By Maersk, one of the world’s leading shipping companies, is bringing a major technological shift to the seas by partnering with connectivity provider Onomondo. Together, they’re deploying OneWireless—a global, private LTE network designed specifically for maritime operations. This initiative marks a significant step in transforming how cargo vessels stay connected and manage data across oceans.
Traditionally, maritime communications have lagged behind modern terrestrial systems, relying on aging 2G technologies and patchy satellite connections. OneWireless changes that narrative by equipping Maersk’s fleet of 450 vessels with dedicated 4G mobile networks onboard. These ship-based systems offer uninterrupted service, even when satellite links are temporarily lost, ensuring that data flows continue regardless of the ship’s location.
Central to this advancement is Onomondo’s software-defined mobile core, which has been installed directly on each vessel. This technology allows ships to operate as independent network hubs, capable of supporting modern communication standards such as NB-IoT, LTE-M, and standard LTE. As a result, ships can support a wide range of IoT applications in real-time—from tracking cargo conditions to optimizing onboard systems.
What sets this network apart is its ability to maintain seamless transitions between onboard LTE and public mobile networks at ports. Devices onboard can switch effortlessly between the ship’s private network and land-based infrastructure without manual intervention. The integration is smooth, much like a smartphone shifting from Wi-Fi to mobile data—but on a much larger and more complex scale.
OneWireless also supports SIM cards from other network operators, enabling third-party IoT devices to connect with ease. This flexibility opens up new possibilities for integrating various systems on board, from refrigerated container monitors to environmental sensors, all under one unified communication platform.
The benefits of this initiative are far-reaching:
- Ships function as autonomous 4G network zones, ensuring consistent IoT performance.
- Devices move freely between sea and land networks, maintaining connectivity without interruption.
- The network supports external SIMs, simplifying integration with global IoT devices.
- Enhanced security features inherent in 4G add layers of protection to data transmission.
Maersk’s adoption of this next-gen infrastructure brings tangible value to its operations. It allows for continuous monitoring of sensitive cargo, sharper visibility into the supply chain, and the ability to respond quickly to operational changes. Upgrading from 2G to 4G represents not just improved speed, but a complete transformation in how data is collected, shared, and acted upon at sea.
According to Maersk’s Head of Vessel & Cargo Connectivity, Kjeld Dittmann, the platform will allow for real-time cargo monitoring and better supply chain transparency, while also supporting thousands of connected devices across the fleet. This foundation paves the way for future expansions into 5G and beyond.
The deployment of OneWireless is supported by a coalition of technology partners, including Nokia and ZEDEDA, with installation scheduled to continue through 2026. Rollouts are coordinated with port stops to avoid impacting shipping operations.
With OneWireless as the digital backbone, Maersk is setting a new benchmark for global shipping. It signals a broader shift within the maritime industry—where vessels are no longer isolated units on the ocean but integrated, intelligent components of a connected global network.