NSSLGlobal is providing essential satellite communications to triple-amputee army veteran Craig Wood on a world-first epic 80-day solo sail of over 6,000 nautical miles from La Paz in Mexico to Yokohama in Japan.
NSSLGlobal, a leading independent full-service project engineering, satcom and systems integrator, will provide Craig with a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) terminal for data services and an Iridium Extreme 9575 satphone for critical voice connectivity, enabling Craig to safely navigate and communicate from his custom-built 41-foot aluminum catamaran. The LEO terminal has been specially “marinised” by NSSLGlobal and allows for global coverage, hi-throughput, low latency high speed internet access across the seas. This will enable Craig to get weather intelligence, paramount to his safety and security as the weather is predicted to present the biggest challenge to completing the route. This together with the satphone will provide the critical communications for his emotional well-being, allowing him to keep in touch with his wife and young children during the almost-three-month expedition. During the sail, live video updates and regular vlogs will also be broadcast via the LEO terminal on Craig’s YouTube channel, with the potential for live engagements with school children to share his remarkable journey. The coverage will chart both his day-to-day adventures as well as breaking down barriers for people who don’t know how to sail.
Craig lost both legs and his left hand at the age of 18, in an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast aged 18 and just three months into his first operational tour in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Following extensive rehabilitation over five years, and having narrowly missed out on qualifying to represent Great Britain at the Rio Paralympics, in 2016 he bought a boat and began sailing the world.
Set to begin in early March 2025, Craig ’s 6,000-mile sailing adventure is part of his broader mission to change the perception of disability, raise money for Blesma (the British limbless ex-servicemen’s association) and Turn 2 Starboard, which provides sailing opportunities for veterans; the charities that have helped him most during the difficult times, and spread the message of sailing as a tool to transform lives affected by trauma.
Reflecting on the upcoming challenge, Craig shared: “My mission has always been to show what’s possible when we push beyond our limits, and this expedition is a testament to that. I’m incredibly grateful for NSSLGlobal’s support - their technology will keep me safe and informed as I navigate unpredictable waters, and being able to connect with my family will be a constant reminder of why I’m taking on this challenge”.
Neil Fraser, Director for Defence and Space, NSSLGlobal, said: “We are immensely proud to sponsor Craig as he undertakes this record-breaking endeavour. This is an intrepid journey, made more difficult by potential adverse weather conditions. NSSLGlobal continues to sponsor and support veterans who are overcoming challenges and Craig epitomizes these values and demonstrates that disability is not a barrier and aims to inspire others especially young people. We look forward to tracking Craig’s progress along the way and wish him the very best of luck.”
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