GMDSS Radio Survey Blog
The monopoly of Inmarsat, which has been the only provider of satellite GMDSS services since 1999, is over. In early 2020, Iridium was successfully certified by the IMO. Thus, Iridium GMDSS has become a superior alternative to Inmarsat GMDSS; it covers all GMDSS Sea Areas from A1 to A4 and offers built-in Safety Voice Service.
Iridium is a global mobile satellite communications system that covers 100% of the Earth's surface, including both poles. It provides real-time voice and data transmitting at sea, in the air, and on the ground. The system enables connection in remote areas which are not provided with traditional land-based communications, and in emergency situations.
