Splash247: Intellian and Iridium roll out compact maritime safety solution

Published by Splash247

Intellian Technologies and Iridium Communications have launched the C100M global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS), extending the Iridium Certus-based safety portfolio and giving the market a compact new option for shipboard distress and safety communications.

The new terminal joins Intellian’s existing C200M and C700 systems, completing a product line that covers every Iridium Certus service tier. Intellian said this makes it the only manufacturer with a dedicated terminal across the full range, strengthening its position in maritime safety communications.

The C100M is aimed at vessels looking for a simpler retrofit path. It supports both coaxial and NMEA 2000 cabling, allowing shipowners to reuse existing legacy GMDSS antenna cable if it remains in good condition. That should cut installation time and reduce retrofit costs, especially for operators upgrading older fleets.

The system also removes the need for a separate below-deck unit. All processing is built into the bridge-mounted Safety Control Unit, while the above-deck unit and SCU have a compact footprint. The setup gives crew direct access to distress alert, safety voice, MSI, SSAS and LRIT functions from the console.

The 7-inch colour IPS touch screen is designed for clear visibility and dimming in all lighting conditions. Intellian said the interface is built to make routine calls straightforward while allowing one-touch contact with rescue coordination centres and nearby vessels in an emergency.

For operators already using C200M or C700 terminals, full SOLAS GMDSS compliance can be achieved by adding a Safety Display Terminal and handset, depending on flag administration rules.

“This compact, all-in-one terminal offers mariners a seamless, modern upgrade path from legacy safety networks,” Intellian CEO Eric Sung said. “It ensures vital, global connectivity when it matters most.”

Iridium’s Wouter Deknopper said the system combines a global distress and safety network with a practical route to a more streamlined GMDSS setup, while also providing backup connectivity alongside primary broadband systems.