Norwegian shipowner will deploy high throughput, low latency LEO solution to create digital possibilities for fleet of 70 vessels

Marlink, a leader in managed services for business-critical IT solutions, is supporting digital transformation for tanker and gas carrier operator Knutsen Group.

A long-standing Marlink customer, Knutsen Group has supplemented its fleetwide VSAT installations with two Starlink LEO terminals on each of the 59 vessels and a further 19 newbuildings.

Knutsen Group had already investigated the potential of LEO services to bring a new level of applications and user experience to its sea staff and asked Marlink to upgrade its fleet to the complete Sealink NextGen solution.

The upgrade provides Knutsen Group with several benefits including:

• High bandwidth, low latency LEO internet connectivity enables new applications within a secure hybrid network;
• Improved business and welfare services meet group ESG commitments and business objectives.

Marlink’s customer integration team worked closely with Knutsen Group to implement the solution across the fleet to ensure a seamless start to the full service.

Combining LEO, VSAT and MSS in a seamless, end-to-end managed service, Sealink NextGen will enable Knutsen Group to improve user experience and application performance. The company will also trial Marlink’s software-defined routeing (SD-WAN) solution, to optimise network management and the reliability of business-critical communications.

“As a specialised operator focused on safety and efficiency, Knutsen Group works with trusted partners, which made Marlink the natural choice to support our digital transformation,” said Thomas Svendsen, IT Manager, Knutsen Group. “Expanding the range of applications available for business functions and crew welfare will create new opportunities for Knutsen Group going forward.”

“The scale and scope of this Sealink NextGen upgrade clearly demonstrates solid teamwork and efficient workflows within our teams and the client,” said Tore Morten Olsen, President, Maritime, Marlink. “The possibilities that this hybrid network solution creates for Knutsen Group will support their strategy for fully digitalised operations.”