Uniwise Offshore, a Thailand-based offshore support vessel (OSV) company, has boosted cyber-security standards across its OSV fleet by adopting technology from Inmarsat, a mobile satellite communications specialist.
"With reliable connectivity delivered by Inmarsat’s Fleet Xpress, Fleet Secure Unified Threat Management (UTM) provides Uniwise with end-to-end functionality to protect its network from cyber-attacks and intrusion via infected devices," Inmarsat said.
"In the busy Gulf of Thailand, where a majority of Uniwise’s OSVs operate, connectivity is a key requirement. During prolonged downtimes and when usage is high, vessels become susceptible to cyber-attacks which could impact vessel operations and result in significant business losses for both owners and charterers," Inmarsat said.
Jon-Axel Hauglum, Co-Head of Business, Uniwise Offshore, said: “In busy areas in the Gulf of Thailand usage on the network is high. Both business critical as well as extensive crew traffic must be protected and secured, hence we needed a satellite communications partner that has solutions specifically designed for maritime. We needed security, not only to minimise the risk of downtime during operations but also to safeguard our vessels from the growing threat of cyber-attacks. We identified Inmarsat as that partner. Fleet Xpress offers reliable connectivity and Fleet Secure UTM ensures robust network protection our operations require.”
According to Inmarsat, Fleet Secure UTM is a comprehensive suite of network security tools designed specifically for the maritime industry.
"Managed through a single online portal and backed by a dedicated security operations centre, the solution allows Uniwise to detect and monitor threats and protect its fleet network from attacks. It also supports the company’s compliance with the International Maritime Organization’s 2021 functional cyber-security requirements for demonstrating cyber-risk management," Inmarsat said.
Gert-Jan Panken, Vice President Direct Sales, Inmarsat Maritime, commented: “Cyber-attacks are a growing concern for vessel operators worldwide. Fleet Secure UTM brings together all the tools owners need to assess and mitigate risks and establish a cyber-secure environment, while Fleet Xpress provides the reliable coverage to ensure these tools – and other business-critical applications – remain online even where demand is at its highest.”
Inmarsat’s connectivity and security package for Uniwise also includes Fleet Hotspot, which provides crew access to high-speed connectivity and is completely independent of the vessel’s bandwidth.
According to Inmarsat, this ensures uninterrupted connection to high-speed, always-on, business-critical bandwidth. With flexible charterer plans, Uniwise also benefits from tailored connectivity needs for charterers.
Further contributing to Uniwise’s cyber-resilient environment, both services are delivered via the secure, dedicated network, Inmarsat said.