Inmarsat Maritime Connectivity Solutions

Inmarsat Maritime Connectivity Solutions | Global VSAT & L-Band

Inmarsat Maritime Connectivity represents one of the most reliable and globally recognized satellite communication ecosystems for the maritime industry. Established in 1979, Inmarsat was originally created to ensure safety and communication for vessels at sea. Over the decades, it has evolved into a multi-layered connectivity provider serving shipping, offshore energy, government, emergency response, and aviation sectors worldwide.

In 2023, Inmarsat was officially acquired by Viasat, a leading U.S.-based satellite operator. This strategic merger unified Inmarsat’s global maritime heritage with Viasat’s advanced satellite capacity and ground infrastructure, creating a next-generation connectivity platform designed for higher speeds, greater resilience, and seamless global coverage.

Today, Inmarsat Maritime solutions enable vessels to remain always online, supporting business operations, crew welfare, navigation safety, and mission-critical communications—anywhere in the world.

24 / 7 Support

Always Online

Our Support

Full Service

NexusWave – What It Is and How It Works

What Is NexusWave?

NexusWave is Inmarsat/Viasat’s fully managed, bonded maritime connectivity solution. It intelligently combines multiple satellite and terrestrial networks into a single, seamless broadband service, delivering exceptional speed, low latency, and high availability.

Unlike traditional single-network VSAT systems, NexusWave dynamically blends different access technologies in real time—without disruption to onboard users or applications.

Networks Used in NexusWave

NexusWave integrates multiple layers of connectivity to ensure optimal performance everywhere:
- GEO satellites (Inmarsat GX Ka-band) for global high-throughput coverage
- LEO satellites for low-latency and responsive applications
- LTE (4G) networks near coastlines and ports
- L-band redundancy for always-on fallback connectivity
This intelligent bonding architecture ensures uninterrupted service even during satellite handovers, coverage transitions, or network degradation.

Key Benefits of NexusWave
- Real-time bonded multi-network architecture
- Download speeds exceeding 330–340 Mbps in live maritime tests
- Enterprise-grade cybersecurity and traffic management
- Unlimited data plans with predictable OPEX
- True global maritime coverage across all ocean regions
NexusWave is ideal for fleets requiring maximum uptime, digital transformation readiness, and future-proof connectivity.

GX Advantages

Seamless global coverage (excluding extreme polar regions)
Secure, scalable broadband connectivity
Proven reliability for offshore and deep-sea operations

GX remains a cornerstone of Inmarsat Maritime Connectivity, delivering consistent performance worldwide.

Inmarsat GX (Global Xpress) – High-Speed Ka-Band VSAT

What Is Global Xpress?
Inmarsat Global Xpress (GX) is a Ka-band VSAT platform delivering high-speed broadband through a global constellation of high-throughput GEO satellites. GX serves as the primary bandwidth layer within NexusWave and can also operate as a standalone VSAT solution.
How GX Works at Sea
GX supports data-intensive maritime applications such as:
- Video conferencing and VoIP
- Cloud-based enterprise systems
- Real-time vessel monitoring
- Crew welfare internet and streaming
- Business-critical operational traffic

FleetBroadband (FBB) – Reliable L-Band Maritime Service

What Is FleetBroadband?

FleetBroadband (FBB) is Inmarsat’s trusted L-band maritime service, offering simultaneous voice and data connectivity via compact satellite terminals. It is widely used for mission-critical communications, safety services, and operational reliability.

FleetBroadband Features

Standard IP speeds up to 432 kbps
Simultaneous voice calls and data sessions
Global coverage (excluding extreme polar regions)
SMS, email, and distress services (including 505 emergency calling)
Multiple voice channels on larger terminals

FleetBroadband is often deployed as a primary safety link or a redundant backup to VSAT systems.

LTE Mobile Connectivity in Hybrid Maritime Solutions

What Is LTE in Maritime Connectivity?

LTE (4G mobile networks) are used near shorelines, ports, and coastal regions. In hybrid solutions like NexusWave, LTE is seamlessly integrated to enhance performance and reduce satellite bandwidth costs when terrestrial coverage is available.

Benefits of LTE Integration

Cost-effective bandwidth near shore
Improved resilience through traffic offloading
Automatic, disruption-free switching between LTE and satellite

NexusWave dynamically detects and blends LTE with satellite networks to optimize both performance and cost efficiency.

LEO Connectivity & Terminal Models

LEO in the Inmarsat Maritime Ecosystem

While Inmarsat does not currently operate its own dedicated LEO constellation, NexusWave integrates LEO broadband services through partnerships—most notably with Eutelsat OneWeb.

LEO connectivity delivers:
- Low latency performance
- High throughput data rates
- Expanded global reach as constellations mature
This multi-orbit approach strengthens the resilience and responsiveness of Inmarsat Maritime Connectivity.

Kymeta Peregrine u8 – LEO Terminal Solution

The Kymeta Peregrine u8 is a next-generation flat-panel LEO satellite terminal designed for maritime and mobile environments.

Key features include:

Electronically steered array (ESA) antenna with no moving parts
High-speed, low-latency broadband connectivity
Optional integrated LTE and Wi-Fi
Compact, low-profile design suitable for vessels and vehicles

These terminals are commonly deployed in hybrid and LEO-enabled maritime solutions, particularly where low profile and rapid network switching are required.

Why Choose Inmarsat Maritime Connectivity?

Inmarsat Maritime Connectivity combines decades of maritime expertise, multi-orbit satellite architecture, and enterprise-grade service management into one globally trusted solution. With Viasat’s backing, the platform continues to evolve toward higher speeds, lower latency, and smarter network intelligence.

For shipowners, operators, and offshore industries, Inmarsat delivers what matters most at sea: reliability, safety, and always-on connectivity—anywhere on the planet.

Our Blog

News