Nokia powers Maersk’s fleet with private wireless technology for cargo tracking in real time

  • Date : May 19 2025, 3:59 pm
  • Author : Logistics Monitor

Nokia has announced a significant partnership with Danish logistics giant Maersk to deploy its cutting-edge private wireless network solutions across 450 of Maersk’s vessels. This large-scale rollout forms a core part of Maersk’s Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity platform, aimed at delivering real-time cargo monitoring, greater visibility across the supply chain, and enhanced operational efficiency for customers worldwide.

Enhancing Connectivity Across a Complex Maritime Landscape

Maritime logistics demands robust, flexible connectivity due to its mobile and high-complexity environment. By adopting Nokia’s private wireless infrastructure, Maersk will overcome current onboard connectivity limitations—both on its owned and chartered ships—enabling a scalable and future-ready solution for asset tracking and positioning.

A Seamless and Scalable IoT Ecosystem at Sea

The new mobile network, powered by Nokia’s advanced radio systems, is tailored to support a wide array of IoT devices. It ensures smooth interoperability between private and public networks, allowing Maersk to reliably track cargo—whether at sea, in port, or on land. This is especially crucial for sensitive goods like fruit, where monitoring conditions such as temperature and humidity is essential.

Kjeld Dittmann, Head of Vessel & Cargo Connectivity at Maersk, said:

“Our next-generation connectivity platform enables real-time tracking and improved visibility across the supply chain. Designed for scale, it supports thousands of IoT devices, optimizing reefer tracking and vessel IoT performance.”

Driving the Future of Marine Connectivity

Tommi Uitto, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia, added:

“This major agreement with Maersk highlights Nokia’s leadership in private wireless technology. Our Radio Access solutions and MantaRay network management platform will help Maersk build a resilient, real-time, and scalable mobile network for its marine operations. We’re excited to collaborate on this transformative project.”

Technical Backbone and Deployment Timeline

The solution integrates Nokia’s small cells portfolio, including the Shikra Remote Radio Heads and Tuuli 6 compact baseband units, supported by specialized antennas. Each vessel will host a localized core network linked via satellite for backhaul connectivity. At the heart of the operation, Maersk’s central control center will use Nokia’s MantaRay NM system to provide comprehensive oversight and control of the network.

Deployment has already begun and is slated for completion by the first quarter of 2026.

Press Release: Nokia