Thursday, March 7, 2024
In a collaborative effort, Inmarsat Maritime, a subsidiary of Viasat, and Aramco, a global leader in energy and chemicals, have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to initiate a trial for a 5G “mesh” network. This trial aims to provide robust high-bandwidth connectivity for Aramco’s offshore activities in the Arabian Gulf.
The technology is tailored to deliver high-speed communication capabilities while withstanding the region’s challenging climate conditions, including extreme heat, sandstorms, wind, and water evaporation. This resilience is attributed to 5G’s enhanced reliability in adverse weather scenarios.
Following prosperous outdoor network trials conducted at Rutland Water, UK, in February 2024, the MoU was established.These trials showcased the reliable propagation of millimeter Wave (mmWave) signals over water, demonstrating high throughput capabilities.
Further testing of the 5G mobile Integrated Access and Backhaul (mIAB) network, along with Inmarsat Maritime’s specific developments, will occur in the extreme weather conditions of the Arabian Gulf later this year. This testing aims to demonstrate the world’s first long-range, high-throughput mIAB deployment over the sea, surpassing the previous 1km range limit.
The technology holds the potential to optimize Aramco’s offshore operations through the 5G mesh, facilitating capabilities such as intelligent remote maintenance and operations. This includes IoT sensor-based monitoring, assisted operations using augmented reality headsets, enhanced safety and security features, and opportunities for cost-saving and efficient energy utilization.
Inmarsat Maritime’s advanced ground infrastructure incorporates built-in cybersecurity and data protection measures. Ships operating at greater distances from shore will be able to supplement ground-based 5G with satellite coverage, leveraging Inmarsat Maritime’s bonded network solution, already deployed on over 14,000 vessels worldwide.
Ben Palmer OBE, President, Inmarsat Maritime, said: “Our technologies provide the ingredients for a truly bespoke solution, and our exciting new partnership with Aramco is the latest example of this. This new 5G mesh technology will be a significant step in helping Aramco maximize site efficiency, improve sustainability, provide a better experience for crew and protect the business from cyber-attacks. By combining many proven technologies into one integrated ecosystem, our bonded network is a single solution that can meet all customer demands – no matter how challenging the environment.”
Nabil Al-Nuaim, Sr. VP Digital & Information Technology, Aramco said: “By extending high speed connectivity to our remote and harsh offshore sites through 5G mesh technology, we aim to accelerate our plans to deploy advanced use cases under the corporate digital transformation vision. This is expected to help us further optimize our operations and improve the work environment for our operators. Our collaboration with Viasat to run the first maritime trial in the world for 5G mesh technology is a testament to our commitment to develop and deploy advanced technologies. Working with technology leaders and capitalizing on our operational experience in the field are key components for successful technology developments.”
Saturday, April 27, 2024
