Marlink clocks up over 3,000 hybrid networks

Digitalisation and communications company, Marlink, has now supplied more than 3,200 low-earth-orbit (LEO) terminals, either integrated into hybrid networks or as standalone units. The take-up has accelerated as shipping companies turn to high-throughput, low latency services for crew and welfare services, business operations, or a combination of both.

The company has built an expanding portfolio of companies wishing to upgrade their shipboard networks to include LEO systems from providers including Starlink or Eutelsat OneWeb. These run alongside VSAT, 4G/5G and terrestrial fibre services as clients deploy standard software applications and connect remote and floating assets to the cloud.

Over the past year, Marlink has added several leading Greek shipowners including Thenamaris, Polembros Shipping and Sun Enterprises. The companies have upgraded their networks to Marlink’s Sealink NextGen system to support digital development.

This enables them to use digital technologies that have not been available until recently. They include collaborative workflow tools, remote class surveys, voyage optimisation tools, online training, and remote maintenance.

Security and functionality are top priorities. Ship operators are aware the more digital activity means more cyber risk and requires more protection. Data from the Marlink Security Operations Centre show that major incidents are increasing quarter on quarter, the company said. In an average three-month period, the system registers around 70.000 alerts, half of which constitute high severity incidents.

Tore Morten Olsen, Marlink’s president, Maritime, said: “LEO is undoubtedly the service that the shipping industry has been waiting for; it creates possibilities and increases the opportunity for both crew and business solutions. We think that growth will continue but the evidence is that vessel operators will continue to maintain a blended network, with cyber security at the core as the digital journey continues.”