[Satellite TODAY 09-23-11] Inmarsat has named FleetBroadband terminal developer Thrane & Thrane its key launch manufacturer for its upcoming Global Xpress service, the MSS operator announced Sept. 22.

   As a result of the agreement, Inmarsat Global Xpress will launch live in 2013 and be supported by Thrane & Thrane Sailor terminals that are custom designed for use with the maritime Ka-band service.

   Inmarsat said that as its Global Xpress launch manufacturer, Thrane & Thrane will be uniquely positioned to offer L-band/Ka-band combination packages in line with the operator’s expectations, as well as provide Global Xpress terminals to shipping companies and offshore entities.

   “The higher data speeds and compact terminals mark Global Xpress as an important development in the world of maritime communications. We are keen to use the knowledge and experience we have acquired as a long-standing Inmarsat manufacturer to ensure the new Sailor terminals capture the promised speed, reliability and flexibility of the forthcoming new service,” Thrane & Thrane Vice President of Maritime Business Casper Jensen said in a statement.

   Separately, Thrane & Thrane announced it expects to announce the commercial availability of its new Sailor 900 VSAT antenna terminals by the end of the month.