Ericsson and Net Feasa Collaborate on Smart Shipping with 5G and Agentic AI

Ericsson and Net Feasa have joined forces to introduce carrier-grade 4G and 5G connectivity paired with agentic AI capabilities to the global maritime sector. Their initial focus is on container vessels, with plans to expand to other segments of the shipping industry. The companies have already begun deploying the system worldwide, with early applications including reefer monitoring, dangerous goods handling, and onboard heat detection. This initiative is in response to the increasing need for constant connectivity at sea as shipping companies strive to enhance cargo visibility and automate their operations.

For readers of eeNews Europe, this collaboration signifies the progression of private 5G, edge intelligence, and AI-driven analytics beyond traditional settings like factories and campuses into challenging and remote industrial environments. It also underscores the growing importance of low-earth orbit satellite links and cloud-native 5G cores as fundamental components of global IoT infrastructure.

Empowering Vessels with AI-Ready Connectivity

The partnership leverages Ericsson’s Radio System portfolio and Ericsson On-Demand 5G core network in conjunction with Net Feasa’s Agentic Control Tower platform. The primary goal is to deliver secure onboard cellular connectivity while establishing an AI-ready data layer that enables real-time decision-making from ship to shore. The system is designed to accommodate thousands of connected assets per vessel while ensuring carrier-grade performance across major shipping routes.

Andres Vicente, Head of Southeast Asia, Oceania, and India at Ericsson, emphasized the importance of secure and reliable connectivity for maritime operators. He stated, “With container vessels as our starting point, the scope of what we can achieve across the entire global shipping industry is immense. Together, we are shaping the future of connected, intelligent shipping.” The system, managed from Singapore, aims to enhance cargo visibility between ports and vessels at sea.

Integration of Satellite Backhaul and Onboard Radio Systems

Net Feasa, operating as a licensed mobile network operator, deploys compact onboard radio access systems that minimize power and space requirements on vessels. These onboard networks utilize Ericsson hardware such as the Radio 4490HP, Radio 2271, Radio Processor 6355, and Power 6309 units. The cloud-based 5G core network infrastructure will be provided by Ericsson On-Demand, while low-earth orbit satellite systems will handle backhaul connectivity between ships and the core network.

Mike Fitzgerald, Chairman and Founder of Net Feasa, highlighted the significance of digitalizing the intermodal supply chain and utilizing agentic AI to gather and analyze data for operational improvements. He expressed optimism about the transformative potential of the partnership in enhancing operational efficiency, employee safety, cargo risk reduction, and compliance within the global maritime industry.

Future plans include expanding the platform to ports and other vessel types to support comprehensive SIM-managed supply chain visibility and AI-driven maritime operations. The collaboration between Ericsson and Net Feasa represents a significant step towards revolutionizing connectivity and intelligence in the maritime sector, paving the way for enhanced efficiency and safety across the industry.