Sternula
MMS Routing Solution

The Backbone of Your VDES Network

The Sternula MMS Routing Solution is a networking solution for VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) networks, implemented according to the Maritime Messaging Service (MMS) standard. The Sternula MMS Routing Solution enables S-100 services over your coastal and/or satellite-based VDES network.

Inside the MMS Routing Solution

MMS, as defined in RTCM Standard 13900.0, is the messaging component of the Maritime Connectivity Platform (MCP) that allows authenticated maritime stakeholders to send and receive messages in an efficient, reliable, and seamless manner. MMS solves the problem of data routing between new S-100 services and ships over radio communication systems, such as VDES.

The core of the Sternula MMS Routing Solution is an implementation of the “MMS Router” concept of the MMS standard, specific to a VDES network. An “MMS Router” handles message routing and forwarding between “Edge Routers” at the VDES base stations, VDES satellites, ship transceivers, digital services, and towards connected “MMS Routers”.

The Sternula MMS Routing Solution is a software based platform routing S-100 data between digital services and ships in your VDES network. It integrates with all major VDES equipment providers, and it offers a standardized MMS-based gateway for seamless deployment of digital S-100 services.

To optimize compatibility, the Sternula MMS Routing Solution can be integrated into a SECOM network by a SECOM-MMS Bridge. Additionally, the Sternula MMS Proxy Shore integrates the Sternula MMS Routing Solution with any VDES provider.

How Does it Work?

The Sternula MMS Routing Solution enables the transfer of digital messages containing arbitrary digital data, using VDES shore stations or VDES satellites.
This makes it well-suited for current and future S-100 chart data to enrich and modernize the display of the onboard Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS).

Core elements of the Sternula MMS Routing Solution:

MMS Router: The central component that handles intelligent message routing between other MMS Routers and MMS Edge Routers. When a connected MMS Router or Edge Router is not available, the MMS Router will store messages until it can be forwarded.

MMS Edge Router: A gateway to the external environment e.g. digital services. It ensures access to IP-based services and handles satellite and terrestrial communication.

The Sternula MMS Routing Solution allows a VDES network operator to share its infrastructure to selected digital service providers, and extend it securely with other VDES and MMS network operators. Using the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) component of MCP, all communication is authenticated to ensure the highest level of security. The Sternula MMS Routing Solution can be operated at the customer’s own premises or hosted and operated by Sternula as a service.