Iridium Communications Inc. (Nasdaq:IRDM) has announced it is establishing a Global Service Program for its Iridium OpenPort® broadband marine satellite communication product. Launching first quarter 2011, this new program aims to provide full-service shipboard support to any Iridium OpenPort customer at more than 50 ports around the globe. Iridium is the first mobile satellite service provider to offer full-service support of this kind for any of its products.
Iridium OpenPort is the world’s only global voice and data service specifically engineered for maritime use. The service leverages Iridium’s global constellation of 66 cross-linked low-Earth orbiting (LEO) satellites to provide pole-to-pole coverage for ships at sea.
The Iridium OpenPort Global Service Program will be comprised of a robust network of experienced technicians located around the globe. As part of this initiative, Iridium has signed an agreement with Radio Holland to be the first service partner for the Iridium OpenPort Global Service Program. Radio Holland, a member of Imtech Marine, will provide portside technical support and assist Iridium with efficient global logistics, managing three regional service centers enabling timely support at all major ports worldwide. Iridium selected Radio Holland for its reputation for dedicated service and support of proven navigation and communications solutions.
“Iridium recognizes the critical nature of maritime communications, and has established this program to provide customers timely expert support,” said John Roddy, executive vice president, global operations and product development, Iridium. “Instituting the Global Service Program is an important element in our business strategy for Iridium OpenPort, and this agreement with Radio Holland is a significant step in that direction.”
“Radio Holland operates one of the most extensive service networks in the maritime industry, which will help to provide global 24×7 support for Iridium OpenPort,” said David Slager, CEO Radio Holland Group. “It ensures that ship operators can receive prompt and attentive expert service for their Iridium OpenPort systems anywhere in the world. Radio Holland’s worldwide ISO:9001 certification, granted by Lloyds, emphasizes quality at all times.”
In addition to the establishment of its worldwide network of maritime service centers, as of January 1, 2011, Iridium is backing up its promise of service excellence by providing a five-year standard warranty for all Iridium OpenPort units.
“Iridium OpenPort continues to provide an unequaled value proposition,” Roddy said. “Iridium OpenPort offers the highest quality and lowest cost of ownership of any communications solution for ship’s business and crew welfare. Ship operators have told us that they have experienced immediate savings after switching to Iridium OpenPort.”
Iridium has shipped more than 3,400 Iridium OpenPort terminals for use on a wide range of vessels, including commercial shipping fleets, government and navy vessels, fishing fleets, and personal yachts.
