[Satellite TODAY 12-30-11] Global Marine Networks (GMN) signed a distribution agreement with Vobal to make its voice-over-IP (VoIP) services available to maritime customers and incorporate Vobal technology as part of GMN’s RedPort Global maritime services, the companies announced Dec. 29.

   The RedPort Global satellite VoIP services aim to provide a complete voice solution for maritime VSAT and Inmarsat FleetBroadband users. RedPort Global also offers a suite of satellite network management solutions for maritime and ship-to-shore communications. RedPort routers are Inmarsat-certified for use with Inmarsat VLA accounts for FleetBroadband service.

   “All RedPort VoIP hardware will include a full PBX to integrate or function as a vessel’s primary communications system. Prepaid voice access lets ship operators sell service easily to crew or passengers to create a new revenue stream, and satellite VoIP calls consume as little as 6 kbps thanks to the integration of Vobal technology,” GMN President and CTO Luis Soltero said in a statement.