AMTS Offers Iridium-Based Services

[Satellite Today 06-15-09] Absolute Maritime Tracking Services (AMTS) is offering long-range identification and tracking through the Iridium satellite network, AMTS and Iridium Satellite LLC announced June 10.
    AMTS, joint venture of Absolute Software Inc. and PC Holdings, operates the national data center and acts as the identification and tracking application service provider for Panama, the world’s largest merchant maritime registry. As an Iridium value-added reseller, AMTS is able to sell and provision Iridium-based connectivity to ships flying the flag of Panama, a market estimated to include more than 8,000 vessels.
     Under new regulations that the International Maritime Organization has adopted, ships subject to the International Convention for Safety of Life at Sea must be equipped with an approved device that reports its location and identification to a database operated by the administration under which the vessel is flagged. This database may be accessed by authorized users, such as national coast guards, at regular intervals.
    Three valued-added manufacturers — Collecte Localisation Satellites, EMA and Faria WatchDog Inc. — have tested their products for operation on the Iridium satellite network and offer a solution for compliance for ships flying the Panamanian flag.