Iridium Communications and SKYWAVE, an ORBCOMM company, have announced a partnership aimed at expanding Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) connectivity for heavy equipment manufacturers operating in remote and geographically dispersed environments.
The collaboration seeks to address common connectivity challenges faced by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), including limited network coverage, fragmented communications infrastructure and reduced visibility of assets operating beyond the reach of terrestrial networks. These factors can affect equipment monitoring, diagnostics, maintenance planning and the rollout of digital services.
Under the partnership, Iridium’s Short Burst Data (SBD) satellite service will be integrated into SKYWAVE’s satellite IoT terminals and connected to the company’s OGx IoT platform. The solution will enable OEMs to combine satellite, cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity within a single platform, allowing assets to remain connected as they move between network environments.
The integrated platform is intended to support a range of applications, including remote equipment monitoring, diagnostics, predictive maintenance, service support and the modernisation of existing connected equipment fleets. Although the initial focus is on heavy equipment manufacturers, the companies indicate that the technology could be applied across other industrial sectors where assets operate in remote or difficult-to-access locations.
The announcement reflects the growing use of hybrid communications networks to support digital asset management and predictive maintenance strategies, particularly in industries such as mining, construction, agriculture and energy, where equipment frequently operates beyond the coverage of conventional terrestrial communications networks.
