AAC Clyde Space enables US Coast Guard evaluation of satellite-based VDES capability

AAC Clyde Space, via its US subsidiary AAC SpaceQuest, has entered into a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the US Coast Guard Research and Development Center to evaluate its satellite-based VDES capability in an operational environment.

The work will test how satellite-based VDES supports maritime domain awareness and communication, including the exchange of safety and navigation information beyond the reach of terrestrial systems. This includes improving visibility of vessel activity and enabling communication in areas with limited or no coverage. A reference node will be established at the US Coast Guard Research and Development Center in New London, Connecticut.

The evaluation will use the Sedna-2 satellite to assess system performance, interoperability and potential operational use cases. The work will be carried out as a collaborative research effort, with each party contributing its own resources.

"Working with the US Coast Guard in an operational environment provides valuable insights into how satellite-based VDES can complement existing systems," says Luis Gomes, CEO of AAC Clyde Space. "It strengthens our ability to develop services that support maritime domain awareness and communication in real-world conditions."

"The Coast Guard Research and Development Center is looking forward to executing our CRADA with AAC SpaceQuest," says Captain Michael Chien, Commanding Officer at US Coast Guard Research and Development Center. "Our command has a long positive history of working with industry as part of the National Security research Enterprise. We see this opportunity, with AAC SpaceQuest, as a way to keep this vital partnership - between government and industry flourishing to advance our nation's goals."

The evaluation is expected to be conducted during 2026.

About VDES

The VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) is the next generation of maritime communication, enabling secure two-way data exchange between ships, satellites and shore. It builds on the existing Automatic Identification System (AIS), where AAC Clyde Space has built extensive experience through its space-based AIS data services. AAC Clyde Space has demonstrated two-way VDES communication from space with YMIR-1. The company continues to develop the technology together with partners and customers, supporting the transition towards safer oceans, smarter shipping and a greener future.