Frequently Asked Questions: Iridium Certus GMDSS

Along with distress alerting and the distribution of Maritime Safety Information (MSI), Iridium GMDSS—available exclusively through the Lars Thrane LT-3100 terminal—includes safety voice, a feature currently only offered by Iridium.

Iridium Certus GMDSS-connected terminals offer the maritime community an all-in-one solution that covers all International Maritime Organization (IMO)-mandated safety and security services, such as GMDSS, Long-Range Identification & Tracking (LRIT), and Ship Security Alert System (SSAS). These terminals also serve as powerful L-band companions to Ku-/Ka-band broadband technology.

Iridium GMDSS terminals can connect to an approved GMDSS printer, but this is not required for operation. Per IEC 61097-16, Edition 1.0, 2019-07, Part 16: If the vessel requires to use the approved GMDSS printer, a manufacturer-supplied printer adapter is required.

Iridium GMDSS requires no billing intermediaries and thus does not create unpredictable AA costs. Provision and billing services are provided directly with the Iridium GMDSS Service Provider (SP).

Yes. In addition to GMDSS, Iridium enables a ship’s business-related voice and data calling, including tracking, SMS and email. If an Iridium Certus GMDSS terminal is connected, the higher IP data speeds are an ideal companion or backup to VSAT or Starlink equipment. However, at all times the user is assured that any safety- or security-related services will take absolute priority over any non-safety/security connectivity.

Iridium Certus GMDSS terminal manufacturers have designed their respective terminals with regulatory compliance in mind. When Iridium Certus GMDSS terminals are installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines, they are compliant with International Maritime Organization (IMO) cybersecurity recommendations. However, Iridium recommends contacting the terminal manufacturer for further details and installation guidelines.

Iridium Certus GMDSS terminals cover all International Maritime Organization (IMO)-mandated safety and safety and security services, such as GMDSS, Long-Range Identification & Tracking (LRIT), and Ship Security Alert System (SSAS). These terminals also serve as powerful L-band companions to Ku-/Ka-band broadband technology. Iridium Certus GMDSS terminals are cost efficient, because a single terminal reduces hardware investments and enables the deactivation of aging Inmarsat C equipment, which typically comes with increasing service costs.

From a cost perspective, it is highly efficient because a single Iridium Certus GMDSS terminal reduces hardware investments and enables the deactivation of aging Inmarsat C equipment, which typically comes with increasing service costs. Secondly, in terms of future readiness, Iridium’s satellite network has a projected longevity beyond 2035, making it a much more forward-thinking choice for long-term reliability compared to Inmarsat C’s aging technology.

Long-Range Identification & Tracking (LRIT) is a security provision for real-time identification and tracking of vessels. LRIT information is sent every six hours to the vessel’s flag administration. All Iridium Certus GMDSS terminals are LRIT-capable upon installation. Iridium works with the three main LRIT Application Service Providers (ASPs): Polestar, CLS and Kemilinks. Automated LRIT position reporting is not charged to the end user nor the Service Provider (SP). LRIT charges are covered by the ASP authorized by the subject flag state.

The Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) is a security provision against piracy and terrorism. Much like a silent alarm in a bank, it sends an alert to designated onshore parties when a ship’s security is compromised. SSAS position reports are charged on an event basis to the subscriber’s Service Provider (SP). Iridium Certus GMDSS terminals provide SSAS when adding peripherals as supplied by the GMDSS terminal manufacturer. The hardware kit typically includes a breakout box, a set of alarm buttons, and wiring.

Per flag state mandate, two active GMDSS terminals are typically required per vessel. In addition, most vessels to date still have a separate LRIT and/or SSAS terminal. These terminals are primarily aging Inmarsat C terminals. By upgrading to an Iridium Certus GMDSS configuration, the shipping company will benefit from enhanced crew safety (including safety voice) and reduced costs offered by Iridium’s “all-in-one” safety, security and companion services.

Iridium continues to see a strong desire from shipping companies to upgrade their aging Inmarsat C terminals. Even more so, they are looking for more capable equipment with improved network reliability. Flag states typically mandate two GMDSS systems on a vessel. With Iridium Certus, we expect to see significant adoption of dual Iridium systems whereby an Iridium Certus 200 or 700 terminal with GMDSS functionality will be fitted alongside a smaller form-factor Iridium Certus 100 GMDSS terminal. This setup will address both VSAT or Starlink companion connectivity and mandatory safety requirements.

From both a technical and operational standpoint, Iridium is confident in the upgradability of the existing Iridium Certus equipment. However, we are awaiting a more definitive answer from our manufacturers as they are currently working through the certification process for their GMDSS solutions. We expect an update on this matter in early 2025 and request our partners to have a dialogue with Iridium Certus GMDSS terminal manufacturers.