In response to concerns about Houthi drone threats to American warships operating in and around the Red Sea, the U.S. Navy has carried out a crash program to enable Freedom class littoral combat ships (LCS) armed with radar-guided AGM-114L Longbow Hellfire missiles to fire those weapons against uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), or drones. This new counter-drone capability from the Freedom class LCSs first emerged at the Surface Navy Association’s main annual symposium earlier this week. The Navy responded to TWZ’s queries for more information sent on Jan. 15 by directing us to a press release put out the following day. (more…)
On a cold, dreary Thursday in Philadelphia, a smattering of people came to the waterfront to see the former Kitty Hawk class aircraft carrier U.S.S. John F. Kennedy (CV-67) begin its final journey. Nicknamed “Big John,” the Kitty Hawk class sub-variant began a trip from the U.S. Navy’s Inactive Ship Maintenance Facility to the International Shipbreaking Limited facility in Brownsville, Texas. There it will be cut up and its remnants sold for scrap. After 17 years in Philadelphia, Big John is expected to arrive at its final destination sometime next month, a Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) spokesman told The War Zone. It will transit south through the Atlantic Ocean, around the Florida peninsula, and then across the Gulf of Mexico. No date has been set for the ship’s dismantling. (more…)
Philippines and U.S. Conduct Joint Maritime Exercises in South China Sea
MANILA, Jan 19 – The Philippines and the United States recently conducted their fifth joint maritime exercises in the South China Sea, a move that underscores the strengthening alliance between the two nations. This development is particularly relevant to the maritime industry, highlighting the strategic importance of the South China Sea and the collaborative efforts to maintain regional stability.
The Impact of Tropical Cyclone Sean on Western Australia’s Maritime Industry
Tropical Cyclone Sean, forming off the coast of Western Australia, has led to the closure of key ports in the iron ore-rich Pilbara region. This event highlights the vulnerability
The Panama Canal, a vital waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, has been at the center of a longstanding controversy involving the United States, particularly under the presidency of Donald Trump. The canal, which is considered a crucial component of global trade, has been a point of contention due to its strategic importance and the potential for economic and political leverage. In this article, we will delve into the history of the Panama Canal, the reasons behind Trump’s desire to regain control, and the implications of such a move on the maritime industry.
The Panama Canal, a crucial waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, has been the subject of an ongoing controversy, particularly during Donald Trump’s presidency. The canal, a vital component of global trade, has been a source of contention due to its strategic importance and the potential for economic and political leverage. This article will explore the history of the Panama Canal, the reasons behind Trump’s desire to regain control, and the implications for the maritime industry.
The maritime industry has long relied on satellite communication systems to stay connected while traversing the vast and often remote expanses of the world’s oceans. Traditionally, Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) technology has been the backbone of this connectivity, providing a vital link for ships at sea. However, with the advent of new technologies such as Iridium, Starlink, and FleetBroadband (FBB), the maritime industry is experiencing a significant transformation in its communication systems.
VSAT: The Traditional Choice
VSAT systems have been the primary mode of satellite communication for the maritime industry, offering a range of benefits including high-speed data transfer and voice connectivity. However, VSAT systems have some limitations, such as signal interference and blockage, which can be mitigated by using backup systems like Iridium and FBB. For instance, Iridium Certus offers a reliable and durable SATCOM solution with unmatched coverage to the entire planet.
Iridium: A Reliable Backup
Iridium is an L-band system that offers superior coverage and reliability, making it an ideal backup solution for VSAT systems. With a unique network architecture of 66 crosslinked, Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, Iridium L-band delivers highly reliable and durable SATCOM. Iridium Certus, in particular, provides a high-quality voice and data connection, allowing ships to stay connected even in the most remote areas.
FBB: A Maritime Global Satellite Internet
FleetBroadband (FBB) is a maritime global satellite internet, telephony, SMS texting, and ISDN network for ocean-going vessels. FBB enables data transfer up to 432 kbps, making it an ideal solution for ships that require a reliable and fast internet connection. FBB is often used as a backup to VSAT systems, providing a seamless transition in case of VSAT outages.
Starlink: The New Kid on the Block
Starlink is a relatively new player in the maritime satellite communication market, offering a high-speed, low-latency internet connection. Starlink’s portfolio provides yacht owners with seamless, home-like connectivity, whether cruising or anchored. However, it’s essential to note that Starlink is still a developing technology, and its suitability for the maritime industry is still being explored.
Comparison of VSAT, Iridium, FBB, and Starlink
Each of these technologies has its strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of which one to use depends on the specific needs of the ship or vessel. VSAT systems offer high-speed data transfer, but may be prone to signal interference. Iridium and FBB provide reliable backup solutions, but may have slower data transfer rates. Starlink offers high-speed, low-latency internet, but its suitability for the maritime industry is still being explored.
Conclusion
The maritime industry is experiencing a significant transformation in its communication systems, with new technologies like Starlink, Iridium, and FBB emerging as viable alternatives to traditional VSAT systems. As the industry continues to evolve, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest developments and advancements in maritime satellite communication systems. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each technology, ship owners and operators can make informed decisions about which system to use, ensuring reliable and efficient communication at sea.
You might call it a golden opportunity. Some yacht owners like to be inconspicuous. That’s not the case for the owner of the 162-foot Khalilah, whose sports yacht is painted gleaming gold, has its own matching miniature chase (more…)
The maritime industry is experiencing significant changes, with sustainability and environmental impact reduction becoming increasingly important. One innovative approach being considered is nuclear power for maritime shipping. The U.S. Department of Energy has emphasized nuclear power’s potential in maritime shipping due to its efficiency, reliability, and reduced carbon footprint. This article explores the key aspects of nuclear-powered maritime shipping, examining its benefits, challenges, and future prospects. (more…)
Legal Challenge to Biden’s Offshore Drilling Ban: Implications for the Maritime Industry
In a significant development for the maritime industry, a coalition of Republican-led states has filed a lawsuit challenging the offshore drilling ban (more…)
By Paul-Alain Hunt
Jan 17, 2025 (Bloomberg) – Australia’s largest iron ore export hub, Port Hedland, has been closed as a tropical cyclone develops offshore the Pilbara region of Western Australia state. (more…)
