Maritime safety regulations have evolved rapidly over the past decade, with new IMO and EU directives pushing for modern, always-on communication capabilities on board.
In support of the demand and prioritization of global maritime safety, Thales Defense & Security, Inc. is excited to introduce WaveLINK, a next-generation GMDSS solution that’s powered by Iridium Certus and developed in collaboration with North Invent, who added the design and processing for the WaveLINK panel. According to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) remains the backbone of global search-and-rescue coordination, ensuring that no ship in distress can disappear without a trace.
The introduction of WaveLINK at the IEC Telecom stand during Europort 2025 marks a milestone in maritime communications, combining full GMDSS functionality with a flexible design that complements existing Certus terminals already in service across the global fleet. Going beyond mandatory GMDSS features, including distress alerting, safety voice and maritime safety information (MSI), long-range identification and tracking (LRIT), and the ship security alert system (SSAS), WaveLINK provides truly global coverage via the global Iridium Certus network.
Additionally, the system is equipped with OpenBridge front-end software, ensuring intuitive operation and seamless integration for vessel owners already familiar with the platform.
Unlike conventional safety terminals that remain idle until an emergency occurs, WaveLINK actively supports daily operations while remaining ready for critical response. It goes beyond core GMDSS functions by enabling a range of industry-specific applications, such as fish-catch reporting and search-and-rescue coordination, already in the pipeline for the near future, as well as an unlimited range of tailor-made integrations upon request.
In addition to its expanded capabilities, WaveLINK removes key barriers to adoption. The terminal is priced competitively against traditional GMDSS equipment, significantly increasing value for fleet owners.
Furthermore, owners of the popular VesseLINK solution can expect a seamless upgrade as the simple addition of a WaveLINK panel will transform existing VesseLINK systems into a fully GMDSS-certified terminal without additional satellite hardware.
Our goal was to reimagine GMDSS equipment as more than an emergency lifeline,” said Steve Noel, VP Satcom Solutions of Thales Defense & Security, Inc.. “WaveLINK is scalable by design and ready to host digital services across Iridium’s reliable network. By combining safety, connectivity, and intelligence within one platform, we are transforming the mostly dormant GMDSS terminal into a true co-pilot at sea.”
Alf Stian Mauritz, Group Chief Strategy Officer of IEC Telecom Group, said, “The addition of WaveLINK aligns perfectly with our service-driven portfolio. IEC Telecom specializes in comprehensive communication systems designed to go beyond core functionality and bring tangible value on board. As a long-standing partner of Thales, we are excited to be the first service provider to unveil this new solution to the market.”