Inmarsat announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI), with the aim to leverage the ‘smart ship’ connectivity offered by Fleet Xpress at the vessel construction stage.
Under the strategic agreement, the South Korean yard will install Inmarsat-approved terminal hardware and offer applications to cover remote machinery diagnostics and CCTV services, to boost the satellite communications platform’s capabilities from the moment the ship is delivered.
The ‘Smart Ship’ service aims to allow owners to harvest data from hull-monitors and equipment sensors onboard in real-time, utilising Inmarsat’s bandwidth for Certified Application Providers (CAPs).
Subject to a definitive agreement, SHI will retain remote connections to vessels, while Inmarsat will support SHI’s services through a dedicated Certified Application Provider subscription.
“This agreement demonstrates that the most forward-looking shipbuilders recognise collaboration as the key to shipping’s exploitation of the Internet of Things,” said Ronald Spithout, Inmarsat Maritime President.
As explained, applications covering real-time analysis of data for engine monitoring, weather information and fuel consumption rates can deliver real gains in operational efficiency, safety and compliance, IT security and crew welfare.
