It will also use fibre networks, other communication satellites, and terrestrial broadcasts, as well as elements of the present satellite network.

The satellite network, the first of its kind, will use powerful software to follow tens of thousands of boats across the globe.

The company was set up in 1979 as a not-forprofit organisation to create a satellite network for ships.

At that time, it was the largest private satellite network, allowing the corporate office to track inventory and sales and to instantly communicate to stores.

It was claimed that the channel produced more original series worldwide than any other cable or satellite network.