600 satellite alerts from marine vessels in 2015

Inmarsat has revealed that more than 600 distress alerts from marine vessels in urgent need were broadcast over the service in 2015.

In a statement, the company said that this figure “demonstrates how the decision made by IMO administrations requiring all ships of more than 300 gross tons to be fitted with a Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) remains pivotal in protecting lives at sea”.

Inmarsat said that it is the only safety services provider in the world approved to deliver GMDSS under the rigorous International Convention for the Safety of Life At Sea requirements.

“Over its lifetime, GMDSS has made the biggest single contribution to maritime safety since the advent of radio in 1899,” Inmarsat Maritime President Ronald Spithout said. “We are immensely proud of Inmarsat C’s unparalleled contribution to GMDSS in the last 25 years. Thousands of lives have been saved and countless ships rescued as a result.”

The company is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the introduction of Inmarsat C.

The Inmarsat C service links vessels in distress and Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres (MRCCs) around the world. With proven availability of 99.9%, Inmarsat C always prioritises seafarer distress alerts to MRCCs and to nearby ships.

Today, approximately 100,000 vessels rely on Inmarsat C to provide vital communications, at the press of a button.

“In 2020 we expect to launch the latest generation satellite constellation — Inmarsat-6, continuing our 35+ year commitment to L-band and safety services,” confirmed Spithout.