France-based Thales Group has developed a new satellite communications solution named VesseLINK to provide broadband connectivity for commercial maritime vessels.

VesseLINK is designed to provide critical marine operations to ships operating at any sea in the world, and will mark Thales’ entry into the commercial maritime communications market.

The solution will enable connectivity between shores and vessels at sea, as well as offer an affordable, enterprise-grade solution that can meet the challenges of maritime environments.

The lightweight solution also features a simple, adaptable design and easy-to-use interface for ship captains and crews.

VesseLINK can be installed as a stand-alone solution or used as a VSAT companion on all marine platforms such as commercial shipping, workboats, fishing vessels, leisure and luxury boats, and cruise ships.

Thales Group US strategy and marketing VP Adam Marks said: “Thales is pleased to be entering the commercial maritime market for the first time with a stand out satellite communications solution.

“VesseLINK will be the next generation in at-sea, reliable communications.”

The company also noted that its new VesseLINK solution will be operating using Iridium Certus broadband services, which spans over a network of 66 satellites that collectively provide worldwide coverage, including poles and oceans.

The VesseLINK-on-Iridium solution offers a fully integrateable, multi-service platform, and will deliver highly reliable and mobile voice, text and Internet communications.

The solution also features 4G LTE pairing, embedded WiFi access, softphone capabilities and optional handsets, as well as Android and iOS support functionality.