New system enables vessels to receive global satellite phone service at sea, plus basic satellite Internet access
KVH Industries, Inc. (KVHI) announced the introduction of the TracPhone Fleet One marine satellite communications antenna system, a 28 cm diameter unit designed for vessels needing global satellite phone service and basic satellite Internet access.
The TracPhone Fleet One complements KVH’s other Inmarsat-based offerings in the FleetBroadband family and its own TracPhone product line for mini-VSAT Broadband service.
Utilizing Inmarsat’s airtime service, the TracPhone Fleet One offers satellite phone service everywhere at sea except the polar regions, and provides data speeds up to 100 Kbps, typically sufficient for email and limited Internet access along the coast worldwide. The antenna system has an MSRP of $4,995, and the basic airtime plan provides 50 minutes of voice and 5 MB of data for $49.99 per month.
In addition, the TracPhone Fleet One system supports the free ‘505’ safety service, directing any emergency calls to a rescue center.
“The demand for satellite phone service and broadband connectivity at sea continues to grow, and KVH offers the most complete line of solutions,” said Brent Bruun, KVH executive vice president for mobile broadband. “From the weekend sailor or small fleet owner using Fleet One to the most sophisticated global commercial maritime operators taking advantage of our global mini-VSAT Broadband service, we offer a capability set and price point matched to customers’ needs.”
