Maritime Traffic & Navigation Group

Satellite data communications company ORBCOMM has signed a next-generation satellite contract to build 18 new ORBCOMM Generation 2 (OG2) satellites that will each be equipped to detect marine Automatic Identification System (AIS) signals from space.

All OG2 satellites - there are options for up to 30 - will carry AIS payloads to receive and report transmissions from AIS-equipped maritime vessels.

ORBCOMM intends to market this AIS data to US and international coast guards and government agencies, as well as companies engaged in security or logistics businesses for tracking shipping activities or for other navigational purposes.

The satellites will be launched during 2010-11. Total contract value for the 18 spacecraft is $117 million (£60 m or E76 m).

Details from Digital Ship