Press release -
Marlink provides managed tracking service to protect Morocco Desert Challenge racers
Oslo / Paris, 6 February 2018: The organisers of the annual Morocco Desert Challenge (MDC) rally raid have signed a three-year deal with satellite services and solutions provider Marlink for the provision of tracking and race management services based on the integrated Iritrack technology platform.
Iritrack is a sophisticated satellite-based tracking and security system providing reliable two-way data and voice communications in a single device. It will be installed on nearly 200 competitor cars, trucks, buggies, motorbikes and quads for the 10th edition of the Morocco Desert Challenge, which takes place 14-22 April 2018, and will also be used in subsequent editions.
The system offers a unique combination of tracking functions and safety sensors in addition to an integrated satellite telephone. By simply pushing one button participants can contact the emergency centre of the rally directly, without first switching on a device and dialling a number, as with a traditional satellite phone.
With Iritrack, the organisers are also able to directly contact competitors even when they are racing. In addition, built-in sensors automatically inform race control when a vehicle is overturned or stationary due to an incident, supporting faster and more effective intervention. Iritrack also features manual panic buttons configurable by the user, to be used in emergency situations or for identification.
Marlink will deliver and manage the course technology infrastructure for the MDC, with supply of the unique monitoring tool,Iriviewer Software Suite, which manages the Iritrack network to provide accurate live locations and timings of all competitors in addition to deep analysis of the data received.
Completing the ‘tracking-as-a-service’ package, Marlink will also provide its team of field engineers to install and maintain the fleet of tracking devices, to assist security staff in monitoring the race at the operational HQ, in addition to delivering in-depth training for the organiser’s own technicians.
“With nearly 200 vehicles registered, the Morocco Desert Challenge has grown to be the second largest rally-raid in the world, after the Dakar. We are keen to augment our race management capabilities and believe that Marlink is well positioned to help us achieve this,” said Gert Duson, organiser of the Morocco Desert Challenge. “Iritrack is well proven in countless extreme desert rallies and we are confident that the technology and Marlink’s support will help to keep our competitors safe and secure.”
“We are delighted to have been selected to support the Morocco Desert Challenge with our advanced satellite-based tracking technology and services,” says Florian Lefèvre, VP Sales Events, Marlink. “Iritrack’s interconnection with Iriviewer for data management delivers a powerful tool for the race organisers to understand exactly what is happening during the race and act according to the best interest of the competitors battling it out in one of the world’s most extreme environments.”
Ends
www.morocco-desert-challenge.com
For further information, please contact:
Knut Natvig, Marlink
T: +47 48 030 911
E: knut.natvig@marlink.com
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About the Marlink Group
The Marlink Group is the world’s leading provider of end-to-end managed connectivity and IT solutions. The group which includes Marlink, Telemar, Palantir, Livewire Connections and OmniAccess, provides maritime and enterprise customers with an integrated offering of reliable broadband communications and IT, digital solutions, bridge electronics, and flexible service and maintenance.
The Marlink Group’s unrivalled portfolio of multi-band communication solutions covering Ku-, Ka-, C- and L-band services is augmented with mobile and terrestrial links and an industry-unique range of digital solutions. With more than 1000 employees worldwide, the Group serves enterprise and maritime customers globally, including: Shipping, Offshore, Cruise & Ferry, Yachting and Fishing, as well as Mining, Oil & Gas, Utilities, Humanitarian & NGO, Media & Events.
The Marlink Group delivers solutions with unrivalled service and support through an enhanced global footprint, including a network of sales and service locations ensuring customer proximity. Our 24/7 service desk, local presence on all continents and a network of 1250 service points staffed with highly qualified service engineers support our customers globally to operate their business in an ever smarter, safer and more profitable way.
More than 70 years’ experience, combined with our strong satellite network and hardware manufacturer partnerships, enables Marlink to bring the power of smart connectivity solutions to customers worldwide, helping them to digitalise their remote business operations wherever they are.
The Group is led by Erik Ceuppens as CEO.
