Maersk Line has selected Ericsson (News - Alert) to introduce end-to-end systems integration and deployment of mobile and satellite communication to its entire vessel fleet.

Until now, Maersk Line's high-tech modern container ships have been equipped with satellite connectivity primarily intended to support communication for vital shipboard functions. Ericsson's integrated maritime mobile and very-small-aperture terminal (VSAT) satellite solution will offer extended connectivity to the entire fleet, allowing for new ways of communicating and contributing to efficiency, reliability and cost reduction.

Offering extended access to information and, in turn, improved efficiency in the vessels' daily operations, the solution also paves the way for immediate access to remote expertise, the company stated in a press release.

“We're proud to be able to connect Maersk Line's fleet with our technology. We believe in a networked society, where connectivity will only be the starting point for new ways of innovating, collaborating and socializing. The result will be automated and provide simplified processes, higher productivity, real-time information allowing quicker, more informed decision making and problem solving," said Hans Vestberg (News - Alert), President and CEO of Ericsson.

There are more than 500 container vessels comprised in the Maersk Line fleet. Over the next two years, Maersk Line will furnish 400 of these vessels with Ericsson antennas and GSM base stations. In addition, upgrades will be made to the remaining vessels soon after. Ericsson will provide seven years of global managed services support, including 24/7 network monitoring and onboard maintenance services in a large number of ports across all major regions as part of the agreement.

Recently, the company also signed an agreement with MapleNet Wireless, Inc., a provider of wireless communications technologies, to sell Ericsson's portfolio of short- and long-haul microwave radio systems to network operators in the utilities, healthcare, education and municipal government segments. This affiliation with MapleNet is said to be a part of Ericsson's North America Indirect Channel Program that focuses on the market for PDH, SDH/SONET and IP/Ethernet fixed-wireless broadband networks.

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