(ShareCast News) - FTSE 250 satellite communication services provider Inmarsat has entered into a new agreement with Satlink Satellite Communications to integrate its Global Xpress maritime solution Fleet Xpress into Satlink's existing service portfolio.As part of the agreement, Satlink will bring more than 1,500 vessels to the Fleet Xpress service over a five-year period.Inmarsat said Fleet Xpress is facilitating innovative 'connected ship' applications, delivers the highest levels of reliable, high-speed broadband connectivity and "exceptional performance" across all of the world's oceans, with continuous connectivity and guaranteed performance.Based in Cyprus, Satlink supplies, services, integrates and installs satellite communications equipment on-board. Its customers include merchant fleets, offshore, fishing and leisure vessels.Ronald Spithout, president of Inmarsat Maritime said: "Satlink is a long-standing Inmarsat Maritime Partner and we are delighted to further strengthen our relationship with this significant agreement."We are seeing an unprecedented uptake of the Fleet Xpress service since its launch last year, and by working with Satlink, we are able to extend our global reach and expertise to the market. The connected ship is no longer a concept, but now rapidly becoming a reality. With our, world-leading, high-speed broadband connectivity and a dedicated partner network, together we are revolutionising the industry and delivering tangible benefits in terms of vessel performance, driving operational efficiencies and improving the wellbeing of the crew."
