Saab, Swedish company, collaborated with ORBCOMM and AAC Clyde Space on a new project, developing space-based communication for the maritime sector via the new automatic tracking standard, VHF Data Exchange System (VDES).
The project aims to test and develop new technology and is expected to begin in October 2020, with the launch of the demonstration satellite in mid-2022, followed by in-orbit demonstration and testing, which will end in the first quarter of 2023.
The system will transmit small data packages between satellites, ships and shore, which will facilitate the maritime transport systems. Furthermore, AIS can be used as before since the system boasts full backward compatibility.
The VDES system will not only provide the opportunity for positioning and communication (as the AIS system does) but also serve as an enabler for e-navigation and autonomous shipping. The technology may even be applicable for other usage as for example IoT communication between owner and cargo, transported both at sea and on land.
Referring to the project, Christian Hedelin, chief strategy officer at Saab commented that
This is a very exciting project where Saab is testing new technology in space, which we think will become the enabler of future secure communication services and applications.
