Telenor Satellite Services improve SSAS

Telenor Satellite Services today announced that it is expanding its Inmarsat C and Mini-C system at the Eik earth station in Norway making it easier for ship owners to comply with the new global Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) requirements defined by IMO. Telenor’s commitment to provide SSAS solutions via its global satellite communications network is intended to motivate ship owners worldwide to implement this new IMO directed security directive that requires certain vessel types to install an SSAS by July 1, 2004. Other types of cargo vessels and offshore facilities must comply by July 2006.

SSAS is designed to improve security of maritime vessels by helping to combat the growing number of piracy and terrorist attacks at sea. The SSAS alert is a one-way, ship-to-shore alarm that originates aboard ship and is transmitted by an authorized communications provider to a competent authority as designated by the vessel’s flag state. The flag state authority is then responsible for notifying the appropriate response agencies.

“For over 30 years, life and safety at sea and our close coordination with international Maritime Rescue Control Centers has remained a fundamental mission of Telenor Satellite Services,” said Tore Hilde, chief executive officer of Telenor Satellite Services. “Telenor views this as an essential commitment to the welfare of the maritime community as well as a public duty that this company fully supports.

Telenor has established communications links in its earth stations to accommodate IMO Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Regulation XI-2/6 and offers SSAS solutions via Inmarsat C and Mini-C. Telenor will also offer SSAS solutions via its Iridium services.