Singtel to Provide VSAT for 33 PIL Containerships

Singapore based shipping company Pacific International Lines (PIL) is installing satellite communication, or VSAT, on its entire fleet as part of its digitalization efforts to enhance seafarer wellbeing and improve productivity on board its ships. Communications technology group Singtel said it is one of the partners providing PIL with communications and cybersecurity solutions for 33 vessels in PIL’s fleet.

“As a progressive company, PIL is constantly looking for ways to achieve business excellence and optimize operational efficiency. With a fleet of around 100 vessels and over 4,000 seafarers, we recognize the benefits which digitalization brings. With the reliable VSAT service, we are able to further digitalize our ship management practices, such as implementing predictive maintenance of machineries on board our ships. This is done through transmission of data from ship to shore for real-time data analysis to monitor machinery performance, predict failures and recommend maintenance windows.

“In addition, the welfare of our seafarers is of utmost importance to us, and having robust internet connection onboard our vessels allows our crew members to stay connected with their family members while they are at sea. We believe this contributes greatly towards the wellbeing of our seafarers,” said Goh Chung Hun, General Manager, Fleet Division, PIL.

Ooi Seng Keat, Vice President, Carrier Services, OTT and Satellites, Group Enterprise at Singtel, said, “The maritime industry has been impacted by the pandemic and during this time, we have seen the demand for quality and consistent maritime communication skyrocket. With our expertise in communications and technology, we are excited to be working with Pacific International Lines to modernize their VSAT communication infrastructure and be able to help seafarers keep connected through essential crew wifi and internet communications that is crucial for open-sea communications.”

Singtel’s VSAT bundled solution, comprising AgilePlans by KVH VSAT services and TracPhone V7-HTS, provides global coverage which would support PIL’s demanding trade routes by offering stable and secure connectivity throughout different voyages, allowing the ship captain and crew members to focus on other high priority tasks.

Tailored to the needs of PIL, Singtel’s package comes with two VSAT channels - the High Speed Channel and the Unlimited Channel (Truly Global and HTS Satellite). The High-Speed Channel (10Mbps/3Mbps) allows for operational use by PIL, while the Unlimited Channel (2Mbps/512kbps) caters for the more data demanding cybersecurity applications and communication solutions aimed at improving crew welfare such as crew VoIP and crew data allocation. In addition, the advanced cybersecurity solutions complies with IMO 2021 guidelines, and it protects, monitors and updates the equipment on board PIL’s vessels with 24/7 technical support.