Provision and installation of an advanced satellite safety communications system will help protect crew on the charity’s 21m yacht, the James Cook
24 JULY 2025, REDHILL – NSSLGlobal, a leading independent full-service project engineering, satcom and systems integrator, is again sponsoring and providing critical distress and safety satellite communications system and airtime on Ocean Youth Trust North’s offshore yacht, stv James Cook. The system will support the James Cook as it takes part in the Tall Ships Races across the North Sea.
Ocean Youth Trust North is an independent charity which, since 1999, has been inspiring young people, from disadvantaged or challenging backgrounds, to develop self-confidence, resilience and well-being, a sense of responsibility and life skills. This is achieved through Sail Training and teamwork on the charity’s ketch-rigged 21m yacht. NSSLGlobal embraces the OYT’s mission and has a long-term relationship with the Ocean Youth Trust, which is based near NSSLGlobal’s Newcastle engineering hub.
Organised by Sail Training International, the Tall Ships Races are held annually in European waters. Their purpose is inclusive, celebrating the tall ships while bringing young people together, regardless of mental or physical disability, to develop maritime and general life skills during a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
James Cook will sail from Aberdeen across the North Sea to Kristiansand in Norway and then race on to Esbjerg in Denmark in early August before 
crossing the North Sea once more, returning to her home port of North Shields.
The provision of the Iridium LT-3100S GMDSS system and airtime for James Cook follows similar support provided by NSSLGlobal to the charity for the Tall Ships Races in 2023. All vessels taking part in the races must comply with the international SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulations to ensure the safety of crews. The Iridium GMDSS service includes distress alerts and maritime safety information.
Steve Lennon, Managing Director, Ocean Youth Trust North, said: “We’re grateful to NSSLGlobal for providing satellite communications with the GMDSS equipment that is critical to keep our young crews safe during what are likely to be the most exciting event in their lives to-date. Our charity gives young people a chance to explore what they are capable of in a challenging but safe environment, so safety is non-negotiable. NSSLGlobal gives us the reassurance that our crews have the best emergency communications out there.”
Paul Rutherford, Group Service Engineer Director, NSSLGlobal, said: “At NSSLGlobal we are proud to continue our support and sponsorship for Ocean Youth Trust North, I’ve known and worked with the Ocean Youth Trust and the James Cook for many years, it is a wonderful charity giving young people a chance to experience the excitement of sailing and great team work leading to build self-esteem and confidence, in what can be a demanding environment. Safety is vital onboard any vessel and good reliable communication at sea is critical, by providing James Cook with onboard satellite communications and GMDSS distress ability alongside our 24/7 technical support gives the crew the peace of mind they need to focus on the challenge and adventure of the races.”
Photos courtesy of OYT and NSSLGlobal
Read the full press release here
Notes to Editors:
NSSLGlobal Group is a leading independent provider of project engineering, satellite communications, IT management and systems integration. With over 55 years of experience in government and maritime mobility, NSSLGlobal delivers best-in-class maritime technology and satellite solutions primarily across Geostationary and Low Earth Orbit networks, partnering with major satellite operators and wide supply chain of manufacturers.
NSSLGlobal provides assured multi-band and multi-constellation satellite solutions for commercial maritime and enterprise customers and for defence, government, responder and humanitarian organisations operating at sea, on land, and in the air. The company supports patrol vessels to oil tankers, coastguard vessels to aircraft carriers – including safety, operational, IT and welfare communications; deployed land forces ranging from embassy staff to recce teams to field headquarters, and specialist aircraft. The groups Norway-based R&D division develops market-competitive IPTV and VSAT technology, including hubs and modems for mobility and fixed applications.
Headquartered in the UK, NSSLGlobal employs 250+ staff across Germany, Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, Sweden, Poland, Singapore and the USA. The company operates with integrity and strong ethical values, holding certifications in ISO 27001, 9001, 14001, 45001, and 44001.
www.nsslglobal.com