Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite operator OneWeb has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the AST Group (AST) to partner on offering broadband connectivity on the OneWeb network to the maritime sector.
AST and OneWeb will offer services to both fixed-land and maritime customers, with customer beta trials delivering fixed services for remote connectivity in Northern Europe expected to be undertaken by AST before the end of the year. Full commercial services are planned to be made available in 2022.
“OneWeb believes that connectivity at sea should be as seamless and simple as it is on shore to improve the overall efficiency, sustainability and profitability of the maritime and offshore industries,” said Carole Plessy, Head of Maritime at OneWeb.
“We’re proud to work with the AST Group, not just because of the strength of its market insight, reach and capabilities, but because of our shared belief that remote, faultless connectivity is essential to delivering operational excellence.”
“By partnering with AST, we are another step closer to making LEO connectivity available to more marine and offshore customers, ending the legacy of complex, slow and costly VSAT systems.”
