Satellite communications specialists Inmarsat Plc (LON:ISAT) and Satlink Satellite Communications are teaming up to provide comms services for vessels at sea.
Satlink’s kit is widely used by naval vessels. The deal will see Inmarsat’s Fleet Xpress service integrated in Satlink’s service portfolio.
Inmarsat said the deal would see more than 1,500 additional vessels using the Fleet Xpress service over the next five years.
"We are seeing an unprecedented uptake of the Fleet Xpress service since its launch last year, and by working with Satlink, we are able to extend our global reach and expertise to the market,” said Ronald Spithout, president of Inmarsat Maritime.
“The connected ship is no longer a concept, but now rapidly becoming a reality. With our, world-leading, high-speed broadband connectivity and a dedicated partner network, together we are revolutionising the industry and delivering tangible benefits in terms of vessel performance, driving operational efficiencies and improving the wellbeing of the crew," he added.
Socrates Theodossiou, joint managing director of the Tototheo Group, which owns Satlink, said the group was delighted to deepen its existing relationship with Inmarsat.
“With this strategic alliance we look forward to utilising the innovative and dependable capabilities of Fleet Xpress for the increasing requirements of our customers in regards to broadband connectivity, and to enhance ship efficiency, crew welfare and the implementation of various 'connected ship' applications," Theodossiou said.