AST Iridium GMDSS Services

Applied Satellite Technology Ltd (AST) has been announced as a service provider for the Global Maritime Distress and Safety Communication System (GMDSS).

The new service, scheduled to be launched in the first half of 2020, will provide mariners with truly global GMDSS satellite services and will offer a new choice of satellite network and equipment.

Iridium® GMDSS will be the first to implement all three GMDSS services - voice security, distress alerts and the exchange of safety information at sea, as well as the ability to use Iridium global voice and data services - all in one cost-effective and compact terminal.

The GMDSS is a life safety system created by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), designed to save sailors in distress at sea. Its satellite communications capabilities are regulated by the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO).

The system consists in part of satellite networks that transmit distress information to rescue coordination centers around the world and allow the distribution of navigation and meteorological information to ships on the world's waterways, contributing to a safer sea voyage.