Iridium Communications, a major provider of worldwide voice and data satellite communication services, has announced that Cosco Shipping (CSSC), boasting the world’s largest fleet of commercial vessels comprising 1,417 ships, has initiated the installation of Iridium® Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) terminals.
The recent integration of the Lars Thrane LT-3100S terminal on the vehicles carrier Cosco Tengfei exemplifies the commitment of the Chinese shipping giant to prioritize the safety of its crew, vessels and cargo.
With the installation of Iridium GMDSS, Cosco Tengfei is now equipped with enhanced safety measures. Cosco Tengfei, a modern Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC) capable of transporting up to 5,000 vehicles, operates worldwide, facilitating the shipment of vehicles from Chinese manufacturers to destinations across the globe.
“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 its 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,” stated Xiaofeng Guo, director of the Telecom and Navigation Department at CSSC.
The implementation of Iridium GMDSS now offers important support to Cosco Tengfei, providing comprehensive coverage, distress alert capabilities, safety voice communication, maritime safety information, and cost-effective implementation and operation.
Additionally, features such as Long-Range Identification Tracking (LRIT) and Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) integrated into the LT-3100S extend support to polar waters, addressing the limitations of CSSC’s existing GMDSS coverage.
“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,” commented Wouter Deknopper, vice president and general manager of Maritime at Iridium.
