Marlink, Thrane & Thrane Agreement for Sailor 900 VSAT
Marlink and Thrane & Thrane have come to an agreement for the introduction of the brand new Thrane & Thrane SAILOR 900 VSAT antenna, which is commercially released in September 2011. Marlink will add the innovative new Ku-band antenna to its VSAT portfolio and offer it to its extensive global customer network.
SAILOR 900 VSAT is a powerful, quick and easy-to-install four-axis stabilized Ku-band VSAT antenna, featuring a low-profile and high performance RF design. It can be easily integrated with all leading VSAT modem units and the sophisticated Antenna Control Unit (ACU) features multiple LAN and diagnostics ports, and Built-in Test Equipment (BITE).
During the intensive development and testing of SAILOR 900 VSAT, Thrane & Thrane’s in-house engineers were supported by Marlink’s experience as a key global maritime communication organisation. The result is a cutting-edge Ku-band antenna designed to meet the demanding requirements of shipping and offshore companies with significant operational, installation and maintenance benefits.
“As one of the leading maritime satcoms service providers, Marlink’s input during the development of the SAILOR 900 VSAT was invaluable,” comments Casper Jensen, VP Maritime Business Unit, Thrane & Thrane. “SAILOR 900 VSAT will of course be offered through our entire global partner network, but we are delighted to continue our long relationship with Marlink and co-operate closely as we gear up to bring an innovative new product to the VSAT space.”
“By including the new SAILOR 900 VSAT antenna in our product offerings we continue to bring flexibility to our customers, offering choices of hardware and products that suit their specific needs,” comments Tore Morten Olsen, CEO Marlink. “Ship owners worldwide have very different communications needs. Adding the new SAILOR 900 VSAT antenna into our VSAT portfolio further strengthens Marlink’s position as the most complete maritime communications provider in the market.”
To ensure reliability of the SAILOR 900 VSAT aboard any vessel type, Thrane & Thrane built a unique antenna testing and simulation facility at its HQ. The facility features a multi-axis hydraulic motion testing and simulation platform that uses real-life vessel motion and conditions, to test the SAILOR 900 VSAT whilst it is connected to a live satellite. This extra testing ensures that the SAILOR 900 VSAT is ready for installation aboard vessels of all sizes and types.
