Japanese shipping company NYK Line has chosen Marlink to equip its own fleet with a smart hybrid network. Marlink will use its experience operating Starlink and other high-capacity LEO internet systems inside an existing smart hybrid network to boost crew wellness.
Following the successful assessment of Starlink on two vessels in 2022, NYK Line selected Marlink to integrate LEO services as part of its smart hybrid network and to roll out the solution throughout the fleet.
“NYK recognises the importance of enhancing communications and welfare services for both our existing crew and in attracting and retaining the next generation of seafarers to our fleet,” stated Hisaya Higuchi, managing executive officer, of Nippon Yusen Kaisha.
He further added, “Drawing upon Marlink’s industry-leading experience in managing the integration of Starlink services into an existing network, we will be able to enhance the quality of life at sea for our seafarers while continuing to enjoy seamless VSAT services for business needs.”
NYK Line will use the Starlink service in addition to the current high-capacity VSAT offered by Marlink on its fleet of owned vessels, with the extra bandwidth dedicated to crew communications and welfare services. With L-band backup, Marlink VSAT will continue to supply the main business communications channel.
Onboard network management incorporates Marlink’s XChange platform, which ensures guaranteed connectivity levels for running business and crew applications with the highest Quality of Service available.
Furthermore, XChange provides the smooth blending of networks across all orbits and frequencies, allowing users to enjoy the benefits of a single secure hybrid network solution with the best uptime and assured worldwide coverage.
