China to launch communication test in Northern Sea RouteChina to launch communication test in Northern Sea Route

The study will test signal coverage from the BeiDou  Navigation Satellite System.

It is the third time of China to conduct the communication test in the Northeast Arctic Passage following the first and second tests in the years of 2016 and 2017, which will help transportation and logistics industry players understand the Northeast Passage's capabilities and provide references for ships sailing through the area.

The test team will also study the BeiDou system's signal coverage, positioning accuracy and short message communication capability in the Arctic region, in a bid to provide data support for BeiDou to join the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System, said Zhao Fenglong,director of Tianjin Communication Center of North Sea Navigation Support Center.

Compared to traditional trade routes, the Northeast Passage is closer to Western European regions, potentially saving time and cost

The North Sea Navigation Support Center, established in 2012 in Tianjin, is providing maritime guarantee services in Northern Sea area.