Starlink signs up Mitsui OSK Lines
December 13, 2022
By Chris Forrester
Japan-based Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL), a major shipping line, has signed up for broadband connectivity with Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite service. MOL joins other maritime operators, such as Norwegian Cruise Lines, to use Starlink.
MOL says it will work with satellite service provider Marlink for this trial of Musk’s technology. While only a trial at this stage it is worth noting that MOL operates a total of 698 vessels, including ferries and passenger lines.
“Starlink’s constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) enable much lower latency and higher-capacity communications than traditional satellites, and Marlink offers the services for maritime application with established satellite communication and Starlink,” said a MOL statement.
MOL added that the new satellite technology could enhance operating safety through various technological methods of ship-shore communications and dramatically improve onboard life for seafarers with high-speed communication.