More than 100 vessels will be equipped with the broadband service
Tokyo-based Nippon Yusen Kaisha, more commonly known as NYK Line, has agreed a deal to install TracPhone V7 mini-VSAT systems from KVH aboard its containerships.
The service, which operates over 60cm antennas, will be provided by KVH’s partner in Japan, SKY Perfect JSAT, under the OceanBB brand name.
This is a second major recent contract win for KVH with a major Japanese carrier, with MOL LNG Transport Co, a subsidiary of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, confirming a deal to implement mini-VSAT on three of its LNG tankers in late 2011, following the completion of a trial.
NYK’s fleet includes containerships, Pure Car Truck Carriers (PCTCs), dry bulk carriers, crude oil tankers and LNG tankers, more than 100 of which will be equipped with the broadband service to support NYK’s IBIS (Innovative Bunker and Idle-time Saving) project with real-time communications between ships and staff on shore.
“NYK is an industry leader that is constantly innovating and improving its shipping and logistics operations with the aim of optimising safety, economy, and protection of the environment,” said Brent Bruun, KVH’s senior vice president of global sales and business development.
“Their industry-leading IBIS project, which helps improve the operation of their ships and reduce CO2 emissions, requires delivering real-time weather and sea current forecasts to the ship and automatically sending ship operation data back to shore for ongoing analysis.”
“The improved connectivity provided by our mini-VSAT Broadband service will allow for greater information sharing and collaboration between NYK employees on vessels and shore, increasing both safety and efficiency. It also provides affordable communications for crew members to communicate with their families or use the internet.”
Source: The Digital Ship
