Delivering mission-critical communications at sea

A 5G mobile phone served as the primary system, taking advantage of Norway's extensive coastal coverage. VHF radio was selected as the alternate system, while QinetiQ's Bracer Secure Iridium Push-to-Talk (PTT) and Position Reporting capability provided both contingency and emergency communications.

As conditions deteriorated and the vessel moved beyond cellular coverage, the team relied on Bracer to maintain contact with their support team and coordinate a safe route to shelter. The system provided reliable beyond-line-of-sight voice services and position reporting when their primary and alternate systems could no longer be relied upon. Because communications took place within secure talkgroups, rather than over open VHF channels, conversations remained private and controlled.

Although designed to support command and control for organisations operating across wide geographic areas, this expedition demonstrated how Bracer can provide a vital lifeline whenever conventional systems fail.

Communications without boundaries

Maritime organisations routinely operate beyond the reach of terrestrial communications infrastructure. Whether supporting offshore energy operations, maritime security missions, coastguard services, humanitarian response or defence activities, reliable connectivity are essential to safety and mission success.

Bracer addresses this challenge through the Iridium satellite network, providing truly global coverage across oceans, coastal waters and remote operating environments. Unlike solutions that depend on multiple network providers or roaming agreements, Bracer offers a consistent communications experience regardless of location.

With an intuitive push-to-talk interface, users can instantly connect with teams, vessels and command centres when it matters most.

Built for the Maritime environment

Operations at sea present unique challenges including saltwater exposure, extreme weather, vessel movement and prolonged deployments.

Bracer has been specifically engineered for these demanding conditions. Housed in a lightweight, rugged IP66/IP67-rated casing, the system has been proven to withstand harsh maritime environments and the effects of prolonged saltwater exposure.

Whether deployed on patrol vessels, commercial shipping or offshore platforms, Bracer delivers dependable performance where conventional communications systems may struggle.

Clear, reliable voice communications

Voice remains the fastest and most effective way to exchange operational information.

Bracer delivers clear voice services even in challenging environments where engine noise, adverse weather and long distances can degrade communications quality. Its simple push-to-talk functionality enables users to communicate efficiently without complex equipment or extensive training requirements.

The capability supports a wide range of maritime activities, including:

• Maritime security operations
• Coastguard and search-and-rescue missions
• Counter-piracy operations
• Fisheries protection
• Humanitarian assistance and disaster response
• Marine scientific research

Real-time situational awareness

Modern maritime operations require more than voice communications. Commanders and decision-makers also need visibility of personnel and assets.

Bracer provides exceptionally low-latency position reporting, enabling operators to maintain an accurate and up-to-date operational picture. Real-time tracking of vessels, teams and remote assets improves situational awareness and supports faster, more informed decision-making.

Position information can be displayed directly on Windows and Android devices without requiring connectivity to a backend server. Location data is distributed through Iridium talkgroups and overlaid directly onto mapping applications, eliminating dependence on local internet or wide-area network infrastructure.

Secure by Design

For defence, government, critical national infrastructure and security-focused organisations, secure communications are essential.

Security is built into Bracer's design, helping organisations protect sensitive operational information while maintaining effective communications. The capability is certified to NIST FIPS 140-2 Level 3 standards, providing independently verified assurance that communications and tracking data remain protected.

As maritime operations become increasingly distributed and complex, organisations need communications systems that remain effective regardless of location or conditions.

Bracer's Secure Iridium Satellite Push-to-Talk and Position Reporting capability provides resilient communications, secure collaboration and real-time situational awareness across both open-ocean and seafront environments.

The Norway expedition provided a practical demonstration of Bracer's value. When primary and alternate systems became unavailable, Bracer continued to provide the communications link needed to support operational safety and mission success.

Whether operating offshore, in congested coastal regions or in areas beyond the reach of conventional networks, Bracer enables teams to stay connected, informed and in control when it matters most.

Get in touch to find out more about how Bracer could help you.