Intellian Technologies Inc. has announced the commercial release of two new Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) terminals: the C200M and C700 GMDSS Systems, developed in partnership with Iridium Communications Inc.
The GMDSS is a mandatory safety system regulated by the International Maritime Organization, with an estimated 80,000 vessels worldwide required to maintain compliance.
Intellian’s new systems are designed to operate on Iridium Certus, the satellite network’s L-band platform, and offer global coverage, including in polar regions. The C200M has received both the Marine Equipment Directive Wheelmark and U.K. Marine Equipment Regulations Red Ensign approval. The C700 GMDSS system, set for release following the C200M, will be the only system on the market using the Iridium Certus 700 service.
The C200M package includes an antenna, below deck unit, and a safety display terminal. The terminal provides GMDSS functions such as distress alert, safety voice, and maritime safety information. According to Intellian, the interface is designed for straightforward operation in emergency situations.
“We are incredibly proud to be a key partner in bringing Iridium's transformative GMDSS service to market with the launch of our Iridium Certus GMDSS systems,” said Eric Sung, CEO of Intellian Technologies. “With over 20 years as a trusted name in maritime communications, we understand the unique challenges and critical need for reliable, truly global safety at sea services.”
The C700 terminal will support additional functions including long-range identification and tracking, ship security alert system, and non-GMDSS voice and data services, offering hybrid functionality as a backup to existing VSAT systems.
Wouter Deknopper, vice president and general manager of maritime at Iridium, stated, “Intellian’s two new GMDSS systems are a great example of a partner delivering on the promise of our GMDSS service. With the introduction of GMDSS on Intellian’s Iridium Certus terminals, the maritime community can now access this critical safety service via hardware already trusted for its reliability and ease of use.”
Intellian also plans to release a third GMDSS terminal, the C100M, and is currently developing MF/HF and VHF radios to support the full range of GMDSS requirements.
