Embracing Progress with Maritime VHF Standards

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Credit: NYK

In response to the evolving landscape of maritime radiocommunication standards, the Maritime Safety Committee has introduced essential guidelines aimed at ensuring compatibility and compliance with updated frequencies and arrangements for VHF radiocommunication equipment. This proactive approach underscores the industry’s commitment to seamless communication and safety in maritime operations. The witherbys source.

  • Maritime Safety Committee’s new guidelines address VHF radio communication equipment compatibility with evolving ITU standards.
  • ITU Radio Regulations revisions impact VHF frequencies; equipment updates mandated post 1 January 2028.
  • Industry urged to ensure GMDSS communication reliability through timely VHF equipment updates; regulatory changes shared with stakeholders.

Addressing Compatibility Concerns

The Maritime Safety Committee’s 107th session (31 May to 9 June 2023) approves essential guidance to tackle compatibility challenges with VHF radiocommunication equipment and the updated frequencies and channelling arrangements.

Navigating Regulatory Shifts

Replacing MSC.1/Circ.1460/Rev.3, the circular emphasizes the need for updating VHF radiocommunication equipment in line with the evolving ITU Radio Regulations (RR) Appendix 18 after the first radio survey post 1 January 2028.

Global Impact of ITU Changes

ITU World Radiocommunication Conferences in 2012, 2015, and 2019 brought substantial revisions to RR Appendix 18. While GMDSS remains unaffected, this shift impacts VHF frequencies for meteorological, navigational broadcasts, port operations, and Vessel Traffic Service.

Ensuring Maritime Communication Reliability

The circular underscores the importance of ensuring GMDSS communication capability by updating VHF radiocommunication equipment by the first radio survey post 1 January 2028. Member States are urged to disseminate this information to relevant national authorities and stakeholders for timely action.

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Source-witherbys