Japanese shipowner Fukujin Kisen is to deploy a new hybrid communications network combining VSAT and Starlink on board, with L-band back-up, following the agreement of a new deal with Marlink.
Imabari-based Fukujin Kisen owns and manages a variety of vessels including container ships and product carriers, with a primary focus on bulk carriers chartered out to shipping companies in Japan and overseas.
Marlink already provides communications to the fleet under an existing deal, with the new set-up finalised following a trial Starlink installation on one of the company’s Capesize bulk carriers alongside its VSAT and L-band installations.
During the trial, Fukujin Kisen used the LEO internet service to provide a higher Maximum Information Rate (MIR) alongside the guaranteed Committed Information Rate (CIR) provided via VSAT.
“The philosophy of Fukujin Kisen is that tradition is not maintained but built; we must continually make progress in order to serve our customers and retain the skills and experience of our crew,” said Masaki Takabatake, Manager, Marine Project Group Leader, Fukujin Kisen.
“This expansion of our long-standing relationship will enable us to deploy LEO internet onboard and support our ESG initiatives to improve crew welfare and conditions onboard ship for our seafaring teams in the digitalisation era.”
