Iridium GMDSS
Iridium provides a fully recognised GMDSS solution — the first alternative to Inmarsat — with truly global coverage including the polar regions.
Background
The Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) is the international standard for maritime safety communications. The International Maritime Organization recognised Iridium as a service provider in 2018, and the service was authorised to start in January 2020 — adding a second satellite option to the Inmarsat services that previously held the role alone.
What's included
- Distress alerting — single-button activation, location-tagged
- Two-way voice with Rescue Coordination Centres
- Safety messaging, plus Maritime Safety Information (MSI) broadcasts
- Long-range identification and tracking — optional, on supported terminals
- Polar coverage — the differentiator vs Inmarsat in the GMDSS context
Approved terminals
Iridium GMDSS terminals include the Lars Thrane LT-3100S and LT-4100S. Each requires correct installation, type-approval and operator commissioning.
Specialist site
Iridium GMDSS is a regulated, vessel-specific specification with installation, commissioning and ongoing requirements. We operate a dedicated GMDSS information site — get in touch and we'll point you to the right pages and the right install partner.
Get a GMDSS quote
Send us the vessel particulars (flag, length, IMO number if applicable), the operating area, and any existing safety equipment. Contact us.