Iridium Satellite announced that it has certified the EMA Group's BlueTraker(R) Long-Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) ship terminal to provide LRIT services over the Iridium satellite network. EMA is an Iridium Value-Added Reseller and Value-Added Manufacturer.
The Iridium certification parallels the flag state approvals currently underway, ensuring that the EMA BlueTraker system adheres to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Resolution MSC.263(84), which establishes performance standards for LRIT shipboard systems. BlueTraker LRIT terminals are provided by Pole Star Space Applications Limited, a U.K.-based Application Service Provider, as well as other EMA distributors worldwide. BlueTraker was also recently awarded type approval by the German classification society, Germanischer Lloyd.
As part of a Canadian coast guard-funded project, Pole Star is currently installing aboard three Canadian coast guard vessels, a suite of tracking equipment utilizing different terminals and satellite services, including the BlueTraker LRIT terminal. The three vessels will be navigating Arctic waters during the coming season, and as part of the project the performance of each terminal will be analyzed and mapped. Upon completion, the Canadian coast guard will officially report the project results to the IMO and at various Arctic meetings and symposia.
EMA also provides the BlueTraker LRIT transponder with an optional Arctic kit. Designed specifically for ships operating in severe cold and in Sea Area A4, the kit enables reliable performance at temperatures down to minus 50 degrees Celsius and is certified by Intertek of Finland for Arctic operation.
(www.bluetraker.com)