Marine AIS-VDES LEO Satellite project to establish network for greener and safer ship navigation

Saab have announced that they will work together with ORBCOMM and AAC Clyde Space on a new Swedish space project to develop LEO satellite communication for the maritime sector. The project will use the VHF Data Exchange System (VDES), the same technology underpinning next generation Automatic Identification System (AIS) services. According to Saab, the new VDES package does not only enable safer, more sustainable and greener shipping but the technology also has spin-off potential for other industries.

The first demonstration satellite is intended to be followed by a larger constellation of satellites that will form the new part of the maritime communication infrastructure that is expected to increase VDES range from the shoreline to anywhere in the world.

An initial demonstration satellite will be produced in the first stage of the project, which is expected to be followed by a larger constellation of satellites to create a maritime communications infrastructure increasing the range of VDES transmissions to cover the entire globe, converting what is currently a predominantly coastal technology into a global maritime system.

Saab claim that all ships in service with VDES will be able to carry out two-way communication with each other across the globe, like a “secure wireless internet for shipping”.

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