A 2020 report found that 74% of respondents expect ships’ satellite communications budget to increase by more than 25%
International satellite service operator IEC Telecom Group has acquired Maritime Network Systems (MNS), a superyacht communications specialist based in Spain, as part of its larger maritime digitalization strategy. The purchase will bolster the satellite company’s hybrid satellite/LTE solutions portfolio across the Mediterranean region.
According to Jan Holmen, general manager at Maritime Network Systems, each yacht’s connectivity needs is unique, and therefore, an individual and customized approach is almost always necessary. “Joining IEC Telecom Group allows us to expand the flexibility of our offer to our VIP clients,” he added.
MSN has been providing these tailor-made satellite and LTE broadband connectivity services to the yachting industry for more than 22 years, and the acquisition by IEC Telecom will introduce a wider range connectivity solutions, including Starlink connectivity, customized VSAT systems, resilient L-band backup, as well as IEC telecom’s collection of value-added services.
Access to the Mediterranean is a huge win for IEC because 47% of world yacht trips are based in the region, said the companies. “Welcoming MNS to IEC Telecom Group is a new milestone in our journey to transforming the maritime communications market,” commented Erwan Emilian, CEO at IEC Telecom Group. “The niche expertise of MNS coupled with an advanced solution portfolio from IEC Telecom will enable real-time network management for captains and very high-throughput quality browsing for end-users.”
And it’s something the yachting world wants. In fact, a 2020 Superyacht Connectivity Report found that 74% of respondents — made up of skippers, senior crew, chief engineers and technical professionals — expect vessels’ satellite communications budget to increase by more than 25%.
“We aim to resolve the challenges that yacht operators face by providing services which satisfy the ever-evolving need for high-speed data transmission and analysis and reliable connectivity,” said Emilian.
Delivering advanced connectivity solutions out at sea is becoming a higher priority across the communications ecosystem. Last week, China Telecom announced plans to launch a 5G- and Wi-Fi 6-equipped cruise ship with Adora Cruises. The pair will combine 5G and satellite technology to ensure reliable and high-quality coverage, as well as enable a host of digital applications like augmented and virtual reality.
