Hapag-Lloyd, one of the world's leading liner shipping companies with a fleet of 258 modern container ships and a total transport capacity of 1.9 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent unit), is set to revolutionize connectivity at sea with the introduction of SpaceX Starlink satellite internet technology.
This strategic decision follows a successful pilot phase that commenced in May, during which crewmembers aboard four pilot vessels had the opportunity to test Starlink technology. The feedback from these trials has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting a remarkable improvement in communication for seafarers. The high-speed satellite internet provided by Starlink has enabled seamless video calls and streaming services, fundamentally transforming the way seafarers stay connected while at remote seas.
Dr. Maximilian Rothkopf, COO at Hapag-Lloyd, expressed his enthusiasm for the development, saying, "We are very happy to provide our seafarers with Starlink's high-speed satellite internet and thus to enhance their well-being on board. But also for Fleet Management the change in communication and connectivity will be huge," stated Rothkopf on September 21.
The company says that the Starlink satellite network boasts an impressive bandwidth of up to 250 megabits per second, not only catering to private use but also facilitating remote maintenance and vessel inspections. This innovative approach is expected to result in significant cost savings for Hapag-Lloyd and an increase in service quality across its fleet.
The next phase of this ambitious project involves completing the ordering of the necessary technology and antenna installation by the end of 2023. Subsequently, the stepwise activation of the service on the company's ships is scheduled to commence in early 2024. Donya-Florence Amer, CIO/CHRO at Hapag-Lloyd, emphasized the significance of this technological leap forward, stating, "Implementing the new technology to our fleet marks a significant leap forward in ensuring maritime connectivity and stands to revolutionize the way our seafarers stay connected while at sea."
Hapag-Lloyd's commitment to embracing SpaceX Starlink satellite internet reflects the company's dedication to enhancing efficiency and safety across its vast fleet while prioritizing the well-being and connectivity of its seafaring workforce. As this transformational project unfolds, it promises to set a new standard for connectivity in the shipping industry.
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Featured Image Source: Hapag-Lloyd press release
About the Author
Evelyn Janeidy Arevalo
Evelyn J. Arevalo joined Tesmanian in 2019 to cover news as a Space Journalist and SpaceX Starbase Texas Correspondent. Evelyn is specialized in rocketry and space exploration. The main topics she covers are SpaceX and NASA.
