Korean researchers report that they have completed the first real-world verification of a new maritime Internet of Things communications network, following tests off the Korean coast using 3GPP-standard technology.
The Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) says the system can support simultaneous connections for up to 30 devices over distances of up to 35km.
The network is designed to collect data from sensors installed on ships, ports and marine facilities to support environmental monitoring and public safety applications. ETRI says the system could be used to track small boats and floating objects, as well as supporting the management of Aids to Navigation.
The researchers built an independent network using the 450MHz public frequency allocated by the Korean Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries in 2023. A base station was installed at Odongdo Lighthouse in Yeosu in June, with 30 terminals placed at six test sites, including light buoys.
Further demonstrations were carried out in August using a base station at Maldo Lighthouse in Gunsan, with terminals installed at lighthouses in Gunsan Port, Bieung Port, Janghang Port and Gyeokpo Port.
ETRI reports that a 27km communication link was achieved between Odongdo and Nangdo Port, while the Maldo station successfully connected with Janghang Port at 35km. Devices transmitted GPS location, light status, shock detection and battery data every three minutes, with 30 AtoN devices in Yeosu and Gunsan connecting simultaneously during the trials.
The organisation says commercial test equipment has verified that the system can support up to 1,000 simultaneous connections. Plans are in place to build a pilot MIoT network in Korea’s East, West and South Seas from 2026, expanding nationwide after 2030.
ETRI notes that the MIoT system uses low-power transmission and message prioritisation for safety services and is intended to complement existing maritime communication networks.
“The world’s first verification of an MIoT communication network in the actual ocean is not just a technology demonstration, but also a foundation for the creation of new industries based on maritime big data and the expansion of national maritime safety infrastructure,” said Dr Cho Seong Chul, project leader for this research.
