Marlink antenna. Photo: Marlink.

Marlink has extended its global network by adding new Ku-band capacity to Sealink Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) services covering the Northeast Passage region, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans north of Russia. According to the company, the new capacity enables its customers transiting or working in the region above and below the Arctic Circle to benefit from high-speed maritime broadband to support safe and efficient operations.

The coverage expansion improves the reach of Marlink’s global VSAT network to meet the needs of verticals such as the fishery and offshore support sectors. With Arctic adventure cruising growing in popularity, cruise lines are keen to provide the same levels of connectivity available through Sealink in traditional destinations to ensure safety and enable guests to upload photos and videos to social media channels.

The offshore sector is also active in the Northeast region, with even more emphasis placed on safer operations due to the remote and environmentally sensitive location. According to Marlink, further digitalization of offshore operations to reduce the risk of accidents is vital for energy companies to gain exploration and production licenses in the region. In this context, the company expects Sealink’s availability will be a boost for the potential to exploit natural resources in the region safely and with minimal impact on the environment.

Marlink stated it has also recently added another satellite to transmit and receive data from Singapore, one of the most congested areas in Southeast Asia.