Seafarers on distressed ships can use a new series of communications terminals to alert authorities during an emergency
Emergency communications over Iridium’s global network of low Earth orbit satellites have been enhanced with the introduction of a new series of maritime-approved terminals.
These new devices can be used by seafarers on distressed ships to contact maritime rescue services over the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) to communicate with emergency responders, search and rescue organisations, tugs and maritime rescue co-ordination centres.
South Korean manufacturer Intellian Technologies introduced the GMDSS-compliant equipment for the different bandwidth capabilities of Iridium Certus GMDSS services. Its C200M and C700 GMDSS terminals connect for voice and data connectivity over L-band and Iridium’s LEO network, which provides global coverage to vessels.
C200M GMDSS is now available and has received the Marine Equipment Directive (MED) Wheelmark and UK Marine Equipment Regulations (MER) Red Ensign approval. The package includes the antenna, a below-deck unit and a dedicated safety display terminal which will display maritime-safety information, has a user interface for distress alert and safety communications during distress situations, while the system will deliver an immediate connection to a maritime rescue co-ordination centre.
