Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) goes live with Marlink smart hybrid network solution including Starlink LEO services
Japanese shipping giant starts using new, fully integrated high-speed solution to kick-start its strategic Future Illustration Project, designed to guide the company’s crew strategy in an era of digital transformation
Oslo and Paris, – Marlink, the smart network and digital solutions company, is enabling Japanese Shipping Company Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) to evaluate the impact of LEO Internet services on business sustainability and crew welfare.
Under an agreement struck at the end of 2022, the leading Japanese shipping company will assess past, present and future user experiences and explore access how Internet access can contribute to the company’s crew recruitment and retention strategy, using the low-latency Starlink service within Marlink’s smart hybrid network solution.
MOL is using Starlink’s LEO solution on board its fleet of car carriers to provide an additional layer of high-speed connectivity on board its fleet, which Marlink has combined with Sealink VSAT and L-band backup to create a next-generation hybrid network solution, controlled and monitored by Marlink’s XChange management platform. Starlink’s LEO service forms an integral part of Marlink’s hybrid network solution, designed to provide a reliable Committed Information Rate (CIR) in combination with unparalleled Maximum Information Rate (MIR) performance.
As a provider of a modern, global fleet of car carriers, MOL will study Internet usage patterns at sea and identify future needs through surveys of crew members to assess the added value of LEO Internet services. The Future Illustration Project will examine, among other subjects, how Marlink’s unique network solution can enhance operational safety and boost information transparency for all crew members through better access to social networks, applications, chat tools and the MOL intranet.
Despite the advances in ship technology and navigation, seafarers have faced persistent challenges in communication and connectivity at both their work and life. MOL firmly believes that ensuring reliable and efficient communication infrastructure on ships not only enhances the recruitment and retention of proficient crew members but also paves the way for seamless digital transformations that revolutionize the industry.
The availability of high bandwidth, low latency internet access will enable the crew to access social media, entertainment services or improve the quality of video calls to keep in touch with friends and family at any private time. MOL will not only benefit from a more qualified and motivated crew but will also be able to use the higher bandwidth provided to optimise digital tools and operational processes to remain compliant with shipping operations in transition to a zero-carbon economy.
About Marlink
Marlink is the trusted partner in fully managed smart network solutions, based on an intelligent hybrid network and unrivalled digital solutions, that connects people and assets around the globe and in all markets where conventional connectivity cannot reach or is unavailable. Marlink’s hybrid network combines global satcom and terrestrial technologies via a proprietary global infrastructure.
XChange, Marlink’s integrated management platform, orchestrates and optimises all network elements and applications, from data processing and IT to application-based routing (SD-Wan), cloud access and digital solutions, including remote data and IT, cyber security as well as IoT/OT solutions.
This gives customers complete “peace of mind” that their chosen network solution is fully optimised, integrated and has the security required to operate more profitably and sustainably, increasing their efficiency and security through operational optimisation, tracking, routing, monitoring and reporting.
Marlink’s Smart Network Solutions are delivered as managed services to the highest quality standards and service level agreements. The company proactively monitors and supports network solutions, providing alerts, reporting and insight into the performance and usage of connectivity, systems and applications, as well as advice and consultancy on how to further optimise customers’ networks.
Please visit www.marlink.com for more information.
About Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL)
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) is a Japanese shipping company based in Toranomon, Minato, Tokyo, Japan. It is one of the world’s largest shipping companies. Its fleet includes dry bulk carriers, LNG carriers, car carriers, oil tankers, container ships and container terminals.
MOL, as a social infrastructure company centred on the sea, sustains people’s lives and ensures a prosperous future from the blue oceans. The Group will develop a variety of social infrastructure businesses in addition to the traditional shipping business cultivated over its 140-year history, and will meet evolving social needs, including environmental protection, with innovative technologies and services.
For more information, please visit www.mol.jp