Stepping up to the level of Race Partner for the first time in its 13-year association with the race, the satellite communications specialist will supply hardware for the new one-design Volvo Ocean 65 boats. The announcement ensures FleetBroadband will continue to be a fixture of the world’s longest and toughest professional sporting event.

“The SAILOR hardware used during the last three editions of the Volvo Ocean Race has functioned perfectly, fully justifying the faith the competitors put in the equipment as they confront a race run in the most extreme conditions on the planet,” said Volvo Ocean Race Chief Executive Officer Knut Frostad. “This partnership is particularly gratifying as it sees Cobham SATCOM’s commitment to the race strengthened considerably through an expanded range of products and support services.”

For the 2014-15 race, Cobham SATCOM will supply satellite communications hardware, including SAILOR 500 and 250 FleetBroadband systems. The boats will also be carrying a wide range of SAILOR radio and safety equipment when they set sail from Alicante, Spain, in October 2014. Cobham SATCOM’s EXPLORER 727 vehicular BGAN terminal will also be installed on the organisers’ vehicles during stopovers, helping to report news during race starts and other events.

Cobham plc acquired Thrane & Thrane, which were an Official Race Sponsor in 2011-12, last year and established Cobham SATCOM as its satellite communications strategic business unit.