Inmarsat Maritime Signs MOU with Aramco to Undertake 5G Mesh Network Trial

The 5G “mesh” tech aims to facilitate high-speed connectivity in demanding conditions, with trials intended to indicate a range far beyond what was formerly possible. Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat firm, has reportedly signed an MoU with Aramco, a global energy and chemicals business, to launch an innovative 5G “mesh” network trial that strives to deliver high-bandwidth connectivity in Aramco’s offshore work in the waters of the Arabian Gulf.

The tech is planned to offer high-speed communication while satisfying the needs of the climate—including harsh heat, sandstorms, wind, and water evaporation—thanks to 5G’s enhanced reliability in poor weather conditions.

The MoU follows prosperous outdoor network testing in Rutland Water, the UK, in February this year, establishing dependable and elevated throughput millimetre Wave (abbreviated mmWave) signal propagation over waters. Advanced testing of the 5G mobile Integrated Access and Backhaul (abbreviated as IAB) network and specific developments of Inmarsat Maritime will be carried out in dire weather conditions on the Arabian Gulf later this year.

The testing of 5G mesh (introduced by Inmarsat Maritime) in the Arabian Gulf with Aramco targets showcasing the world’s long-range and high-throughput mIAB deployment over the sea – far exceeding the max 1km range that was previously possible. The technology has the potential to let Aramco optimize offshore operations via the 5G mesh and, at the same time, enable its capabilities like competent remote maintenance and other remote operations.

This will incorporate monitoring and metering with IoT sensors, assisted operations for staff equipped with advanced reality headsets, unique safety and security features, and the possibility for heightened cost savings and efficient energy use.

Inmarsat Maritime’s progressive ground infrastructure delivers inbuilt cybersecurity and data protection. Thanks to the bonded network solution of Inmarsat Maritime, which is onboard 14,000+ vessels worldwide, vessels that operate further from the shores can supplement ground-based 5G with excellent satellite coverage.

Reference: Inmarsat

Inmarsat Maritime Signs MOU with Aramco to Undertake 5G Mesh Network Trial appeared first on Marine Insight – The Maritime Industry Guide

Source: Maritime Shipping News