Vega Reederei reports that it has signed an agreement with Inmarsat Maritime to equip 10 of its new diesel-electric coaster vessels with the NexusWave satcom system.
NexusWave combines Global Xpress (GX) Ka-band, Low Earth Orbit (LEO), GSM, and L-band networks to provide connectivity services. The contract also includes the integration of cyber-security systems, specifically Fleet Secure Unified Threat Management (UTM) and Fleet Secure Endpoint.
The short-sea general cargo ships, which measure 89 metres and have a 3,800-deadweight-tonne capacity, are scheduled for delivery by July 2026, with the first ship of the series, the Vega Petra, having entered service in 2025.
The vessels have been designed for fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, with the potential for future upgrades to all-electric operations and wind-assisted propulsion.
“Our innovative new fleet of diesel-electric coasters reflects our commitment to modernising operations for optimum efficiency and environmental performance,” said Leon Constantin von Plato, Head of the Technical Department at Vega Reederei.
“Having a connectivity solution that keeps pace with our innovative approach, offering robust cyber-security, unlimited data, and resilience, will support us in achieving these goals.
The deal follows recent agreements for the deployment of NexusWave technology with Auerbach Marine and Krey Schiffahrt. Inmarsat says that it plans to further enhance the service in the near future by leveraging parent company Viasat’s new ViaSat-3 Ka-band satellites to provide additional capacity and higher speeds.
