Inmarsat Maritime and SK Telink have expanded their long-standing strategic partnership to accelerate the deployment of NexusWave multi-network connectivity across South Korea’s shipping sector. Covering major shipowners such as HMM and Sinokor, the agreement targets container ships, car carriers, and VLCCs to enhance operational efficiency, cybersecurity, vessel optimization, and seafarer welfare. By leveraging deep regional regulatory expertise and upcoming ViaSat-3 high-capacity satellite integration, the alliance provides South Korean operators with a resilient foundation for data-driven fleet management across busy global trade routes.
Seoul, South Korea | August 24, 2026 – Inmarsat Maritime (a Viasat company) and South Korean telecommunications leader SK Telink have signed a landmark agreement to accelerate maritime digitalization and advance next-generation connectivity across South Korea’s shipping industry.
The pact strengthens a strategic relationship between the two companies dating back to 2007. It is designed to scale the implementation of NexusWave, Inmarsat’s fully managed, bonded multi-network service, among major South Korean shipowners, including key operators like HMM and Sinokor.
Driving Fleet Efficiency and Advanced Digital Capabilities
The collaboration addresses a growing demand among South Korean shipowners for robust, high-performance connectivity capable of managing increasingly data-driven vessel operations. Under the agreement, NexusWave will be implemented across a broad range of core commercial vessel classes, including:
- Car Carriers
- Container Ships
- Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs)
By blending Inmarsat Maritime’s global satellite network, deep maritime domain expertise, and fully managed service model with SK Telink’s strong local market presence and customer relations, the partnership provides a streamlined framework to help operators navigate a complex operating environment.
NexusWave provides the digital backbone necessary for modern fleets by supporting:
- Cloud-based business applications and real-time data integration
- Remote technical support and remote IT management
- Robust cybersecurity strategies and enterprise-grade network segregation
- Vessel performance optimization and enhanced seafarer welfare and crew connectivity
Navigating Regional Complexities and Upcoming Capacity Boosts
For South Korean operators trading extensively across busy Asian shipping lanes, NexusWave serves as a vital tool to manage intricate regional regulatory frameworks. The service leverages Inmarsat Maritime’s deep regulatory insight and long-standing market relationships. Its core technical architecture intelligently manages the availability of individual network underlays according to strict local mandates while preserving uninterrupted connectivity within the unified bonded service.
Furthermore, the anticipated integration of the ViaSat-3 service into the NexusWave ecosystem is expected to substantially enhance regional bandwidth, delivering superior performance, flexibility, and high-capacity coverage across some of the world’s most congested maritime corridors.
Executive Perspectives
Highlighting the importance of resilient communication foundations for modern merchant fleets, Shin-Yong Lee, Head of Satellite Business Division at SK Telink, stated “Connectivity has become fundamental to the safe, efficient and competitive operation of a modern fleet. Shipping companies need a resilient digital platform that can support operational applications, cybersecurity requirements and the expectations of today’s seafarers. NexusWave is designed to support these needs, and we are excited to bring its advanced capabilities to more South Korean operators helping them unlock greater value from connected, data-driven operations.”
Echoing these comments on South Korea’s leadership in maritime innovation, Justin Yi, Regional Director APAC at Inmarsat Maritime, noted “South Korea continues to set the pace for innovation in global shipping, with operators embracing technologies that enhance performance, resilience and competitiveness. This agreement reflects both the strength of our long-standing relationship with SK telink and growing momentum behind the digitalisation of maritime operations. Together, we are helping create the connectivity foundations that will enable South Korean shipowners to realise the full benefits of a connected and increasingly data-driven future.”
Industry Context
This expansion in South Korea builds on broader global momentum for NexusWave, following recent high-profile fleetwide adoptions by major global container lines such as Hapag-Lloyd and Evergreen, alongside stringent type approvals like its ClassNK cyber security certification adhering to IACS UR E27 standards.
About Inmarsat Maritime
Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat company, continues to power the digitalization of the maritime industry. With over 40 years of experience, Inmarsat Maritime offers reliable and innovative solutions that enable shipowners and operators to stay connected, navigate safely, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure crew welfare.
Viasat in Brief
Viasat is a global communications company that believes everyone and everything in the world can be connected. With offices in 24 countries worldwide, its mission shapes how consumers, businesses, governments, and militaries communicate and connect. Viasat is developing the ultimate global communications network to power high-quality, reliable, secure, affordable, and fast connections to positively impact people’s lives anywhere they are, on the ground, in the air, or at sea, while building a sustainable future in space. In May 2023, Viasat completed its acquisition of Inmarsat, combining the teams, technologies, and resources of both companies to create a new global communications partner.
Source: Inmarsat Maritime