Let’s begin by talking about what hybrid connectivity means. Do you think there has been an epiphany within all the sectors that you serve on why hybrid technology is so suitable? 

Hybrid connectivity is the new industry standard for resilient, secure networks that enable digitalisation for users in maritime, energy and enterprise sectors. By blending the available solutions using secure managed services, Marlink can meet customer needs at the level they require and unlock opportunities for their business. This can also enable new applications and new services for staff onboard or onsite, helping meet corporate objectives and welfare requirements.

Why should sectors that require mission critical connectivity and that operate in remote regions always consider a hybrid connectivity solution? 

The customers Marlink serves, ranging from energy and enterprise to maritime and leisure users all share the need for robust, reliable connectivity that only a hybrid network solution can deliver. Hybrid connectivity is the most reliable, resilient choice to enable diverse applications including cloud services, data and IoT and internet access for all users, seamlessly.

How are your customers using their connectivity?

The connectivity solutions we provide support a complete range of activity, from data collection and safety services to high bandwidth, low latency applications such as video and collaborative workflow tools. The solutions within a hybrid network will reflect the customer’s priorities, connecting cities or remote villages with connectivity for humanitarian users, ensuring critical operations and crew satisfaction in remote sites onshore and offshore in the energy market or digitally enabling global shipping operations.

What is your current multi-orbit strategy? As a reseller of Starlink, how do you see other LEO (and upcoming) LEO providers fitting in?

As an agnostic solutions provider we see all additions to our hybrid network as a benefit for our customers. The emergence of Starlink has proven the demand across all sectors for high bandwidth, low latency solutions and other LEO services will take their place in the portfolio. By providing a multi-orbit, multi-beam, multi-vendor strategy, Marlink can ensure the users stay secure and connected, wherever they operate.

Do you believe we will see decreased demand for GEO? Or is this all just speculation? And how critical are services in MEO for Marlink?

GEO and MEO services both have a place in a multi-orbit strategy; the user requirements decide which solutions to best suit their specific needs.

The maritime business was always quite slow to adapt to new technology but the adoption of VSAT systems has now really picked up and connectivity is a must nowadays. What is driving this?

It is not so much the adoption of one ‘product’ or another that is important for remote users in maritime, energy, cruise or enterprise sectors. What matters is using a solution that is fit for purpose, combining the elements the customer needs, whether that is better market intelligence, personnel or customer access, large scale data transfer or compliance.

How does Marlink differentiate itself in the competitive maritime connectivity market?

In maritime, just as in other sectors, we have a focus on capability that goes beyond simply connecting assets. Our strategy is to be the leader in provision of managed end to end IT solutions, based on a portfolio of services spanning Connectivity, Network, Cloud and IT, IoT and Cyber Security.
As a technology pioneer, Marlink is known as a company that pushes boundaries to create ever-better solutions, designing and managing the most advanced hybrid networks that unify satellite and terrestrial connections and address customer pain-points.

Which segment of your business is experiencing most demand for digitalization?

The trend across all our market sectors is for a combination of high bandwidth, low latency LEO services, provided within a secure managed network that enables digitalisation and the delivery of smarter, safer working in remote locations. As a result, we see a lot of interest growing in cyber security technology and this has been supported by the recent acquisitions of Diverto and PortIT, to add further capability to our cyber portfolio.

In your opinion, which next-generation technology is going to have the biggest impact on your business? 

It seems clear that AI will play an increasing role in business and social networking. This creates exciting opportunities for asset owners and operators, as well as for personnel working in remote locations. Within the framework of managed services we provide we can support the use of AI applications that drive efficiency, compliance and safety for people and assets.