Investments to improve voice and data services

摘要

Although satellite communication is a growing part of the offshore industry, a large number of voice and data transmissions are done over VHF radios and other transceivers especially for joint-vessel operations. Seafarers and offshore workers can also use their mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablet computers, for communications over the terrestrial networks of the global system for mobile communications (GSM), provided they are within the 20 nautical mile range of land- or platform-based networks and when in a safe position. A number of recent product launches and technical developments in VHF equipment, antennas and GSM services provide a growing range of communication options for the offshore industry. Many have multiple functions rather than just radio communications.