Noble Walker –  Port Said (Suez) - Egypt- System Upgrade, Fleet Edge Deployment & VSAT/FBB System Validation

Field Dispatch - Noble Walker

 Port Said (Suez) →Egypt  | 6–8 October 2025

Project Summary

Global Satcoms successfully completed the service Modify, Add, Change (MAC) onboard Noble Walker , upgrading several components of the vessel’s existing communication infrastructure.
The intervention included removing outdated hardware, installing a new Fleet Edge (DELL), reconfiguring satellite communication paths, activating a new FBB SIM, installing a new IP phone, and validating VSAT, voice, and FBB services.
Despite significant port delays and overnight work, the project was completed within the vessel’s operational window.

Vessel: Noble Walker

Location:  Port Said (Egypt)

Service Dates: 6–8 October 2025

Service Scope :

  • Modify: Removal of Dell server & Cisco router

  • Add: Installation of Fleet Edge (DELL)

  • Add: New IP phone installation

  • Change: New FBB SIM activation & configuration

  • System verification: VSAT, FBB, GX failover & voice testing

  • Network integration & remote configuration support

Challenges & Operational Constraints

  • Engineer faced a 9-hour delay at port before boarding approval.

  • Boarding occurred at 4:30 AM, requiring work to continue through the night.

  • Boarding was performed at anchorage, requiring timing alignment with the agent.

  • Missing AC cords prevented the removal of the existing power management controller.

  • Tasks required completing the MAC modifications within a limited and unpredictable access window.

Work Completed

The engineer performed all required MAC modifications, including:

  • Inspection of current and client-provided equipment

  • Removal of Dell server and Cisco router

  • Installation and activation of the new FBB SIM card

  • Enabling remote access for configuration

  • Installation of Fleet Edge (DELL) and associated cabling

  • Installation and configuration of the new IP phone

  • Testing of VSAT (good performance)

  • Testing of FBB (working well post-SIM activation)

  • Voice testing – successful

  • GX ↔ FBB failover test – successful

  • Final documentation and captain sign-off

Summary of Activities

6 October 2025

  • 19:00 – Travel from home city to port

  • 23:00–04:30 – Awaiting boarding clearance at port (agent delay)

7 October 2025

  • 04:30 – Boarding at anchorage after agent’s green light

  • Inspect existing equipment and share details with Support

  • Remove Dell server and Cisco router

  • Install new FBB SIM card and activate

  • Configure FBB with remote support

  • Install Fleet Edge (DELL) and connect cabling

  • Install and configure new IP phone

  • Unable to remove old power controller (missing AC cord)

  • Test VSAT, FBB, voice – all successful

  • Failover between GX and FBB tested successfully

  • Prepare and sign final report

8 October 2025

  • 08:00–12:00 – Travel back home from Suez

System Status

System / Equipment      Status                      Notes
Fleet Edge (DELL) Operational Fully installed & configured
FBB Inmarsat Operational New SIM activated
IP Phone Operational Configured & working
VSAT Operational Stable connectivity
GX ↔ FBB Failover Successful Seamless redundancy
Power Controller Not Modified Missing AC cords prevented removal

Notes & Recommendations

  • Replace the missing AC cords to complete removal of the old power controller.

  • All communication systems (VSAT, FBB, voice) are functioning correctly.

  • Failover performance is stable and provides reliable redundancy.

  • Any future MAC tasks should include verification of all power accessories prior to dispatch.

Lessons Learned

  • Port and agent delays require contingency planning.
    Long waiting times significantly reduced productive hours and should be anticipated for future calls.

  • Missing hardware accessories delay full MAC execution.
    AC cord availability should be confirmed before equipment removal tasks.

  • Overnight operations require strong coordination.
    Completing work between midnight and sunrise necessitated efficient planning to avoid fatigue-related delays.

  • Failover validation is crucial in MAC upgrades.
    GX–FBB switching tests ensured the new configuration functions as intended.

  • Pre-deployment equipment verification prevents gaps.
    Reviewing client-supplied equipment and accessories beforehand prevents incomplete tasks.

Service Outcome

  • MAC service (Modify, Add, Change) successfully completed.

  • Fleet Edge installation and system upgrades delivered as planned.

  • All communication services—VSAT, FBB, voice, and failover—validated and working.

  • Report signed and acknowledged by the captain.

  • Noble Walker now benefits from updated, stable, and fully validated communication infrastructure.