Marlink has agreed a new partnership agreement with satellite communications infrastructure company Newtec, which will see Marlink expand its use of Newtec technologies in the delivery of global maritime VSAT services.
Marlink will adopt the Newtec Dialog technology platform to support the provision of maritime satcom services under the deal, with the companies’ having previously worked together in providing connectivity to the Enterprise market.
Newtec Dialog is a multiservice VSAT platform that allows operators and service providers to flexibly adapt their satellite infrastructure according to business requirements. Using the platform, Marlink says it will be able to take advantage of network virtualisation functionalities to improve its services.
“Enhancing our high-quality VSAT network with Newtec Dialog will enable us to build an even more future-proof network for our customers on land and at sea,” said Erik Ceuppens, CEO of the Marlink Group.
“We continue to invest in our VSAT network to meet our customers’ increasing demand for global high-speed connectivity and enable them to enhance business efficiency through more flexible and cost-effective operations.”
Marlink already uses the iDirect Evolution platform in providing VSAT services to maritime, and will now add the Newtec platform to its portfolio of technology options. iDirect’s parent company ST Engineering agreed a deal to purchase Newtec for €250 million in March 2019, so the two companies will likely be part of the same group in the near future.
“Digital transformation is playing a critical role in all aspects of business today and adding Newtec Dialog for maritime, as well as enterprise customers, is a logical step forward,” said Newtec CEO Thomas Van den Driessche.
“As a pioneer in the delivery of business-critical IT, communications and digital solutions, Marlink is a managed service provider both sectors can count on. We are therefore incredibly proud that Marlink has chosen Newtec to enhance its Maritime VSAT network and continue its high standard of service for customers around the world, both today and in the future.”
Sealink Flex
In related news, Marlink has also announced that it is set to launch a Sealink Flex VSAT service to provide new connectivity options for seasonal users and those with constantly varying bandwidth requirements, such as offshore and cruise/passenger companies.
Sealink Flex will have more than 100 bandwidth choices, and a range of antenna widths from 85cm to 1.5m.
Bandwidth can be temporarily increased or decreased for periods ranging from a single day to several months on the service, with guaranteed minimum rates available. Six high-speed zones in strategic offshore areas around the globe have also been created where bandwidth boosts can be provided on request.
