Göker SİVRİKAYA
Deckhouse Communications Inc, Istanbul Liaison Office Operations Director
We offer this service not only as a connectivity solution, but also as a comprehensive management platform that focuses on operational efficiency and security. The company integrates Starlink, OneWeb and traditional VSAT solutions into a hybrid structure, guiding ships' digital transformation across a wide range of areas, from cybersecurity to fleet optimisation.
Please describe the features of Deckhouse's product and service portfolio that differentiate the company from its competitors. Could you kindly describe any special technologies, software/hardware solutions or service models that make your company stand out from the competition?
Our portfolio of products and services in the field of satellite communications for the maritime industry focuses on meeting ships' uninterrupted connectivity needs. Our core offerings include eSIM-based mobility solutions, OneWeb's low-latency LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellite network, Starlink's high-speed broadband access, KVH VSAT systems, and traditional GEO-based VSAT services such as Inmarsat. Furthermore, our portfolio includes a range of supporting services such as AAIC&PSA (Account Authority and Point of Service Activation), Cyber Security services, Inmarsat C Activation, and VOIP integrations.
We seamlessly integrate next-generation LEO-based networks such as Starlink and OneWeb with traditional GEO systems like KVH VSAT and Inmarsat through Multi-Satellite Network Integration (Hybrid Connectivity). This provides vessels with a "failover" mechanism that automatically switches based on their geographical location. For example, it utilises Starlink's high-speed (150+ Mbps download) service in the middle of the ocean, while benefiting from our other backup services in regions where Starlink is not licensed.
The Starlink customer interface solution we offer our customers is an innovative tool designed to increase operational efficiency and transparency in the field of maritime satellite communications. This platform provides our customers with real-time device telemetry information, including technical data such as terminal signal strength, satellite connection quality (SNR), latency, and error rates, which can be monitored instantly. Furthermore, usage tracking can be performed via the customer interface. Our customers are able to view the data consumption of each terminal in detail (e.g. daily/weekly GB usage) and analyse this data on a per-vessel or fleet-wide basis. This feature is critical for managing the high data demands of high-speed Starlink connections. Should customers have multiple vessels, they will be pleased to know that they will be able to monitor and manage all their Starlink terminals through a single platform. Deckhouse's Starlink customer interface is a versatile tool that provides customers with a technical monitoring function and a strategic management platform for a range of business areas, including operational efficiency, cost optimisation and cyber security.
We are committed to providing our customers with not only cutting-edge technology, but also a reliable business partnership. Our dedicated support team is on hand to respond promptly to any issues encountered by ships at sea or in port. Our remote diagnostics and maintenance services aim to resolve connection interruptions quickly, reducing the need for physical intervention. Here at [company name], we are committed to analysing data usage and keeping our customers informed at all times.
Satellite communications and remote-connected systems are becoming increasingly important in the maritime industry. Could you please clarify how Deckhouse mitigates these risks through services such as "Cybersecurity" and "Firewall Management"? What measures should customers implement to protect themselves against potential security vulnerabilities?
We select our Smart Box devices for their comprehensive range of features, ensuring optimal cyber security for our maritime clients. This compact and high-performance next-generation firewall (NGFW) is a reliable solution, particularly in challenging conditions such as at sea. Managing traffic coming through ships' satellite connections (e.g. Starlink, OneWeb or VSAT) is an effective way of protecting crew data and operational systems against ransomware, DDoS attacks and other threats. In the context of maritime operations, we utilise navigation data or IoT devices to scan traffic in real time, thereby establishing a defence layer that adheres to the standards set forth by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) regarding cybersecurity. Our Deep Packet Inspection and TLS Inspection features enable us to detect and block ransomware and hidden data leaks with up to 99% accuracy. On ships, this feature optimises data usage and increases connection continuity by filtering unnecessary traffic within the limited bandwidth of satellite connections. Thanks to SD-WAN integration, we can offer seamless failover between multiple satellite networks.
We have selected GTMaritime's GTMailPlus solution for our vessel's email services. This system is an email platform specifically designed for the challenging conditions of the maritime industry, integrated with satellite connections (such as Starlink, OneWeb or VSAT), and offers a leading strength in the sector, particularly in terms of cyber security. GTMaritime's multi-layered protection approach safeguards crew members' critical communications against ransomware, phishing attacks, and other cyber threats, even in environments with limited bandwidth and intermittent connectivity. GTMailPlus is fully compliant with the cybersecurity mandates set out by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). GTMaritime has a proven track record of successfully blocking over 80,000 cyber threats on average each month. GTMailPlus is a comprehensive email security solution that scans email traffic in real time, analysing suspicious attachments, links, and embedded code. All email communications are protected with end-to-end encryption, in accordance with TLS 1.3 protocol standards. This ensures that sensitive data transmitted via satellite (e.g. navigation reports, crew information) remains secure against unauthorised access.
With regard to the near future, which technologies do you intend to invest in? Could you please clarify whether approaches such as artificial intelligence, IoT, and automation are on the agenda, particularly in areas such as "Smart Ship Optimisation"? What kind of transformation do you foresee in the sector five years from now?
We are strategically investing in the maritime satellite communications sector, focusing on technologies that will accelerate the digital transformation of ships. Specifically, we aim to increase the operational efficiency, safety and sustainability of ships by integrating artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT) and automation approaches in areas such as "Smart Ship Optimisation" with our satellite connections (Starlink, OneWeb, VSAT). Our investment strategy is designed to align closely with the dynamic developments in the sector, thereby offering our customers a competitive edge.
We will invest in a common digital infrastructure that integrates shipboard systems (navigation, engine control, crew management) by drawing on innovative platforms for AI and IoT integration. This will enable real-time data collection (e.g. fuel consumption, route optimisation) via IoT sensors, generating predictive maintenance and energy efficiency recommendations using AI algorithms. Integration with our satellite connections will enable lag-free data analysis, even in remote locations. For instance, Starlink's high-bandwidth capabilities will facilitate seamless transfer of IoT data to coastal cloud systems. This investment is intended to reduce operational costs.
The objective of these investments is to enhance our existing portfolio (eSIM, hybrid satellite networks) and transition Deckhouse from a connectivity provider to a comprehensive maritime aaS (as-a-service) platform.
We anticipate that in five years, the maritime sector will have evolved into a fully "connected and intelligent" ecosystem. Ships will transition to autonomous operations (e.g. AI-supported route planning and fleet orchestration), significantly reducing manual interventions. The growth in the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) has led to the emergence of Smart Ship Optimisation as a standard practice. Ships will enhance their fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and adhere to the IMO's environmental targets for shipping by utilising self-learning systems (machine learning).
What are the most significant operational or logistical challenges you encounter when working with shipping companies? Please describe how factors such as port, geographical distance, weather conditions and maintenance affect your work, and how you are developing solutions to overcome these challenges.
The most significant operational and logistical challenges we encounter when working with shipping companies stem from the unique dynamics of the maritime sector. At Deckhouse Satellite Communications, we develop innovative approaches to overcome these challenges with our satellite communication solutions (Starlink, OneWeb, KVH VSAT, eSIM).
When ships are sailing in the middle of the ocean or in remote locations such as polar regions, satellite connections can be affected by coverage issues. For instance, GEO-based VSAT systems experience signal loss in polar regions, while LEO systems (Starlink, OneWeb) may not provide full coverage in some areas. This issue has the potential to impact critical systems, including crew communication and navigation data. In order to address the issue of geographical distance, we provide hybrid solutions that integrate LEO systems such as Starlink and OneWeb with GEO systems such as KVH VSAT and Inmarsat.
In addition, short-term mooring in ports, regulations in different countries (e.g. satellite equipment import restrictions) and local infrastructure deficiencies can slow down installation or maintenance processes. For instance, there may only be a few hours available in port to install a new Starlink terminal on a ship, which complicates logistical planning. In order to overcome time constraints in port operations, we use modular and plug-and-play equipment, pre-configured kits that speed up installation processes.
To resolve maintenance issues at sea, we utilise remote access and diagnostic tools. Our support team is equipped to address any technical knowledge gaps by providing real-time guidance to the crew. For instance, in the event of an antenna malfunction, we can resolve the issue on-site through remote reset or switching to a backup system.
It is important to note that satellite communications, LRIT testing and Inmarsat C activation are strictly regulated. Could you please clarify how Deckhouse ensures compliance with local and international maritime law, communications regulations, and captaincy or ship class requirements?
We deliver a range of services, including satellite communications, LRIT (Long-Range Identification and Tracking) testing, and Inmarsat C activation, in full compliance with local and international maritime law, communications regulations, and ship class requirements. Supported by our technological expertise and global partnerships, our compliance process is designed to meet the regulatory needs of shipowners and vessel operators in an efficient and streamlined manner.
The IMO's SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) Convention stipulates the mandatory implementation of LRIT systems, particularly as outlined in Chapter V/19-1. Deckhouse conducts LRIT tests in accordance with IMO technical specifications (MSC.1/Circ.1307) with our authorised global business partners. The activation and testing of Inmarsat C terminals is fully compliant with IMO A.807(19) and MSC.263(84) standards.
We adhere to a standardised process for LRIT and Inmarsat C activations. For instance, prior to LRIT tests, we conduct satellite connection tests to verify that the vessel's position data is being transmitted correctly. For Inmarsat C activations, we ensure that the terminal is correctly configured and ready for emergency signals (SSAS - Ship Security Alert System).
Our close collaboration with global satellite operators (Inmarsat, Starlink, OneWeb) and classification societies enables us to keep abreast of regulatory changes.