Iridium Communications, a leading provider of global voice and data satellite communications, has announced that Cosco Shipping (CSSC) is installing Iridium Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) terminals on its vessels.
According to Iridium Communications, the installation of the Lars Thrane LT-3100S terminal on the Cosco Tengfei reflects CSSC’s commitment to prioritising the safety of its crew, ships and cargo.
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.
Iridium GMDSS now provides support for Cosco Tengfei’s mission with its global coverage, distress alert, safety voice, maritime safety information and cost-effective implementation and operation.
These capabilities, along with Long-Range Identification Tracking (LRIT) and Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) support built into the LT-3100S, extend to polar waters where CSSC’s incumbent GMDSS coverage fell short.
Xiaofeng Guo, Director of the Telecom and Navigation Department at CSSC, said: “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.”
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Wouter Deknopper, Vice President and General Manager of Maritime at Iridium, further 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.
“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.”
Late last year, Cosco Shipping issued the 100,000th blockchain-based electronic bill of lading to a cross-border e-commerce customer in Shenzhen by COSCO SHIPPING Lines.
More recently, Cosco Shipping Lines has opened its new branch office, SARL, in Casablanca, Morocco.
