Satellite communications tech provider Intellian Technologies and Viasat-owned Inmarsat Maritime have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the development of a next-generation global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) terminal.
The new safety terminals will become the standard Inmarsat Maritime product for the next-generation fleet safety service and will be designed for operation over Inmarsat’s ELERA L-band network.
It will fulfil the requirements and performance standards of the International Maritime Organization as part of a range of maritime SOLAS-approved shipborne equipment including GMDSS, long-range identification and tracking system, and ship security alert system.
According to Intellian, the GMDSS terminal will significantly enhance the safety of lives for seafarers at sea around the world and will be “one the most technological advancements in safety services since the introduction of Inmarsat-C in 1991.”
In addition to offering reliable access to fleet safety services, the terminal features a Distress Chat function which automatically alerts the nearest Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in case of an emergency on board, ensuring swift and coordinated response efforts. It also notifies nearby vessels, creating a network of support during critical situations.
“Our next-generation terminal will vastly improve the safety of lives at sea for the 1.9m seafarers and over 20m passengers annually protected by the International Maritime Organization’s policies. For our customers from shipyards to those going through a system upgrade, they’ll be able to have a complete Intellian solution on board,” Eric Sung, CEO of Intellian Technologies, said.
