LEO satellite networks, including Starlink and Iridium Certus, are revolutionizing connectivity with global coverage..jpg

The critical data requirements included: 

- Engineer passenger reports and returns, and welfare
- Crew welfare
- Business-critical data, including email and ECDIS updates

Whilst Starlink provided the necessary bandwidth, the customer faced challenges with data consumption. The vessels were exhausting their monthly mobility data allowance before the billing cycle ended, leaving them vulnerable to losing communication capabilities at sea. 

**The Solution: Hybrid Connectivity**

Enhancing vessel connectivity and data management with LinkBox Companion from AST Networks utilising a Starlink connection. 

To address the challenge of managing data usage and ensuring continuous communication, the customer integrated AST Networks LinkBox Companion into their onboard systems. LinkBox provided a multi-faceted solution:

**1.	Data Management and Least-Cost Routing:**

LinkBox enabled the customer to manage data effectively, preventing unnecessary wastage. It introduced least-cost routing by integrating a 4G LTE modem, which ensured that the most cost-effective network was utilised whenever possible. When the vessel was docked and within range of cellular coverage, the LinkBox Companion automatically switched to the 4G LTE network, reducing reliance on the Starlink satellite connection. Starlinks’ network was only utilised when the vessel was out at sea, and cellular coverage was lost. This strategic use of networks led to a significant reduction in data usage over Starlink and provided immediate cost benefits. 

**2.	VLAN Integration and Access Management:**

LinkBox supported the adoption of existing Wireless Access Points (WAPs) onboard and ensured seamless access to all Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) on the vessel. Data traffic was categorised and routed through three distinct VLANs: Crew, Business, and Passenger. Each VLAN was configured with specific privileges and restrictions based on the Starlink bearer, ensuring that critical operations were prioritised. 

-	Crew and Passenger VLANs
Access to streaming services like YouTube and Netflix was restricted, and unnecessary updates – including push notifications – were blocked. However, social media, real-time messaging apps - such as WhatsApp, and email were allowed to maintain communication with friends, family, and the office. Traffic shaping policies were enforced, limiting each VLAN to a Maximum Information Rate (MIR) of 10 Mbps download and 2 Mbps upload, preventing high data demand from impacting business-critical communications.

-	Business VLAN:
The business VLAN had unrestricted internet access, vital for the vessel’s operations, and was limited to the captain to maintain control over critical functions.

**3.	Content Filtering for Enhanced Security**

To ensure a secure and compliant onboard environment, explicit content filtering was implemented across all VLANs for the Starlink connection. This proactive measure blocks access to inappropriate or harmful content, protecting both crew and passengers while maintaining adherence to regulatory standards. By safeguarding the digital landscape onboard, we’re committed to providing a safe and controlled internet experience for everyone on the vessel.

**4.	Remote Management:**

LinkBox is fully manageable remotely from the AST Networks support team in Great Yarmouth, UK, offering 24/7 assistance. The support team can implement changes such as creating new VLANs, modifying firewall policies, and setting up new SSIDs without requiring direct communication with the crew. This remote capability significantly enhances operational efficiency and responsiveness to the vessel’s requirements. 

**Results**

The integration of LinkBox Companion with Starlink significantly improved the vessel’s communication capabilities whilst optimising data usage. By effectively managing and routing data through the most cost-effective networks, the customer was able to:

- Reduce Starlink data consumption by leveraging the 4G LTE network when available.
- Maintain continuous communication at sea without exceeding data allowances.
- Ensure business-critical operations were prioritised without being impacted by crew and passenger data usage.
- Enhance crew and passenger welfare by providing controlled internet access for essential communication while preventing unnecessary bandwidth usage.

The customer now enjoys a more efficient, reliable, and cost-effective communication system onboard their vessels, with the added assurance of expert remote management and support.

“Integrating AST Networks’ hybrid connectivity solutions, specifically the LinkBox Companion, has been a game changer for our fleet’s communication systems.” Said  Martin Rice, CEO Farra Marine. “We were facing challenges with data consumption on Starlink, but the LinkBox’s advanced data management and least-cost routing drastically optimised our usage. By Seamlessly switching to 4G LTE when in range and prioritising critical operations through VLAN integration, we not only maintained continuous communication at sea, but also significantly reduced overall costs. The remote management feature has also ensured that our operations remain smooth and responsive, no matter where we are. This solution has truly transformed the way we manage connectivity onboard.”

**Conclusion**

This case highlights the importance of integrating advanced data management solutions like LinkBox Companion in maritime operations. By aligning network usage with operational priorities and cost considerations, the customer achieved significant improvements in connectivity, data management, and overall efficiency, ensuring that their vessels remain connected and operational, regardless of their location. 

[Watch the video case study here](https://youtu.be/chZwzS94XLI)

Enhancing Vessel Connectivity and Data Management with Hybrid Connectivity Solutions

Discover how a maritime fleet optimized communication and data management with AST Networks' LinkBox Companion, integrating Starlink and 4G LTE for cost-effective, reliable, and secure onboard connectivity.

Case Study: Transforming Maritime Connectivity with Hybrid Solutions

LinkBox Case Study

Ship_Shot_1.jpg

With up to 43 crew members on board, the vessel needed terrestrial-like speeds and seamless internet access to meet modern-day demands for crew welfare, compliance, and operational efficiency. The solution delivered by AST Networks and Opus ensures uninterrupted connectivity, even when navigating in extreme weather conditions, maintaining reliable communications for up to 10 weeks at sea.  

**Challenges**

- Ensure continuous, high-speed connectivity for over 40 crew members 

- Deliver a high-capacity, high-performance solution with Arctic coverage 

- Support crew welfare and business operations despite harsh and unpredictable weather 

JFK Seafoods needed a connectivity solution that would not only enable their new vessel to function efficiently as a fish processing and production hub, but also ensure that their crew could access modern conveniences such as internet communication, media streaming, and cloud-based services whilst away from shore.  

**Solution Delivered by AST Networks and Opus** 

To meet these demands, AST Networks turned to Eutelsat OneWeb’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) network, known for its reliability and high-performance connectivity in polar regions, making it ideal for the Gadus’ operation in the Arctic. Partnering with Opus, AST Networks installed Intellian’s dual parabolic OW70M antennas, selected for their ability to maintain high-speed, low-latency connectivity, even in extreme temperatures and challenging sea conditions.  

**Technology Used:**

- Eutelsat OneWeb LEO network: Provides guaranteed bandwidth and ensures uninterrupted service in remote locations. 

- Intellian OW70M terminals: These advanced terminals support seamless satellite handover and provide reliable high-speed performance, even in sub-zero temperatures, thanks to integrated heating technology. 

The OW70m terminals allow the vessel to track and switch between satellites effortlessly, ensuring continuous connectivity despite the ship’s movement and potential satellite blockages. This solution was chosen for its optimised G/T (12.2dB/K), providing the capacity and low latency needed for critical operations and crew welfare.  

**Key Contributions from Opus**

Opus played a pivotal role in the installation of the satellite terminals, ensuring that the system was tailored to meet the specific demands of Arctic operations. Their expertise ensured that the equipment was correctly integrated and optimised for harsh maritime environments. Working alongside AST Networks, Opus guaranteed the system’s long-term reliability, bringing their local knowledge and installation skills to the project.  

**Results and Benefits** 

With the successful implementation of the Eutelsat OneWeb network and Intellian hardware, the Gadus vessel is now equipped with world-class connectivity, transforming life and work on board. 

Unmatched Arctic Connectivity: The Eutelsat OneWeb network ensures exceptional performance even in the polar regions, allowing the Gadus to maintain uninterrupted communications for business operations and crew needs. 

Crew Welfare: The crew enjoys access to streaming services, real-time communication with family and friends, and cloud services, making extended voyages more comfortable and connected. 

Business Continuity: Critical operational needs, such as file transfers, cloud access, and real-time communication, are fully supported, ensuring the smooth running of the vessel’s business functions. 

Jonathan Lee, Technical Lead at AST Networks, remarked: 
_“Through our partnership with Intellian, Eutelsat OneWeb, and Opus, we’ve delivered a solution that meets the rigorous demands of operating in the Northern Seas. Our integrated system ensures that the Gadus maintains reliable and high-speed connectivity, enhancing both crew welfare and business efficiency. Even in the harshest conditions, we’re setting new standards for maritime connectivity.”_

**Conclusion**

The partnership between AST Networks, Opus, and Intellian has set a new benchmark for maritime connectivity, especially in extreme environments like the Arctic. By delivering reliable, high-speed internet access, the Gadus operates not only as a high-tech fishing vessel but also as a connected, comfortable workspace for its crew. The collaboration exemplifies how cutting-edge technology, and expert installation can provide superior results, no matter the challenges. 

Stephen Conley, Eutelsat OneWeb Senior Director Maritime offering, said:
_“We are proud to be connecting 6,000 tonnes of modern technology that can float and fish more sustainably as well as improve the lives, workplace, and livelihoods of the people onboard who are away at sea for weeks at a time. With AST Networks we have deployed a solution with built-in service level agreements around the quality of service, as well as plans and features that are tailored to requirement, and a commitment to capacity that vessel owners, operators and crews everywhere will always demand at sea. Intellian’s OW70M is robust and built to withstand extreme temperatures and weathers. Partnerships like these help us to transform the maritime industry."_

[Watch the video case study here!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZaLzmxCsyQE)

AST Networks Provides Ultra-Reliable Connectivity for Gadus Fishing Vessel in the Arctic Ocean

Commercial Fishing 

The owners JFK Seafoods of the brand-new fishing and processing vessel "Gadus" sought a cutting-edge connectivity solution to bolster crew welfare and maintain business operations during extended voyages away from its home port in the Faroe Islands. They turned to AST Networks and Opus, a local installer of satellite terminals, to deliver a robust solution to capable of providing the level of connectivity required. 

Intellian onboards fishing and processing vessel with ultra reliable connectivity in Arctic Ocean with AST Networks 

Powered by Eutelsat OneWeb’s constellation of 650 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites and backed up by AST Networks' years of experience in remote communication solutions - our partnership is based on the shared belief that remote, faultless connectivity is essential to delivering operational excellence. 

To be part of the future of connectivity, [visit our dedicated page](https://www.ast-networks.com/solutions/one-web)

AST Networks & Eutelsat OneWeb Connectivity Services

Eutelsat OneWeb is building an unparalleled end-to-end system that supplies fibre-like data speeds to remote areas.

AST Networks and Eutelsat OneWeb believe that connectivity at sea should be as seamless and simple as it is onshore.

Eutelsat OneWeb Network Service

Asset Maintenance Management Maritime

Intellian & Eutelsat OneWeb Case Study

NavComs-16.jpg

**Solution Development** 

**Equipment Selection:** The current onboard equipment was reviewed, and a new X-Band radar was selected based on the customer’s preference and the chosen brands reputation for reliability.  

**Quotation Process:** A quote was produced for a complete X-Band radar system, ensuring delivery within the UK, and an approved engineer network was involved in the generation of the installation quotation, with the same engineer utilised to install the new unit. The solution selected was the lowest cost of ownership in the overview of those presented for consideration.  

**Customer Engagement:** Continuous account and project management allowed us to gather feedback and address any customer concerns from the very beginning, facilitating a smooth decision-making process and installation. 

**Project Execution** 

**Quote Accepted:** The customer accepted the quote, confirming the decision to proceed with the purchase of the new X-Band system and installation. 

**Scheduling and Logistics:** Time frames and delivery locations were confirmed, and the installation team were notified of the timeline, aligned with the vessels drydocking schedule. Pre-installation tests on land were completed before installation. 

**Final Preparations:** The installation team boarded the vessel at the time of docking to confirm the scope of work, the Account Manager also attended to meet with the customer, ensuring clarity throughout the project – which ran smoothly from start to finish. 

**Installation and completion:** 

**Work Execution:** The new X-Band radar was installed successfully, with the install team adeptly handling a last-minute change to the work, which required moving the radar monitor from its original positioning.  

**Project Wrap-Up:** The project was completed on time, with all work scope changes incorporated seamlessly. The customer was more than satisfied with the installation, appreciating the thorough communication and professional execution throughout the process. 

**Positive Results**

The proactive approach of account managing, and project coordination, ensured a smooth and successful installation of the new X-Band radar. The vessel was equipped with upgraded radar capabilities, enhancing its navigational safety and operational efficiency. The collaborative efforts between the account manager, installation team, and the customer resulted in a positive experience between all parties, highlighting the importance of detailed planning, clear communication, and adaptability in project execution.  
 

 

 

Successful Installation of X-Band Radar for Vessel Drydocking 

Autonomous Vessels

Commercial Shipping

Consumer & Leisure

NGO's & Environmental

Government & Security

Discover how NavComs successfully installed a new X-Band radar system during a vessel’s drydocking in the UK. The project involved detailed planning, customer engagement, and seamless installation, enhancing navigational safety and operational efficiency.

NavComs Case Study: Successful X-Band Radar Installation for Vessel Drydocking

Servicing clients in a variety of industries, including commercial maritime, oil & gas, mining, and automated vessels, both on land and at sea. 

AST Networks' next-generation Internet connectivity and the growth of new Ka-Band GEO and LEO Constellations with the ability to deliver over 10x the bandwidth of legacy VSAT, at lower latency, represents a major technological advance and significantly expands the addressable remote communications market.  

We offer independent assistance to guarantee that customers have the best communication solution to match their company needs along with local engineers and knowledgeable sales employees. Additionally, we offer a staffed 24/7 Global Customer Support service to guarantee service continuity and trustworthy support from fully licenced individuals. 


AST Networks provides leading companies across the globe with Ku VSAT network, failover L-band services, hardware, bandwidth, and round-the-clock personal assistance. 

AST Networks Global VSAT Satellite communications services and Coverage Map

Marine Electronics

NavComs Case Study: X Band Radar

Photography of a remote building in the middle of a field and trees to illustrate a blog on how satellite internet broadband can help

aerial-view-rural-landscape-crops-field.jpg

**The Challenge**

The customer encountered several challenges, including dependency on a third-party for back-end services, with limited technical expertise. They were seeking a comprehensive, ready-to-use solution, that required minimal technical involvement from their part. 

**The Solution**

AST Networks addressed the customer needs by providing a fully managed VPN solution, from supplying and configuring our LinkBox device, to facilitating installation within in the  customer’s infrastructure. This solution  provides the customer  with a secure  VPN tunnel between the satellite infrastructure and the customer’s network. Our team handled all aspects of hardware provision, configuration, and installation, ensuring a seamless set-up process. 

The implementation of our solution yielded numerous benefits for our customer; we were able to significantly reduce the technical involvement required from their side, relieving them of the burden of having to manage  complex infrastructure. We also were able to remove the pressures of the customer having to monitor and manage the service, as our team handle all aspects of maintenance and support, keeping the VPN connection operational 24/7. 

With AST Networks acting as the sole point of contact, communication was streamlined, and we delivered a solution that ensures transparency and accountability in the data delivery process.

**The Results**

By providing a turn-key solution and comprehensive 24/7 support, we enabled our customer to secure their data transmission effectively, whilst minimising their operational complexities, ensuring uninterrupted remote connectivity across their remote field locations. 


Case Study

Mining

AST Networks implemented a fully managed VPN solution for secure data transmission, simplifying operations and providing 24/7 support for a customer using Inmarsat BGAN terminals in remote locations.

Case Study: AST Networks Delivers Secure VPN Solution for Remote Data Transmission

Asset Maintenance Management Land

AST Networks Australia

AST Networks assist to secure customer data delivery

Two 4x4 offroad vehicles driving through the desert with a satellite communications device on the roof

Two-offroad-vehicles-in-the-desert.jpg

With each van accommodating two personnel for two-week intervals, sustaining reliable and robust satellite internet connections are crucial for both operational and recreational needs. Given the non-technical background of end-users, coupled with the remoteness of deployment sites, ease of use and remote diagnostic capabilities were critical factors in their requirements. 

**The Challenge**
This project faced several challenges. Firstly, the lack of technical expertise among on-site personnel presented a hurdle in efficiently managing, and troubleshooting, complex remote connectivity systems. Secondly, the limited backup communication options highlighted the necessity in ensuring high availability and reliability for the deployed solutions, especially when facing the possibility of potential disruptions or failures. 

The infrequent depot visits for maintenance further stressed the need for robust and durable systems capable of withstanding prolonged periods of operations without extensive intervention. Addressing these challenges early on required a comprehensive approach prioritising simplicity, reliability, and resilience. 

**The Solution**
In response to the customer’s needs, AST Networks provided a comprehensive turn-key solution addressing connectivity, communications, and ease of operation requirements. Key deliverables included:

**-	Comms-on-the-Pause VSAT**
Integrated onto van rooftops, our solution ensures single-press deployment and stow capabilities, facilitating quick setup and pack-up during regular relocations. 

**-	Shared VSAT Bandwidth**
Bandwidth can be efficiently distributed among all of the client vehicles, optimising costs and ensuring consistent remote connectivity.

**-	LinkBox with Wi-Fi Connectivity**
AST Networks LinkBox solution incorporates robust networking solutions, enabling the seamless transition to the best placed network, in order to reduce costs and maximise consistent connectivity. 

**-	Web & Application Filtering**
We implemented web and application filtering to align with the client’s business policies, ensuring controlled internet access, whilst also providing entertainment for crew to help improve welfare. 

**-	Wi-Fi calling & Voice Communications**
We added support for Wi-Fi calling on iOS and Android devices, alongside VOIP services   via onboard Cisco IP handsets, enhancing the fleets communication capabilities.

**-	Fully Managed Support**
AST Networks provides remote visibility of onboard systems, enabling proactive monitoring, troubleshooting, and maintenance on a 24/7 basis. 

**The results**
By delivering a tailored solution specific to our customer’s needs, AST Networks has delivered a network solution that prioritises ease of use, reliability, and efficient connectivity management. 

We’ve empowered our client to operate seamlessly, in the most remote and challenging environments through our commitment of understanding their unique needs. Our delivered solution provides comprehensive support and ensures optimal performance and customer satisfaction, even in the harsh conditions of South Australia’s outback. 



Discover how AST Networks provided robust, easy-to-use satellite internet and communication solutions for remote road maintenance operations in South Australia, ensuring reliable connectivity and 24/7 support in challenging outback conditions.

Case studies