Korean operators helping them unlock greater value from connected, data-driven operations.”
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