Cosco Shipping sets new safety standards with deployment of Iridium GMDSS technology

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Iridium Communications Inc. a premier global satellite voice and data communication provider, has recently partnered with Cosco Shipping (CSSC), the operator of the world’s largest commercial fleet, boasting 1,417 vessels. This collaboration has led to the beginning of the deployment of Iridium’s® Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) terminals across CSSC’s fleet. A notable milestone in this project is the installation of the Lars Thrane LT-3100S terminal on the Cosco Tengfei, highlighting CSSC’s commitment to the safety of its crew, vessels, and cargo.

The maritime industry is a cornerstone of the global economy, demanding reliable distress and safety communication solutions that perform across all sea conditions and locations. The Cosco Tengfei, a state-of-the-art Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC), has the capacity to transport up to 5,000 vehicles. It serves a crucial role in global logistics, shipping vehicles from Chinese manufacturers to worldwide markets.

With the integration of Iridium GMDSS, the Cosco Tengfei gains unparalleled support for its global missions. This includes comprehensive coverage, emergency alerts, safety voice communications, maritime safety information, and an efficient implementation and operation model. Furthermore, the LT-3100S terminal comes equipped with advanced features such as Long-Range Identification Tracking (LRIT) and Ship Security Alert System (SSAS), enhancing safety in areas beyond the reach of traditional GMDSS services, including polar regions.

Mr. Xiaofeng Guo, Director of Telecom and Navigation Department at CSSC, expressed optimism about the deployment of Iridium GMDSS on the Cosco Tengfei, “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.”

Wouter Deknopper, Vice President and General Manager of Maritime at Iridium, 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.” Deknopper continued, “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.”

The implementation of Iridium GMDSS technology on the Cosco Tengfei reflects Cosco Shipping’s unwavering commitment to the safety and security of their crew, ships, and cargo. This initiative highlights their dedication to maintaining high safety standards in the dynamic and often challenging conditions of the maritime industry.

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