Maritime satellite requirements and utilization

The basic purpose of this paper is to identify the potential requirements for maritime satellite communication and position fixing as it relates to both present and future operational systems (e.g., MARISAT, INMARSAT, etc.). Particular emphasis is given to the need for position fixing and ship terminal equipment utilization in national waters, as well as other major aspects. Present MARISAT operation and industry evaluation activities are briefly discussed, highlighting a few major programs and some of the potential benefit area thus far generally identified by the users of MARISAT. A comparison is made between satellite communication and the existing MF/HF system, including direct-printing radio telegraph (marine radio telex). From various standpoints, it appears that maritime satellite systems are more desirable than conventional (nontelex) marine telegraph/telephone. In addition, the improved performance, capability, and potential of satellites could outweigh the slightly lower annual traffic and equipment cost for HF marine telex.