GMDSS

GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress & Safety System) is an internationally recognized distress & communication safety system, utilizing radio and/or satellite systems to alert shore-based centers of emergencies at sea; eliciting shore-to-ship responses & signals nearby vessels for rescue efforts.  GMDSS systems are required by the Intl. Maritime Organization (IMO) Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS), 1974, for vessels over 300 GT with established procedures & regulatory requirements.  Maritime Safety Information (MSI) service provides navigation hazards & weather condition details.

Mackay World Service Coordinates 24/7 required annual GMDSS test/inspection services worldwide: +1 281 478 6245   service@mackaymarine.com or Complete: Service Request Form

GMDSS Systems – Now you have Choices & Enhanced Capabilities!
For decades, Inmarsat was the only approved GMDSS satellite service provider.  With technological advancements & persistence by Iridium and partners, in 2018 the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee’s Resolution MSC.451(99) recognized Iridium as an alternative GMDSS satellite service provider.

Roadmap: Iridium GMDSS Global Service (Dec. ’20): Wheelmark Certified & 2024 IMO-Approved A3/A4 Sea Areas followed by, Iridium GMDSS Certus® Service Q4 ’24:

  • Iridium GMDSS vs. Inmarsat Sat-C Comparison (Jan 2025 new IMO Regs)
  • Iridium GMDSS Certus® terminals are not only purpose-built integrated terminals with all 3 GMDSS functions (Distress Alert+ Safety Voice + MSI) plus SSAS & LRIT in 1 small terminal, but are multi-function data & voice Internet terminals. Mid-to-high performance models can serve as reliable L-band companions for Ku-/Ka-band hybrid connectivity systems.
  • Mackay is a Certified Global Iridium GMDSS Service, Terminal Provider & Installer for Lars Thrane terminals & soon to be released Intellian, Thales & Cobham Satcom Certus® terminals.
  • Mackay (2023)– is an authorized Liberian Registry Iridium GMDSS Service Provider
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Mackay provides a comprehensive line-up of both Inmarsat & Iridium GMDSS Integrated Consoles, supported by 200+ marine technicians trained to install, inspect and service these critical systems.  To discuss your GMDSS requirements, contact marinesales@mackaymarine.com call +1 281 479 1515 , Marine Service (above), OR Mackay Satellite Services: +1 919 850 3100 ; satserv@mackaycomm.com