Feature: Losing Contact ... Not an Option
Maritime communications is an estimated $1 billion industry, encompassing ship operators, merchant fleets, governments and private yacht owners. There is arguably no more quickly evolving technical sector in the maritime market than the satellite communications niche. Safety, operational efficiency and quality of life onboard vessels of all type and size today more than ever depends on clear, reliable and cost effective satellite communication services and products. The following reports on recent advances from major service, product and system suppliers. The year started with news that Connexion by Boeing, a business unit of The Boeing Company, would roll-out its high speed satellite broadband capability for the maritime industry.
Calling All Mariners
Globalstar, L.P. brought its next-generation strategizing to fruition with the release of full commercial access of its mobile satellite service in the U.S. through its distributor Globalstar U.S.A. With the recent demise of Iridium, and ICO Global Communications' ongoing recovery from bankruptcy, Globalstar's entry into the market is seemingly ideal. Vessel owner/operators increasingly rely on state-of-the-art communication tools to ensure safe, efficient operations. Much as has transpired in consumer markets, the wider availability of communication technology — and subsequent drive-down of equipment and airtime pricing — fuels airtime usage.
Could it Be Curtains for Globalstar?
Mobile satellite telephone company Globalstar L.P. said on Monday it recorded a net loss of $3.8 billion in 2000 and it could seek bankruptcy protection if it cannot execute a restructuring plan. The company warned in an annual filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission that its restructuring plan may fail if it conflicts with certain restrictions under existing agreements or if it cannot forge an accord with its creditors. Globalstar is a partnership that was formed in November 1994 by satellite firm Loral Space & Communications Ltd. and cellular telecommunications company Qualcomm Inc. Loral owns about 38 percent of Globalstar L.P. Globalstar Telecommunications Ltd., the public Globalstar entity, owns more than 40 percent of the business.
