MTN Launches New Solution for Private Connectivity Off the Public Internet for Vessels

1 December 2025

(Image credit: MTN)

MTN, the leading global provider of best-in-class satellite and wireless solutions, announced the launch of a cutting-edge solution for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity: StarEdge Horizon, a service that provides a Layer 2 network architecture over SpaceX-Starlink for vessels and their land-based offices. StarEdge Horizon delivers more consistent performance by routing long-haul traffic off the public internet. This avoids the extra latency typically introduced by using standard VPNs and tunneling, especially when centralizing security at MTN’s servers or the customer's cloud or data center.

“StarEdge Horizon is a fundamental shift in how LEO is deployed for vessels,” said Emmanuel Cotrel, CEO at MTN. “We are moving beyond basic internet access to deliver a true Layer 2 private network solution. This is about providing corporate security, guaranteed high-speed, with a simplified network and seamless integration for redundancy. This ensures that mission-critical operations in every remote corner of the globe are always connected with fiber-level secure connectivity.”

Layer 2 is a method that allows two points to communicate as if they were on the same local network, simplifying data management. With StarEdge Horizon, this protocol provides many benefits to companies, such as:

Redefining Security and Simplified Wide Area Network (WAN) Integration: As companies have made security a top priority, StarEdge Horizon is engineered to improve cybersecurity while unifying remote corporate networks. With a true private network architecture, StarEdge Horizon’s private path lets vessels connect into the corporate WAN through MTN’s points of presence. Internet access is centralized at MTN’s servers or the customer’s data center under one policy, improving visibility and reducing operational complexity and cost.
Mission-Critical Performance and Continuity: The system also enables advanced Network Segmentation and Quality of Service (QoS) prioritization. In moments of network saturation, this capability guarantees that mission-critical data, such as control systems or security feeds, is prioritized over general internet traffic, maintaining operational continuity. In addition, StarEdge Horizon system seamlessly integrates with OneWeb, LTE, or traditional VSAT solutions, providing automatic redundancy.
Direct Cloud Peering and Static IP: In addition, Horizon provides private connectivity options to major clouds (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) where available, reducing exposure to the open internet for cloud-bound traffic. It also delivers true static IP addressing and subnet allocation, giving each vessel or device a secure and consistent network identity. This enables centralized monitoring, policy enforcement, and access control capabilities that are essential for vessel security, remote management, and application allow-listing.