Iridium secures formal approval for global critical communications maritime service
Iridium Communications Inc. IRDM has secured formal approval from the International Mobile Satellite Organization to provide Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) service. The maritime service capabilities will allow the company to extend critical service to the growing fleet of ships in the waters of the Arctic and Antarctica, otherwise known as Sea Area A4. The Letter of Compliance issued by the International Mobile Satellite Organization authorizes Iridium to provide satellite GMDSS service, enabling global network coverage for a critical emergency service for the first time. The recognition, after a thorough evaluation for more than four years, reinforces the commitment and contribution by the company over the years for the safety of mariners and passengers at sea.
In order to make the service more robust, Iridium will integrate the key three GMDSS services, namely distress alert, distress voice and Maritime Safety Information in a truly global compact terminal. This, in turn, will facilitate the company to render both normal and emergency communications, including Ship Security Alert System, Anti-Piracy/Citadel Communications, and Long-Range Identification and Tracking. With a holistic model, the cost-effective service is likely to be affordable to vessels of all sizes, including smaller fishing boats and yachts that do not require to be GMDSS equipped.
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