Cobham SATCOM named race partner for Volvo Ocean Race

Cobham SATCOM has been named the Volvo Ocean Race’s satellite and radio communications equipment partner for 2014-15.

Stepping up to the level of race partner for the first time in its 13-year association with the race, the satellite communications specialist will supply hardware for the new one-design Volvo Ocean 65 boats.

The announcement ensures the latest generations of SAILOR FleetBroadband satellite equipment relied upon by race teams in recent editions will continue to be a fixture of the world’s longest and toughest professional sporting event when the boats line up in Alicante in October 2014.

Knut Frostad, CEO of Volvo Ocean Race said, “The SAILOR hardware used during the last three editions of the Volvo Ocean Race has functioned perfectly, fully justifying the faith the competitors put in the equipment as they confront a race run in the most extreme conditions on the planet. This partnership is particularly gratifying as it sees Cobham SATCOM’s commitment to the race strengthened considerably through an expanded range of products and support services.”

For the 2014-15 race, Cobham SATCOM will supply the satellite communications hardware for the Volvo Ocean 65s, including the new generation SAILOR 500 and 250 FleetBroadband systems. Radio and safety equipment is also an important aspect of the partnership, with Cobham SATCOM supplying SAILOR 6150 mini-C Distress, SAILOR VHF & UHF Portable radios and more.

Walther Thygesen, vice president of Cobham SATCOM, said: “The Volvo Ocean Race represents the ultimate challenge for our equipment, so we are especially pleased to be increasing our commitment in our new role as Race Partner. This race showcases SAILOR products in very tough and testing conditions, which can only enhance their credentials as the most reliable communications equipment for all maritime applications.”

The 12th edition of the Volvo Ocean Race, starting in Alicante on 4^thOctober 2014, will be the first to be raced with a new fleet of one-design Volvo Ocean 65 boats, designed by Farr Yacht Design in the United States and built by a consortium of boatyards in Italy, France, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

Finishing in Gothenburg, Sweden, the route will take in 10 cities in nine countries – Spain, Brazil, United Arab Emirates, China, New Zealand, United States, Portugal, France and Sweden – and will require the teams to cover 39,895 nautical miles.

For more details about the Volvo Ocean Race, please visit www.volvooceanrace.com.

For more details on Cobham SATCOM visit www.cobham.com.