SATELLITE WITH SAAB TECHNOLOGY LAUNCHED BY SPACEX

Ymir-1 is a test satellite and part of the development of the next generation of the Automatic Identification System (AIS), a system used by ships to communicate position, speed, course, and other data. AIS is a requirement for all larger ships and boats in civilian traffic. Saab TransponderTech is a leading manufacturer of AIS transponders and has built the advanced transponder onboard the satellite.

Due to the increasing number of ships at sea, AIS will be upgraded to a new technology known as VDES (VHF Data Exchange System). With VDES, capacity will significantly increase, and there will be the possibility of secure two-way communication via satellites, providing global coverage compared to today's systems which are limited to coastal communication.

In the long run, the new navigation and communication system, VDES, will link land, sea, air, and space by combining advanced transponders with modern software and satellites.

The Swedish-built satellite Ymir-1 is a tool for research and development, developed in collaboration between Saab, AAC Clyde Space, and ORBCOMM within the AOS consortium. The project will continue throughout 2024.