VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) Demonstrated from Space
Swedish YMIR-1 Satellite Marks Milestone in Maritime Communication
A Swedish-built satellite has successfully demonstrated the first space-based VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) capability, marking a breakthrough in maritime communication technology. The YMIR-1 satellite, developed by AAC Clyde Space in partnership with ORBCOMM and Saab, completed live data exchanges with vessels including the Stena Germanica ferry operating between Sweden and Germany.
"YMIR-1 is a landmark achievement — not just for Sweden, but for the future of maritime operations worldwide. It proves that space-based VDES is real, it works, and it can scale."
Luis Gomes, AAC Clyde Space
The fully Swedish-built satellite entered orbit and began operations in August 2024. Between August 2024 and January 2025, YMIR-1 demonstrated bi-directional data exchange using VDES communications channels. In February 2025, the system successfully broadcast a navigation warning message split into 145 fragments from orbit to active vessels, including the Stena Germanica ferry. The signal was received both onboard ships and at Saab's facility in Linköping, Sweden.
This achievement represents the first validation that next-generation VDES technology can operate reliably from space, enabling secure global data exchange for maritime operations. The AOS mission received research grants from the Swedish Transport Administration and was developed entirely within Sweden.
"This mission demonstrates how public research grants can contribute to Sweden as a global innovation leader. VDES from orbit is a critical enabler for the future of maritime safety and digitalization which was an important factor in Trafikverket's decision to support the research initiative," said Rikard Engström of the Swedish Transport Administration.
The satellite demonstrated its ability to deliver critical maritime safety messages over great distances using minimal power of just one watt. This low-power capability is essential for scaling the technology across global maritime operations.
Space-based VDES technology addresses limitations of traditional maritime communication systems, which are restricted in scope and depend on coastal infrastructure. The new satellite-based system provides bi-directional data exchange capabilities anywhere on the planet, supporting real-time updates for safer navigation, coordinated logistics and faster emergency response.
“YMIR-1 is a landmark achievement — not just for Sweden, but for the future of maritime operations worldwide. It proves that space-based VDES is real, it works, and it can scale," said Luis Gomes, CEO, AAC Clyde Space. "We’re proud to have designed and built this satellite in Sweden, demonstrating the power of innovation when public ambition meets engineering excellence.”
The successful demonstration comes as the International Maritime Organization has officially endorsed VDES for inclusion in the Safety of Life at Sea Convention Chapter V, effective January 1, 2028. This endorsement signals a shift toward mandatory adoption of VDES technology across the global shipping industry.
VDES technology enables multiple maritime applications including smarter vessel routing, improved navigational warnings, more efficient shipping logistics, environmental monitoring and enhanced border security. The system supports real-time distribution of maritime safety information to fishing fleets and enhances Maritime Domain Awareness for agencies monitoring coastal waters.
"The success of YMIR-1 is more than a technological milestone — it's a real-world game changer. By enabling secure, global VDES connectivity, we're unlocking faster emergency response, more efficient vessel routing, and smarter logistics across oceans. ORBCOMM is proud to support this mission and help shape a future where every ship, no matter how remote, stays connected and informed in real time," said Greg Flessate, senior vice president and general manager of AIS & Maritime Data Services at ORBCOMM Inc.
The YMIR-1 mission has catalyzed further integration across the global maritime sector. AAC Clyde Space has been invited to contribute its VDES satellite technology to the United Kingdom's INFLECION Constellation, a national initiative focused on enhancing Maritime Domain Awareness. The opportunity places Swedish satellite engineering expertise at the center of one of Europe's most ambitious maritime space programs.
Saab TransponderTech delivered the VDES payload technology for the mission. "The transition to VDES represents more than just compliance; it's an opportunity to shape a more connected, safer, and smarter maritime domain – powered by TransponderTech's world-class VDES payload, delivering unmatched performance for both VDES and AIS," said Johanna Gustafsson, CEO of Saab TransponderTech.
The success has generated early-stage discussions about developing a potential VDES constellation based on the technology, protocols and performance benchmarks established by YMIR-1. Such a constellation would accelerate the pathway toward multi-satellite VDES systems in low Earth orbit.
With YMIR-1, Sweden has positioned itself as a frontrunner in maritime digital transformation. The mission demonstrates how strategic partnerships between government research funding and private industry can deliver breakthrough technologies that serve both national and global maritime communities.