Maritime warning system

The Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ) is responsible for managing maritime search and rescue operations across one of the world’s largest search and rescue zones. A key part of this work involves broadcasting Maritime Safety Information (MSI) through two separate satellite networks: Inmarsat and Iridium.

Previously, sending a single message meant entering it twice—once into each of the two outdated, slow, and inconsistent web interfaces provided by the satellite platforms. This manual process was not only time-consuming but also prone to errors that could affect critical safety communications.

Our task was to design a new web interface that would allow RCCNZ operators to create a single message and broadcast it simultaneously across both satellite networks. The goal was to reduce friction, speed up the process, and minimise the risk of errors, all while working within the constraints of legacy satellite APIs. We worked closely with the RCCNZ team to understand the limitations of the satellite systems, the realities of maritime communications and build upon the existing manual processes that had been formed.

The final solution is a focused, user-friendly platform that automates where it makes sense, but also gives users control to manage the quirks of both satellite systems. Designed with reliability and speed in mind, the new interface supports the dynamic, high-stakes nature of maritime safety communications.