RS takes part in the annual meeting of the Joint IMO/ITU Experts Group
Russian Maritime Experts Join IMO-ITU Group to Improve Ship Communication Systems
Experts from the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS) recently attended the 20th meeting of the joint group formed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). As part of the Russian delegation, they worked with other global experts to improve maritime radiocommunication tools, focusing on safer and more efficient communication between ships and shore stations.
The IMO and ITU are both United Nations agencies that handle critical communication needs for ships. Their joint efforts aim to solve current challenges in maritime radio services and enhance the tools used by vessels and maritime authorities worldwide.
Key Goals of the IMO-ITU Meeting
This meeting brought together experts to improve maritime communication technologies. The outcomes will be further discussed at the 12th session of the IMO’s Navigation, Communication, and Search and Rescue (NCSR) committee in May 2025. Some key areas of focus were:
- Updates to Automatic Identification Systems (AIS):
Experts drafted changes to the ITU’s AIS system (Recommendation ITU-R M.1371-5) to expand the list of ship and watercraft types. This update will make it easier to identify different vessels using AIS technology. - Fixing AIS Signal Interference Issues:
The group launched a new project to solve problems caused by interference from Very High Frequency (VHF) signals. These signal disruptions can create gaps in critical AIS data, affecting ship tracking and communication. - Improving Maritime Safety Information (MSI):
New amendments were proposed to the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention, focusing on the need for countries to share safety and rescue information through recognized satellite systems, making maritime safety alerts more accessible.
- Digital Navigation Systems (NAVDAT):
The experts also worked on developing NAVDAT, a new digital data system for safer ship navigation, and started creating a manual for its use. - Planning for Future Radio Communication Needs:
The group began preparing for the World Radiocommunication Conference, which will take place in 2027. Their goal is to align maritime communication strategies for future challenges.
About Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS)
Founded in 1913, RS is a global leader in the maritime industry. It focuses on improving the safety and environmental performance of ships and offshore facilities. RS provides various services such as reviewing technical documents, inspecting ships under construction, and certifying vessels for compliance with international laws and standards.
RS also helps companies meet international safety regulations by certifying management systems. Beyond classification services, the organization offers engineering consultations, marine warranty surveys, and technical document development for ships.
RS has expanded its expertise to cover:
- Surveying all container types, including tank containers and offshore containers.
- Ensuring that packaging for hazardous goods meets safety standards.
- Providing declaration and certification services for dangerous cargo and bulk goods.
Why This Meeting Matters for the Future
The collaboration between IMO and ITU shows the importance of strong communication systems in maritime operations. From safety alerts to tracking vessels, reliable communication is essential for safe navigation at sea. RS’s involvement highlights its commitment to helping the global maritime industry address new challenges and improve safety standards.
The outcomes of this meeting will help ensure smoother maritime communication systems, with fewer signal problems and better information sharing. This, in turn, will improve the safety of ships and seafarers around the world.
