Eutelsat Group, the only GEO-LEO operator in satellite communications has announced an agreement between Eutelsat OneWeb and breakthrough live action motorsport Extreme E to connect the St. Helena. This is a 6,767 gross ton ship which acts as transport facility and floating VIP hospitality club for Extreme E.

The ship is used to transport the motor racing teams innovative Odyssey cars and all ancillary cargo. The ship is one of the first to have installed Kymeta Peregrine maritime user terminals and the installation, integration and support of the connectivity services are being managed and supported by OmniAccess.

Eutelsat OneWeb’s consistent high-speed, low latency connectivity will deliver significantly increased reliability and data-rates of up to 200 Mbps, enhancing life onboard for Extreme E’s race crew, support teams and onboard scientists.

Ali Russell, CEO, Extreme E said: “With this collaboration we are literally accelerating towards a connected future for everyone. Beyond being a unique sporting spectacle, Extreme E is also a sport with a profound purpose, committed to making a positive impact on the planet and driving change for a sustainable future. We operate in the remotest areas of the world and know the value of high-speed connectivity and that’s why we are so excited to be increasing our collaboration with Eutelsat OneWeb and its ecosystem.”

Carole Plessy, VP Maritime and Europe at Eutelsat OneWeb, said, “We are thrilled that Eutelsat OneWeb together with its partners OmniAccess and Kymeta have connected the St. Helena to the internet, enabling communications from ship to shore no matter where she sails. Together with our partners Kymeta and OmniAccess, we are demonstrating the fully serviced ecosystem of specialist connectivity now readily available to the maritime industry.”

Carlos Carbajal, CEO, OmniAccess, said, “We are delighted to be part of this ground-breaking collaboration with Eutelsat OneWeb, working together to deliver cutting-edge connectivity solutions for the St. Helena, a pivotal component of Extreme E’s motorsport and sustainability operations. As we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in maritime communications technology, OmniAccess remains committed to providing innovative solutions that cater to the evolving needs of our clients.”