Iridium Communications announced that it has shipped over 2,200 Iridium Pilot units over the past 12 months, ending 30 June.
The device is a maritime broadband satellite phone system powered by Iridium OpenPort Broadband System.
It offers up to 134kbps data services, allowing for instant email connection and quick access to the internet.
Wouter Deknopper, vice president and general manager of maritime at Iridium, said: “The strong performance of Iridium Pilot, combined with Iridium's progress towards achieving certification to provide Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) communications demonstrates that Iridium is poised to take the lead in one of the fastest growing verticals in the satellite industry.”
He added: “We are proud to be able to provide the industry what it needs, offering valuable and flexible alternatives for mariners who need reliable communications."
By Alice Mason