AST Networks, a global provider of satellite communication and marine electronics, recently participated in a prestigious Defence Industry Exhibition and Reception held in the Netherlands, hosted by Her Excellency Joanna Roper CMG, British Ambassador to the Netherlands, and Commander James Wallington-Smith, commanding officer of HMS Sutherland. This high-profile event brought together leading British defence companies to engage with key European stakeholders in the defence maritime sectors.
Held aboard HMS Sutherland, a Royal Navy Type 23 frigate, the event served as an important diplomatic and commercial platform for strengthening international collaboration, innovation exchange, and sovereign defence capabilities. For AST Networks, the exhibition provided an unparalleled opportunity to engage with military and governmental representatives from the Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, the United Kingdom, and beyond.
Showcasing Satellite Communications and Marine Electronics Excellence
AST Networks presented a suite of cutting-edge technologies, designed to enhance mission-critical communication in the most demanding environments. Some of the featured solutions included:
- SAL SPU-200: A compact and rugged anti jamming and spoofing comms unit designed for maritime operations.
- ICOM IC-SAT100 PTT Radios: Reliable, one-to-many satellite Push to Talk radios enabling real-time voice communication across vast distances.
- Encrypted Thuraya XT-PRO Radios: Secure and versatile satellite handsets designed for global deployment.
- Iridium 9575 PTT Radios: Combining satellite voice with Push to Talk capabilities on the robust and reliable Iridium network.
Whilst all the products generated strong interest, the SAL SPU-200 was especially well received, an apt highlight given the navel setting and the growing demand for agile, deployable safety systems in maritime operations.
Strengthening International Partnerships and Defence Readiness
The event enabled businesses to connect with a broad range of stakeholders, including defence attachés, navel commanders, Ministry of Defence officials, and government technology advisors. These interactions have already led to ongoing conversations and invitations for AST Networks to deliver further product demonstrations and in-country engagements.
Empowering Defence Through Global Communication and Support
AST Networks specialises in delivering resilient, flexible, and scalable satellite communications and marine electronics systems tailored to meet the critical needs of defence, maritime, and emergency services sectors. Whether operating in remote locations, at sea, or across contested communication environments. AST's solutions ensure users remain connected, informed, and mission ready. With decades of experience and a proven track record across global defence projects, AST Networks offers:
- Fully managed communication systems for land and sea operations.
- Custom-built integration of satellite and hybrid communication systems with existing infrastructure.
- Remote monitoring, diagnostics, and control through their advanced INTEGRA platform.
- Compliance with the highest security and encryption services, supporting government and defence requirements.
- 24/7 Technical support across the globe.
AST Networks distinguish themselves through their proven and unmatched commitment to customer support. With 24/7 – 365 days a year – technical support, real-time troubleshooting, and rapid response, AST Networks ensure operational continuity – no matter the hour, the mission, or the location.
“Our participation in this event demonstrates not only the strength of British innovation in the defence sector, but also our unwavering dedication to supporting the evolving requirements of allied forces,” said Vic Litaunieks, Government Liaison Officer with AST Networks. “We're proud to deliver solutions that help our partners stay connected, secure, and safe, whether at sea, in the field, or at base.”
Looking Ahead
As AST continues to expand their global footprint, events such as this reinforce the importance of international collaboration, knowledge sharing, and trusted partnerships in an increasingly complex defence environment. The team looks forward to building on the relationships established during the event and continuing to support the Netherlands and wider European defence community in advancing secure communications and mission resilience.
About AST Networks
AST Networks is a global leader in satellite communications, safety services, and intelligent maritime electronics solutions. From commercial shipping and offshore energy to defence and polar research, AST Networks delivers cutting-edge systems that keep vessels connected, secure, and compliant — wherever they are in the world.