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Speedcast partners with Lars Thrane to support cruise ships in distress

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The contract scope provisions Speedcast as a strategic partner for Iridium GMDSS, with trained engineers ready for deployment worldwide
Iridium Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) services have been added to Speedcast’s Managed Services portfolio owing to its new partnership with Lars Thrane.

Iridium GMDSS encompasses a set of protocols, equipment, and communications systems designed to ensure that if a ship is in distress, aid can be dispatched from anywhere in the world. The contract scope also provisions Speedcast as a strategic partner for Iridium GMDSS, with trained engineers ready for deployment worldwide.

‘The decision to partner with Speedcast was straightforward, given its global footprint, maritime expertise, professional field engineers and status as a long-term partner with Iridium,’ remarked Thomas Flinth, sales manager, Lars Thrane. ‘We look forward to revolutionising maritime safety by joining forces to deliver the communications tools necessary to keep mariners safe.’ 

Lars Thrane terminals

As part of the agreement, Speedcast will offer the full range of Lars Thrane terminals – models LT-3100, LT-3100S and LT-4100, with LT-3100S the only Iridium GMDSS certified terminal currently available.

Connectivity service for the terminals will be delivered through Iridium’s low-latency global network, providing reliable coverage globally even in adverse weather, including over Arctic and Antarctic waters.

A 'game changer'

Added Jeffrey Irwin, VP, product management, Speedcast, ‘By combining the delivery of Iridium GMDSS services via Lars Thrane’s best-in-class terminals, with corporate and crew connectivity provided by Speedcast’s global mobility network, customers can realize ubiquitous communications to meet all their fleet needs.

‘This is a game changer for maritime industry safety.’