Ship Security Alert Systems (SSAS)
 

There have been reports that recent legislation from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) on ship security alert systems (SSAS) is not clearly understood by some sectors of the maritime market.

The following information provides SSAS-specific detail from Inmarsat's perspective and seeks to address the current misunderstanding.

Use of GMDSS and stand-alone CN137-compliant SSAS equipment One of the SSAS options agreed by IMO is the use of GMDSS equipment. In order to address this, Inmarsat has specified certain modifications to the Inmarsat C system, by amending the System Definition Manual (SDM) through Change Notice CN137. These changes apply equally to GMDSS-capable versions of mini-C and to stand-alone CN137-compliant equipment for SSAS. Inmarsat C has been a cornerstone of the GMDSS for more than a decade. The first of these modifications is scheduled for early December 2003. The Inmarsat C infrastructure will be fully operational to support Inmarsat C or mini-C covert alerting by the end of December 2003.

The new CN137 modifications are mandatory for all Inmarsat C land earth stations (LESs) and optional for Inmarsat C and mini-C mobile earth stations (MESs). The reason why the MES modifications are optional is two-fold:
   1. Some manufacturers may decide not to develop or offer an upgrade to existing models of their Inmarsat C; and
   2. Some manufacturers no longer support hardware or software upgrades for older models of Inmarsat C MESs.

If in doubt, please contact the manufacturer or manufacturer's agent for the model of Inmarsat C fitted to your vessel. The SSAS modifications for GMDSS versions of Inmarsat C and mini-C MESs include provision of two covert buttons, the necessary interconnecting wiring, an interface and a software upgrade. Some manufacturers will also offer a stand-alone SSAS that complies with Inmarsat Change Notice CN137 and uses distress priority P3 alerting.
Covert alerts from the above equipment are sent at Inmarsat Priority Three (P3), which is the same priority as distress. Piracy/Armed Attack alerts are already in use, at priority P3 for GMDSS. The CN137 modifications make the activation covert under such circumstances. All P3 alerts use the Inmarsat C or mini-C MES signaling channel.
Inmarsat priority P3 alerts are free of charge, as already agreed by IMO Assembly Resolution A.707(17). GMDSS distress alerts are delivered to associated RCCs. Delivery of P3 covert alerts, unless specified otherwise by the competent authority, will also be to the RCC associated with the LES that receives the alert. However, with covert alerts, there is a single, second addressee option. This would be the competent authority designated by the Administration within the host LES country, should the Administration within that country request that covert alerts not be sent to the associated RCC.
It is not possible for covert alerts, sent at priority P3 on GMDSS-capable equipment, to be addressed to any destination other than an RCC or competent authority designated by the Administration. Any and all charges that may accrue for the subsequent on-forwarding of covert alerts to any destination other than the associated RCC or competent authority are not covered by IMO Assembly Resolution A.707(17) and would be a matter for agreement with and between Administrations.

Use of non-GMDSS Equipment
As an alternative to using the GMDSS functionality of Inmarsat C and mini-C, it is also possible to use their messaging capability to provide SSAS capabilities. Such use of Inmarsat C and mini-C for SSAS would be by software applications and would use the messaging channel. This method does not allow for any prioritization of the covert alert, does not use the GMDSS infrastructure and is not free of charge. It does, however, allow for greater flexibility in addressing, including multiple addressing, of alerts.
Software applications make possible also the use of Inmarsat D+ for SSAS, in similar ways to non-priority use of Inmarsat C and mini-C, including the addressing flexibility. Covert alerting by Inmarsat D+ also does not use the GMDSS infrastructure and normal message charges would similarly apply. Inmarsat C, mini-C and D+ can all offer more than SSAS; vessel tracking, for example.

ISPS and SSAS Deadlines
Some countries are already stating that International Ship Security Plans (ISSPs) must be in place as early as January 2004. In order to obtain an ISSP, ships will have to have a SSAS either in place or at least be able to show proof that one has been ordered for fitting by the IMO deadline. For most vessels, the latest possible implementation date for SSAS is by the first Safety Radio Survey after 1 July 2004. Some countries, most notably the USA, have stated that ships will not be permitted to enter their waters unless they are in full compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code by the 1 July 2004 deadline. Inmarsat is not an authority on the ISPS Code and details about ISPS implementation should therefore be obtained from National Administrations.

Regional BGAN external Antenna
 

We are pleased to inform you that Inmarsat has released a new version of the Regional BGAN external Antenna

The new antenna is manufactured by European Antenna and has the following significant improvements:

Questions & Answers Inmarsat Fleet 77
 

Inmarsat Fleet F77 is a single integrated global voice, fax and data service delivering genuine communication networking choices, including mobile ISDN and Mobile Packet Data service (MPDS).

What benefits does Fleet F77 provide?
Fleet F77 enables deep-sea ships and other craft to take advantage of continuous, high-quality communications, transforming them into an "office at sea".

What applications does Fleet F77 enable?
Fleet F77 is a tool to aid ship management and technical support. Useful Internet applications include; e-mail, web browsing, intranet access, electronic charts, weather routing, digital image transfer, e-commerce, systems diagnostics, unified messaging systems and security monitoring.

Does Fleet F77 enhance safety?
Inmarsat Fleet F77 is approved for use with the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). It provides built-in pre-emption and voice prioritization, to ensure non-essential and low priority regular communications are interrupted, so that essential safety calls can get through.

What is ISDN suitable for?
Fleet F77's mobile ISDN capability delivers a constant data stream at speeds of up to 64kbit/s and is best used for sending or receiving larger files and images, voice, fax and videoconferencing.

When is MPDS use appropriate?
The cost-effective MPDS option is best where network transmissions need to be more frequent, are less urgent or involve smaller amounts of data. MPDS lets users stay online with charges made for the amount of data sent and received, not the time connected. Ideal for e-mail and web browsing, online chat, small file transfer and standard networking activity.

How do you choose between ISDN and MPDS?
Software tools are available to determine which service to use.

Is Fleet F77 compatible with standard software?
A wide range of freeware and commercial software packages can be used with Fleet F77, as the service is completely compatible with Internet Protocol (IP) and ISDN. The service is designed to be compatible with the Windows platform, with applications running over standard IP connections.

New Regional BGAN software available
 

The latest upgrade to Inmarsat's Regional BGAN software is now available.

Version 8.4.1.0 of the software, which was released on 9 June, significantly improves the performance of Regional BGAN terminals, particularly with respect to Virtual Private Network (VPN) support.

It has been developed to support the most popular versions of Cisco, Nortel, Netscreen and Checkpoint VPN, significantly improving the corporate appeal of Regional BGAN as a secure communications solution.

This new upgrade introduces support for H.323 based applications such as NetMeeting and IP telephony products and streaming audio/video sessions. The upgrade also delivers control pad interface compatibility with Java 1.1.4 and higher.

Regional BGAN customers can easily upgrade to the new version of the software using the 'Upgrade' function on the control pad.

Cyprus Rally 2003

Saturday June 21 Nera and MVS Group, together with re-sellers and end users, had a one-day event at the Cyprus Rally 2003.

MVS had a stand at the headquarters where they showed Nera equipment. The whole group where taken up to stage 10 with a helicopter, to watch the race. After lunch the group was together with Inmarsat at the Service Park. MVS Group Cyprus announced here, with Peter Liberi and Aase-Karin Ronningen, that Nera and MVS group had signed a Distribution Agreement and Regional Service Centre Agreement for Cyprus.

Nera F33 - latest news
 

Services available on NERA F33 with SW version 1.1

Thrane & Thrane increases Fleet F55 choice
 

The new Capsat Fleet55 is a tailor-made for smaller- and medium-sized vessel

Danish terminal manufacturer Thrane & Thrane has launched the Capsat Fleet55. It provides small-and medium-sized vessels with global voice coverage and spotbeam high-speed data communications based on Inmarsat Fleet's 64kbit/s Mobile ISDN and Mobile Packet Data service (MPDS).

The smaller antenna size and the lighter weight of the equipment, and the cost advantage, will make the Capsat Fleet55 attractive for smaller vessels within the categories of private yachts, coastguard vessels and fishing boats.

OCEANVOICE , June 2003
 

Secure Instant Business Network for Inmarsat user
 

Users of Inmarsat Regional BGAN, Fleet F55 and F33 systems now have access to a secure, 128-bit-encrypted instant messaging solution in the shape of the Instant Business Network (IBN).

The IBN is a secure communication and collaboration software platform that can be used to deploy an “always-on” intranet or extranet to a shipping company’s vessels in less than a day, without going through a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

The IBN can then be used as a central repository for any files the controller wants to make available, from text documents to graphics, photos and movies.

Different groups can be defined with different access right to the available documents, using an administration tool that allows specific portals (Micro Applications) to be created within the IBN.

In addition, when users access the system they can see who else is online, allowing instant messaging and text conferencing functionality between all logged-on users.

Typical applications include the ability to communicate up-to-date meteorological reports, maritime chart and navigational updates, logistics, secure instant messaging, e-commerce and online procurement applications, berthing information, booking for ports, online safety information, and sharing of regulatory documents and weather charts.

The IBN also features fully integrated closed-loop alerting and notification architecture that signals users to be aware of content, publishing, and notification events, enabling seamless group event notifications, team-based content alerts and broadcast alerts.

Successful commercial launch for Fleet F55 and F33
 

The latest additions to the Fleet family of services – F55 and F33 – were launched with a flourish at a major press event in London at the end of April.

More than 20 journalists from international publications in the leisure and yachting, fishing, coastal and government, offshore and merchant sectors attended.

Glenn Bourke, chief executive of the Volvo Ocean Race, presented the keynote speech, and provided an overview of the race and its use of Inmarsat technology.

Following Glenn would have been tough for any speaker, but it was the least of Douglas Watson’s concerns.

The Inmarsat maritime business development manager spoke to the audience via a live link using an EMS Fleet F55 from the Team News Corp yacht in the storm-lashed Baltic Sea.

Conditions were more relaxed on the M.V. Lysfoss, a container vessel loading cargo in Oslo Harbour, which was connected live to the press event using video over a Nera Fleet F33.

Despite the enhanced 9.6kbit/s data rate, the clear moving image of a crew member walking above deck showed how much can be done with even the smallest member of the Fleet family.

The event was a resounding success and, as a result, Inmarsat now looks forward to positive media coverage to boost the launch of both Fleet F55 and F33.
 

Fleet F77 loud and clear in Antarctica
 

Fleet F77 is already established as a robust and flexible communications system, but Inmarsat was delighted to hear recently from an international team of scientists who are successfully using F77 in the Antarctic.

The scientists are investigating the composition of the land and ice at Vostok, on the Antarctic Archipelago (79 degrees South, 106 degrees East), where temperatures average -49 degrees Celsius.

They use Inmarsat B and Fleet F77 to communicate their findings back to their control centre, using Mobile ISDN and the Mobile Packet Data Service (MPDS). As they are away from home for around 12 to 14 months at a time, the Inmarsat kit also helps them to keep in touch with their families.

5th Ocean Region Established
 

A FIFTH ocean region has been created to support the increased demand for videophone and store and forward video resulting from the media’s coverage of the war in Iraq.

Inmarsat has re-tasked its Inmarsat I-3F5 back-up spacecraft at 25 degrees East to provide additional capacity for Global Area Network (GAN) Mobile ISDN services in the Middle East. The fifth ocean region is called Indian Ocean Region West (IND-W).

Phase one of the project went live on 17 March, providing additional GAN Mobile ISDN capacity. Phase two, which will follow shortly, will provide additional bandwidth for GAN voice.

The redeployment of the spare Inmarsat I-3 satellite does not mean that existing Inmarsat services are without back-up. If there is a Network Co-ordination Station (NCS) failure in another ocean region, the NCS that is 'on loan' to IND-W can be returned to active duty in the original ocean region in under one hour.

The fifth Ocean Region will be kept for as long as the additional capacity is needed.

Fleet F55 and F33 on schedule for exciting global launch
 

Mobile terminals for the new Fleet F55 and F33 systems are being tested to the limit prior to the imminent commercial launch of the new services - undergoing rigorous below and above-decks environmental checks in order to win type approval.

Inmarsat Partners have also been involved in extensive type approval for land earth stations (LES).

But whereas the F77 tests had a strong focus on larger vessels, with F55 and F33 Inmarsat is providing for a more diverse range of niche markets, such as fishing, coastal and patrol, which have never before had comparable access to a small lightweight Inmarsat terminal delivering voice and data with comparable performance and coverage.

Q1 Highlights
 

Key statistics for the service, as at the end of March 2003:

Inmarsat announces a new Regional BGAN
 

LEBANESE company Tri-band Middle East has signed to become an authorized distribution partner (DP) for Inmarsat’s Regional BGAN service.

The addition of Regional BGAN to Tri-band’s services portfolio complements its existing voice and low-speed data solutions and opens up business opportunities in new vertical markets.

Along with targeting its existing customers, Tri-band believes that Regional BGAN is a perfect solution for vertical industries whose business expansion into the rural areas of the region demands communication capabilities.

 

External antenna arrives for Regional BGAN
 

An external antenna pack is now available for Regional BGAN.

Already proving popular, the antenna is aimed at Regional BGAN users who typically find themselves in a semi-permanent location, perhaps setting up an office away from established and reliable links to the Internet.

Once the external antenna is installed – a simple and straightforward process – users no longer need to re-point the antenna each time they go online.

The external antenna pack is supplied with either a wall- or floor-mounted fixing bracket, 10 meters of cable, and an external GPS antenna that maintains the permanent location fix.

The Regional BGAN external antenna is available for order now.

Inmarsat hosts CITIS 2003
 

The seventh International Conference for Communications & IT in Shipping (CITIS) takes place from 24-28 March at Inmarsat HQ in London.

This is the leading networking event for maritime communications in ship operation, and includes workshops, product demonstrations, and an exhibition of products and services.

Inmarsat will be holding a Fleet applications showcase seminar on Monday afternoon (16:00hrs to 17:40 hrs). External shipping organizations will talk about their use of Fleet and how it benefits them.

Over 300 industry executives from more than 30 countries participated in this event last year.

To book a place at this year’s event, visit the website at www.citisweek.com, or call Laura Lawrence on +44 (0)1932 893 852.

Inmarsat mini-C approved for distress and safety use
 

The International Maritime Organization has approved the suitability of Inmarsat mini-C for use in the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), a decision that is expected to be formally accepted by the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 77).

This acceptance will mean that any vessel that is subject to IMO SOLAS (International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea) regulations can fit either Inmarsat C or mini-C in order to comply.

However, the low-power requirements of mini-C also make it particularly suitable for smaller vessels, and for those not required to comply with IMO SOLAS regulations, thus extending the strength of Inmarsat safety services to even the smallest leisure vessel.

IMO COMSAR 7 agrees Inmarsat A proposal
 

Inmarsat’s decision to retire its hugely successful Inmarsat A service on December 31, 2007, has been endorsed by the 77th session of the IMO’s search and rescue sub committee (COMSAR).

The move to retire Inmarsat A means that more efficient use can be made of satellite capacity for its latest digital services, such as GAN and Fleet.

Existing Inmarsat A users will have the opportunity to make the transition to Inmarsat Fleet F77, which has been warmly welcomed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as a significant new service within the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).

In addition to GMDSS facilities, Fleet F77 provides customers with near global high-speed communications from a compact digital terminal. Inmarsat will work with its Partners at all stages of the planning process to ensure the migration from Inmarsat A to the new digital services is a smooth one.

Launched in 1982, Inmarsat A has been an extremely popular and valuable service over the past 20 years. However, the last type approval for a new maritime Inmarsat A terminal was in 1991 and increasingly spares and servicing capabilities are becoming more scarce.

Boat Show promotion for Inmarsat E
 

Inmarsat used this year’s London Boat Show to promote the Inmarsat E Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) system through a tie-up with the leading UK yachting magazine, Yachting World.

Inmarsat E is an ideal solution for the yachting market, so Inmarsat teamed up with the magazine to give away five Inmarsat E systems, provided by Inmarsat Partners Navtec and FastNet.

The competition to win the systems ran in the January issue of the magazine, which also featured a preview of the Boat Show, and was trailed on the cover of the magazine.

In addition, Inmarsat had space on the Yachting World stand at the show in which to display the product itself and brochures. Also, visitors to the stand were able to enter the competition.

The winners of the competition were drawn on 31 January 2003. They will be invited to receive their prizes at a special presentation to be held at Inmarsat’s London Headquarters.
 

Frenchman is first to win prestigious trophy
 

French driver Sebastian Loeb became the first driver to win the new Inmarsat Star of the Rally trophy in Monte Carlo, as he sped to victory in the inaugural leg of the 2003 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC).

Loeb's victory in the Monte Carlo Rally was part of a triple triumph for the Citroen team, including Briton Colin McCrae and Spain's Carlos Sainz, who managed to grab first, second and third place respectively.

Inmarsat and the WRC have introduced the Star of the Rally award for the 2003 season, as part of Inmarsat’s new two-year, exclusive global sponsorship deal. The trophy is presented to the individual – not necessarily a driver – who excels overall throughout each rally. The winner gets a bottle of champagne and a US$5,000 donation to the charity of their choice. The Inmarsat Star of the Season will be revealed at the final rally of the year, Rally GB in Wales.

The Monte Carlo Rally was the first time that the Inmarsat In Action technology showcase had been used to showcase Inmarsat products and services. It was used to stage live demonstrations of GAN and Regional BGAN and was due to be back in action again at the WRC Sweden, from 6-9 February and at WRC Turkey, 27 February – 2 March.

Fleet launches for Thrane, Nera, KVH and EMS
 

Inmarsat terminal manufacturer Thrane & Thrane has launched its first Fleet F55 maritime high-speed terminal.

The Capsat Fleet F55 terminal was unveiled at the recent Boot Düsseldorf exhibition (18-26 Jan) in Germany and follows the successful introduction of Thrane & Thrane’s Capsat Fleet F77 terminal in March 2002, which was the company’s first venture into the deep-sea market.

The Capsat F55 will be serviced and supported by Thrane & Thrane’s dedicated network of Capsat Fleet F77 distributors and service centers. It offers cost-effective global voice and spotbeam high-speed data communication based on either 64kbit/s ISDN or MPDS protocol with constant online access.

Nera GmbH displayed Fleet F33 terminals in conjunction with local Partner FastNet. Meanwhile, KVH used the show to throw the spotlight on its Tracphone Fleet 55 terminal.

EMS Technologies took the opportunity to launch its Fleet 55 Maritime Satellite Terminal at the Digital Ship Inmarsat Fleet Opportunities Conference being held in Hamburg, Germany, also in January.

The EMS Fleet 55 represents the latest terminal in the Inmarsat Fleet family of maritime services, offering boats at sea high-speed connectivity for voice and data applications at rates of 64 kbps. The Fleet 55 is the flagship product for EMS Technologies’ newly formed Maritime Group.
 

 

Services showcase at Aid & Trade 2003
 

Inmarsat will be share a stand with MVS USA at the International Aid & Trade show, which takes place at Palexpo in Geneva on 29-30 January.

The event is attended by dozens of organizations including the United Nations, aid agencies, government defense departments and disaster relief charities.

The MVS/Inmarsat exhibition stand will focus on GAN, Regional BGAN and mini-M. The capabilities of both Regional BGAN and GAN will be demonstrated live.

For more, go to www.aidandtrade.com/iat/europe