Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat company, has struck a new deal with Ava Ocean to deploy its connectivity service, NexusWave, on board Ava Ocean’s new non-invasive scallop harvesting vessel later this year.
Ava Ocean, formerly Tau Tech, already uses Inmarsat’s Fleet Xpress aboard its existing vessel to maintain critical communications in the remote Barents Sea.
“Our unique fishing operation takes place in the Barents Sea, where Fleet Xpress has been valuable to maintain stable communications supporting both operations and crew welfare,” said Preben Molnes, operation manager at Ava Ocean.
“For the new vessel, we look forward to upgrading to Inmarsat’s NexusWave, further improving communication channels onboard.”
With the addition of NexusWave, Ava Ocean will be able to benefit from real-time integration of multiple networks, including GX Ka-band, LEO, LTE along with L-band services. There are future plans to add ViaSat-3 Ka-band.
The new system promises unlimited data and high-speed connectivity, enabling Ava Ocean to carry out environmentally sensitive operations while maintaining the safety and welfare of its 30-plus crew.
Ava Ocean claims its innovative harvesting methods aim to protect fragile marine ecosystems by identifying and selecting marine life with minimal disruption to the ocean floor.
“It is a privilege to continue our collaboration with Ava Ocean – a company that leads the way in sustainable seabed harvesting in the Arctic Ocean,” said Christopher Hansen, sales manager at Inmarsat Maritime.
