Globe Wireless, owner and operator of the Maritime Data Network, has commissioned a new terrestrial digital node in Darwin, Australia. The agreement was formalized in conjunction with ITS Communications, a division of Integrated Technical Services Pty Ltd, based in Darwin, who handle maintenance and facilitation of the node. The new node increases the Maritime Data Network to 17 nodes linked worldwide and provides additional capacity to users of the network.

The digital Maritime Data Network provides reliable and low cost communications to and from ships at sea, anywhere in the world. Globe Wireless also uses the Network to provide worldwide, 24-hour, on-line customer support, message delivery confirmations, notice of satellite messages waiting ashore, and a variety of additional value-added services to the maritime industry.

"The addition of the facility in Northern Australia enhances our ability to provide communications solutions to the maritime industry," stated Rob Lockett, Vice President - Asia for Globe Wireless. "We are continuously striving to stay ahead of market demands, and expansion of the Maritime Data Network is part of our overall strategy. During 1999, we activated a network node in South Korea significantly improving reliability and redundancy in Asia. In addition, Globe is currently testing a node in Tianjin, China, and has concluded an agreement with Telkom Malaysia to establish a node in Penang, Malaysia. Both nodes are expected be operational in early 2000 taking the total to 19 nodes."

The Network was built and enhanced by Globe Wireless over the last decade. The 17 digital nodes are all controlled from a Network Operations Center located in Northern California. As with all nodes in the Network, the Darwin facility provides services used by Globe Wireless customers on an exclusive basis.

Globe Wireless is 100% dedicated to the maritime industry. The Company offers complete communications solutions by combining service and technology to simplify maritime communications. Advanced satellite and digital radio technology is used to transmit messages and data files to and from vessels anywhere in the world. Globe Wireless currently offers worldwide sales, 24-hour customer support, and global installation and repair services. Products include the Globe Communications Center(TM), the GlobeEmail® electronic messaging system for sending and receiving all types of written communications, GlobeTransfer(TM) for automatically moving data files to and from shore, special accounts for Crew messaging, Ship's Bulletin News and the GlobeOffshore® workboat management system.