INMARSAT MARITIME has signed an expanded agreement with Maersk to upgrade the former’s satellite communications services across Maersk’s global fleet of approximately 340 container ships.
The agreement will see bandwidth enhancements rolled out across Maersk’s entire fleet of owned container ships between 2025 and 2026.
The upgrades are part of Maersk’s strategic roadmap to achieve unified connectivity and transform its vessels into fully operational floating offices, as well as providing crews with improved connectivity.
According to Inmarsat, the concept of a ‘floating office’ is aimed at revolutionising vessel operations through an advanced digitalisation strategy, expanded cloud-enabled solutions, and a more cohesive operational infrastructure.
Inmarsat, a part of global communications company Viasat, said the move enables future advancements in automation-focused operations as well as potentially autonomous operations.
Karthikeyan Arumugam, senior product manager at Maersk said, “Connectivity is the key enabler in ensuring our vessels can become floating offices, and with our “One SatCom” project we have the target of having transformed all our vessels into floating offices by 2027”.
“The partnership with Inmarsat Maritime plays an important role in enriching application availability and performance – thereby supporting our digital transformation at sea.
“No less important, it also fosters a better working environment and well-being for our crew members – ensuring that our vessels are not only workplaces but also connected homes away from home.”
Inmarsat says it’s future-proofed connectivity service combines Ka-band and ultra-resilient L-band networks, providing global, always-on, reliable, and secure connectivity for Maersk’s fleet.
Ben Palmer OBE, president at Inmarsat Maritime said, “Our long-term partnership with Maersk is tailored to meet the evolving demands for maritime connectivity”.
“Our connectivity solutions are designed to integrate seamlessly with Maersk’s operational framework, ensuring a robust, secure, and continuous flow of information between ship and shore.
“This expanded agreement is a testament to our commitment to enabling strategic outcomes through superior connectivity solutions.”
By establishing a new benchmark in maritime connectivity, Inmarsat says the two parties are paving the way for a more interconnected and efficient future in global shipping.
