100 NYK Ships To Get Broadband Internet

Following extensive onboard tests of various maritime communications systems, Tokyo-based Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK Line) has signed a contract to install mini-VSAT communication system on 100 ships. The systems will use KVH’s TracPhone system. NYK’s fleet includes containerships, Pure Car Truck Carriers (PCTCs), dry bulk carriers, crude oil tankers, and LNG tankers. The broadband internet service will support NYK’s IBIS (Innovative Bunker and Idle-time Saving) project and offer real-time communications between ships and staff on shore.

“NYK is an industry leader that is constantly innovating and improving its shipping and logistics operations with the aim of optimizing safety, economy, and protection of the environment,” says Brent C. Bruun, KVH’s senior vice president of global sales and business development. “Their industry-leading IBIS project, which helps improve the operation of their ships and reduce CO2 emissions, requires delivering real-time weather and sea current forecasts to the ship and automatically sending ship operation data back to shore for ongoing analysis… It also provides affordable communications for crew members to communicate with their families or use the Internet.”

With more than 2,000 onboard terminals sold, mini-VSAT Broadband is the world’s fastest growing VSAT solution. The network uses ArcLight spread spectrum technology developed by ViaSat. ArcLight is unique due to its efficient reuse of satellite channels, fast speed, low latency, and its ability to support very small antennas that provide reliable service, even in poor weather conditions.

The mini-VSAT Broadband service equips vessels with downloads as fast as 4 Mbps and uploads as fast as 1 Mbps, as well as Voice over IP (VoIP) telephone lines with optimized service and prioritization of applications.

“The market for mini-VSAT Broadband is expanding rapidly in the Asia-Pacific region as leading companies like NYK realize the benefits of onboard broadband. We expect that many major commercial fleets will follow this example” added Mr. Bruun.

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