Inmarsat Maritime Partners with Mitsui O.S.K. Lines to Upgrade Fleet Connectivity

Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat company, has recently announced a partnership with Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) to upgrade their fleet’s connectivity from Fleet Xpress (FX) service to NexusWave. This upgrade is aimed at meeting the evolving operational and crew connectivity needs of MOL’s diverse fleet.

The transition to NexusWave will enable MOL to leverage Inmarsat’s fully managed bonded connectivity service, furthering the digitalization strategy of the leading Japanese shipping company. JSAT MOBILE Communications, a local Inmarsat partner, will be responsible for implementing and supporting the upgrades across MOL’s fleet, which includes LNG carriers, oil tankers, and car carriers.

With a focus on addressing the changing operational and crew connectivity requirements, MOL is looking to deploy multi-layered satellite communications services that can support the transformation of its vessels into efficient and connected floating offices and homes.

By consolidating multiple network underlays into a single bonded connection, Inmarsat NexusWave offers global coverage to facilitate MOL’s digitalization objectives. The service includes enterprise-grade cyber-security measures and round-the-clock technical support to ensure seamless operations.

Quotes from Key Stakeholders

Junichi Yoshiyama, Chief Digital & Information Officer at MOL, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Our digitalized and connected ships are becoming floating operations centers and homes for our crew, and Inmarsat’s NexusWave will help keep them connected to high-speed internet and support our onboard digitalization strategy.”

Ben Palmer, President of Inmarsat Maritime, also commented on the collaboration, saying, “We are proud to continue our partnership with MOL and to deliver NexusWave as an accelerator of maritime digitalization. Forward-thinking operators like MOL are drawn to the solution for its performance, robust capabilities, and the confidence that comes from working with a reliable maritime connectivity partner.”

Conclusion

The agreement between Inmarsat Maritime and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines marks a significant step towards enhancing connectivity and digitalization within the maritime industry. By upgrading to NexusWave, MOL aims to optimize its operations and provide enhanced connectivity for its crew, paving the way for a more efficient and connected fleet.