Iridium Communications Inc., a leading provider of global voice and data satellite communications, has begun the installation of its Iridium® Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) terminals within in the world’s largest fleet of commercial vessels.
Cosco Shipping’s (CSSC) 1,417 ships will be outfitted with Iridium Safety Systems, having had Iridium’s Lars Thrane LT-3100S terminal most recently implemented on the Cosco Tengfei.
With Iridium GMDSS’ global coverage, distress alert, safety voice, maritime safety information, and cost-effective implementation and operation, CSSC say that Iridium GMDSS now provides unmatched support for Cosco Tengfei’s mission.
Iridium GMDSS’ capabilities extend to polar waters where CSSC’s previous GMDSS coverage fell short, utilizing Long-Range Identification Tracking (LRIT) and Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) support built into the LT-3100S.
CSSC say that maritime transportation plays a pivotal role in the global economy, and shipping companies require confidence in their distress and safety communications, irrespective of their vessel’s location.
The Cosco Tengfei is a modern Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC) vessel capable of transporting up to 5,000 vehicles. The vessel operates globally, facilitating the transportation of vehicles from Chinese manufacturers to destinations around the world.
Mr. Xiaofeng Guo, Director of Telecom and Navigation Department at CSSC, stated; “I am glad to witness the moment of the first Iridium GMDSS system deployment on a CSSC vessel, the ‘COSCO TENGFEI.’ Iridium GMDSS will greatly enhance her safety service capabilities while sailing on the ocean. It also serves as a good demonstration that the CSSC Fleet can operate in the Arctic Ocean region. We expect to deploy more Iridium GMDSS systems on those Arctic-route vessels during 2024.”
Wouter Deknopper, Vice President and General Manager of Maritime at Iridium, commented; “This is a major validation of the Iridium GMDSS service. Cosco Shipping is the world’s largest shipping fleet, and CSSC understands the value proposition that Iridium GMDSS delivers.” Deknopper continued, “As CSSC’s operations expand into polar and other remote regions, Iridium GMDSS ensures that their vessels have the most modern GMDSS service available.
“Since its launch, we have experienced a massive increase in vessels installing Iridium GMDSS, including merchant ships, military/government, super-yachts, and even small leisure craft. The feedback is universal from the maritime industry, that Iridium GMDSS is the evolution of maritime safety services.”
Cosco Shipping says that the deployment of Iridium GMDSS on the Cosco Tengfei supports CSSC’s commitment to safety and dedication to ensuring the well-being of their crew, vessels, and cargo in an ever-changing and challenging maritime environment.
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