Remote wireless solutions provider WMS is celebrating 20 years since it installed the first commercial cellular network onboard a cruise ship.
The business has continued to innovate over the past two decades, and has now installed 2G, 3G and 4G LTE (long-term evolution) connectivity solutions on more than 200 vessels.
“WMS is the premier global provider of remote wireless solutions connecting people and business in hard-to-reach places,” says Pramod Arora, president and CEO of WMS. “We were the first in the maritime industry to deliver 3G and 4G connectivity over satellite and will also be the first with 5G connectivity this year. Approximately 80 per cent of ocean-going cruise ships use our networks and we’re growing in the ferry market too.”
WMS engineers, designs, installs, manages and monitors wireless networks for cruise and ferry operators, collaborating with 350 mobile carriers and satellite operators globally to deliver seamless maritime connectivity at sea and in port.
“We enable passengers and business to connect, communicate and transact using voice, text and data services,” says Arora. “Our network of relationships and our engineering expertise, coupled with recent improvements in satellite technology, are helping us close the gap between terrestrial and maritime connectivity by enabling us to deliver compelling product offerings and provide unparalleled mobile experiences. In 2023, we also helped our global partners generate tens of millions of dollars in revenue, demonstrating value and commitment to their business growth.”
According to Arora, WMS will continue to improve its network and products for customers and end users. “WMS continues its spirit of innovation, introducing new solutions and partnerships to advance connectivity, anywhere,” he says. “Our mission is to make remote connectivity seamless for everyone.”
WMS will showcase its solutions at Booth 4210 at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami, Florida, from 8-11 April 2024, and at Shippax 2024, which will take place from 13-15 May 2024 onboard Tallink Silja Line’s Baltic Queen.