Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s 41 RoRo Vessels Get Dual-LEO Connectivity Boost
Speedcast and Soya IT deliver hybrid satellite solutions to enhance real-time data and crew welfare across 41.
Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) fleet has completed a major digital transformation with the deployment of upgraded connectivity solutions across 41 vessels. The project, delivered by Speedcast and Soya IT Soya IT Marine Solutions, integrates hybrid satellite and terrestrial networks to enhance operational efficiency and crew welfare.
The upgrade introduces a global WAN, dual low Earth orbit (LEO) solutions from Starlink and Eutelsat OneWeb, and Iridium Certus alongside LTE-based back-up services. This combination delivers ultra-high-bandwidth connectivity, enabling secure, real-time data transmission for enterprise applications and improved streaming access for crew members during off-duty hours.
Why Hybrid Connectivity Matters for Modern Shipping: Wallenius Wilhelmsen
For Wallenius Wilhelmsen, the world’s largest Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC) operator, the upgrade is a strategic move to future-proof its fleet.
Wallenius Wilhelmsen
James Trevelyan, Executive Vice President of Global Sales at Speedcast, emphasised the significance of the project:
“A fleetwide upgrade program of this scale requires deep expertise in network management and configuration, all of which Speedcast has extensive global experience to successfully execute. This new partnership isn’t just about connectivity; it’s about making vessels digitally ready for the future, enabling secure, real-time data, strengthening operational performance, and improving the working environment onboard.”
James Trevelyan·EVP, Global Sales at Speedcast
Remote Deployment: A Logistical Triumph
One of the most notable aspects of this project is that the entire upgrade was conducted remotely. RoRo vessels, which specialise in transporting wheeled cargo such as cars and trucks, typically spend only a few hours in port before setting sail again. Instead, Speedcast’s Project Management teams collaborated with Soya IT Soya IT Marine Solutions, which provides technical and operational support for Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s fleet, to ensure seamless remote commissioning.
The primary connection relies on Starlink and OneWeb’s LEO satellites, which offer global coverage and low latency.
Thomas Bergefall, Vice President Group IS/IT at Soya Group, highlighted the collaborative effort behind the project. The benefits of the upgrade extend beyond operational efficiency.
Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s global reach is underscored by its extensive infrastructure. In addition to its fleet of 125 vessels, the company operates a global inland distribution network, 66 processing centres, and seven marine terminals. This integrated logistics ecosystem relies on robust communication systems to ensure smooth operations, from port calls to last-mile delivery. The upgraded connectivity suite will play a pivotal role in supporting these operations, enabling real-time tracking, inventory management, and customer updates.
The project also reflects the growing importance of digitalisation in the maritime sector. As shipping companies increasingly adopt advanced technologies such as IoT sensors, AI-driven analytics, and autonomous systems, reliable connectivity becomes a cornerstone of operational success. The hybrid solution deployed by Speedcast and Soya IT Soya IT Marine Solutions positions Wallenius Wilhelmsen at the forefront of this digital transformation, ensuring its fleet remains competitive in an evolving industry landscape.
Looking ahead, the partnership between Speedcast, Soya IT Soya IT Marine Solutions, and Wallenius Wilhelmsen is expected to continue evolving. The successful completion of this fleet-wide upgrade sets a precedent for future digital initiatives, with potential expansions to additional vessels or the integration of emerging technologies. For now, the focus remains on maximising the benefits of the new connectivity suite, ensuring that both enterprise operations and crew welfare continue to improve as the system matures.
For industry stakeholders, this project serves as a case study in how hybrid connectivity solutions can address the unique challenges of the maritime sector. The combination of LEO satellites, L-band back-up, and terrestrial networks offers a blueprint for other shipping companies seeking to enhance their digital capabilities. As the industry moves toward greater automation and data-driven decision-making, initiatives like this will become increasingly vital to maintaining operational efficiency and competitiveness.
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