Offshore support vessel (OSV) company Uniwise Offshore, based in Thailand, is set to bolster the cyber resilience of its fleet by implementing Fleet Secure Unified Threat Management (UTM) technology from Inmarsat.
Integrated with the vessels’ Fleet Xpress VSAT communications systems, the UTM service will provide Uniwise with end-to-end network protection against cyber-attacks and intrusion via infected devices.
“In busy areas in the Gulf of Thailand usage on the network is high. Both business critical as well as extensive crew traffic must be protected and secured, hence we needed a satellite communications partner that has solutions specifically designed for maritime,” said Jon-Axel Hauglum, Co-Head of Business, Uniwise Offshore.
“We needed security, not only to minimise the risk of downtime during operations but also to safeguard our vessels from the growing threat of cyber-attacks. We identified Inmarsat as that partner. Fleet Xpress offers reliable connectivity and Fleet Secure UTM ensures robust network protection our operations require.”
The cyber service includes a range of network security tools designed specifically for the maritime industry. Managed through a single online portal and backed by a security operations centre, the system can detect and monitor threats to protect ships’ networks from attacks.
Implementing the system will also play a role in supporting Uniwise’s compliance with the International Maritime Organization’s 2021 functional cyber-security requirements for demonstrating cyber-risk management.
“Cyber-attacks are a growing concern for vessel operators worldwide. Fleet Secure UTM brings together all the tools owners need to assess and mitigate risks and establish a cyber-secure environment, while Fleet Xpress provides the reliable coverage to ensure these tools – and other business-critical applications – remain online even where demand is at its highest,” said Gert-Jan Panken, Vice President Direct Sales, Inmarsat Maritime.
Inmarsat’s package for Uniwise also includes Fleet Hotspot, which provides crew access to connectivity independent of the vessel’s bandwidth, delivered via a dedicated network.
