Globalsat, VLI & Viasat Upgrade Railway with Hybrid Tech
Globalsat Brasil, a local arm of the international satellite telecoms leader Globalsat Group, is spearheading a major digital transformation of railway operations in Brazil in collaboration with Viasat, Inc. By design, the ten-year initiative will overhaul VLI Logística’s communications infrastructure, enabling real-time connectivity across its expansive rail network.
VLI Logística, one of Brazil’s foremost logistics operators, manages an integrated railways, ports and terminals network.
It has partnered with Globalsat to implement a hybrid satellite and LTE communications system to equip its locomotives with highly reliable, fast and resilient connectivity.
The tailored solution will enhance control and efficiency across over 1,800 kilometres of VLI’s network, spanning the states of São Paulo, Goiás and Minas Gerais.
Enhancing control with real-time communications
The integrated connectivity solution will enable VLI to modernise its fleet monitoring and management.
The platform represents a significant leap in operational capability by supporting the current onboard systems while paving the way for technologies like Positive Train Control (PTC) and advanced signalling.
PTC, for instance, automatically controls train speeds and movements to ensure safety. The improved communication platform will allow control teams to interact directly with locomotive operators in real-time. The system reduces response times in emergencies or operational disruptions from several minutes to mere seconds.
“Railways increasingly rely on advanced telecommunications systems to control and monitor locomotives.
“For train licensing, telecommunications systems are crucial as they ensure compliance with regulatory and safety standards.”
A custom-built solution for a critical network
The Globalsat Group’s solution was developed specifically for VLI’s operational environment.
The hybrid satellite/LTE service provides seamless coverage in areas with poor or absent LTE signals.
It allows for IP-based data communications that support the modernisation and standardisation of locomotive licensing processes—an essential element in enabling VLI trains to operate across different railway lines in Brazil.
Flávio Franklin, General Director of Globalsat Brasil, remarked: “Fast communication is crucial as it provides greater control over railway network operations. It’s inspiring to see VLI Logística leading such an innovative initiative.
This kind of infrastructure will support advanced applications such as automation, real-time mobile platforms, and assisted operations, all of which drive greater value across supply chains.”
International expertise supports Brazilian infrastructure
The project is currently being commissioned and represents a notable collaboration between national and international technology leaders. Viasat, known for delivering high-capacity satellite broadband, plays a key role in ensuring the system’s robustness and scalability.
Andy Kessler, Vice President at Viasat Enterprise, commented: “Logistics companies like VLI are vital for many industries.
"Fast and efficient satellite communications can provide command centre visibility for companies like VLI and help the entire network operate much more efficiently – crucial in a sector where time is money.
"Additionally, reliable connectivity can help employees stay connected and more importantly, safe: wherever they operate.”
The communications overhaul is a foundational step in VLI Logística’s broader digital strategy. Beyond operational benefits, the integration of cutting-edge connectivity technologies will enable the future deployment of automated systems and data-driven decision-making across Brazil’s rail logistics sector.
By combining international technology leadership with deep regional expertise, Globalsat, Viasat and VLI are setting a new benchmark in the use of communications infrastructure to enhance operational performance and safety in large-scale logistics environments.
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