The IMO Navigation, Communications and Search and Rescue Sub-Committee (NCSR 12) took place on 13 – 22 May 2025 at the IMO in London.
Loyd’s Register has issued a report outlining the key outcomes of the Committee, where all matters related to navigation and communication, as well as search and rescue and the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System were discussed.
Summary of significant outcomes:
- NCSR finalised the draft amendments to SOLAS chapter V and related instruments to support the introduction of the VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) on voluntary basis. These include performance standards, operational guidelines, and provisions allowing VDES to replace AIS. The draft documents will be submitted to MSC 110 for approval and are expected to be adopted at MSC 111 in May 2026, with entry into force on 1 January 2028.
- NCSR finalised draft guidelines on the carriage and use of an Electronic Nautical Publications (ENPs) system on board to support uniform implementation of SOLAS regulations V/19.2.1.4,V/19.2.1.5 and V/27. The guidelines will be submitted to MSC 111 for approval in May 2026, and should be effective immediately once approved.
- NCSR finalised the draft MSC circular on guidelines for software maintenance of shipboard navigation and communication systems, focusing on cybersecurity, remote servicing, and standardised maintenance processes. The draft guidelines are expected to be submitted for approval at MSC 111 (expected May 2026) and should be effective immediately once approved.
- NCSR continued work on the draft NAVDAT manual and roadmap for implementing the digital navigational data system, building on resolutions adopted at MSC 109. Due to time constraints, finalisation was deferred to NCSR 13 (expected June 2026), with approval expected at MSC 112 (expected December 2026).
Navigation
Routeing measures and ship reporting systems
The safety of shipping and the cleanliness of oceans are enhanced by routing measures and ship reporting systems. Ship reporting systems further improve safety by providing real-time information on ship movements. SOLAS Chapter V designates the IMO as the sole international authority for establishing these systems, ensuring safe and efficient maritime navigation.
NCSR agreed on the following:
- A draft MSC resolution on amendments to an existing mandatory ship reporting system in the Adriatic Sea (ADRIREP)
- A draft SN circular on area to be avoided off the coast of Reunion, in the Mascarene Basin.
- Draft amendments to Resolution MSC.314(88) as a new annex for In the Sound Between Denmark and Sweden (SOUNDREP) and draft amendments to MSC.332(90) in the existing annex for In the Storebælt (Great Belt) Traffic Area (BELREP) ship reporting systems.
The finalised drafts are expected to be adopted at MSC 111 in May 2026, with implementation expected six months later.The finalised drafts are expected to be adopted at MSC 111 in May 2026, with implementation expected six months later.
Information was submitted regarding the change of Chart Datum and value of minimum depth of 17.60 m in the deep-water route within the South Åland Sea traffic separation scheme. A proposal to issue an addendum 3 to SN.1/Circ.272 was approved by NCSR.
Development of amendments to SOLAS chapters IV and V and performance standards and guidelines to introduce VHF data exchange system (VDES)
The Very High Frequency (VHF) Data Exchange System (VDES) integrates the functions of terrestrial and satellite VHF data exchange, Application Specific Message (ASM) and Automatic Identification System (AIS). VDES has additional capacity for the exchange of more digital data and could accommodate future growth in demand for using digital data in maritime radiocommunications. It was previously proposed at the IMO that there is a need to amend chapters IV and V of SOLAS to introduce VDES, and to develop performance standards and guidelines to facilitate the widespread adoption of VDES. Furthermore, MSC 108 agreed that the use of any new satellite system, including the VDES, for use in the GMDSS, should be recognised by the Organization in accordance with the applicable procedures.
NCSR in its last session agreed on a voluntary implementation of the VDES as further developments take place, which will allow it to be used concurrently with an AIS.
Progressing on, NCSR 12 finalised and agreed to the following:
- Draft amendments to SOLAS chapter V, in particular inserting words “or VDES” after “AIS”.
- Consequential draft amendments to related mandatory instruments, such as the 1994 HSC Code and the 2000 HSC Code.
- Consequential draft amendments to the records of equipment for the passenger ship safety (form P), cargo ship equipment (form E) and cargo ship safety (form C) Certificates.
The draft instruments are expected to be submitted for approval at MSC 110 in June 2025 as an urgent matter and adopted at MSC 111 in May 2026, with an anticipated entry into force on 1 January 2028. The following non-mandatory instruments are expected to be approved in principle at MSC 110 and formally adopted at MSC 111:
- A draft MSC resolution on Introduction of VDES into the IMO regulatory framework;
- A draft MSC resolution on performance standards for VDES; and
- Draft guidelines for the operational use of shipborne VDES.
- Development of guidelines for the carriage and use of electronic nautical publications (ENP) System
SOLAS regulations V/19.2.1.4, V/19.2.1.5 and V/27 require ships to have nautical charts and publications for voyage planning, display and monitoring, which can be in electronic form with appropriate backups.
The use of ENPs in lieu of traditional nautical publications has surged in recent years due to their advantages. However, there is not an IMO instrument providing uniform instructions, though some guidance has been issued by national hydrographic offices. Therefore, urgent development of specific IMO-level guidance is considered necessary to ensure uniform and global implementation of the aforementioned SOLAS regulations.
Acknowledging this, NCSR finalised and agreed to a draft MSC circular on Guidelines for the carriage and use of electronic nautical publications (ENP) system on board.
The draft guidelines are intended for digital publications based on existing paper publications used on ships, rather than ENP displayed on Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) and does not override any ECDIS performance standards requirements. It focuses on aspects such as hardware and software, adequate backup arrangements and power supply, rather than defining specific performance standards.
The draft guidelines are expected to be submitted for approval at MSC 111 in May 2026 and should be effective immediately once approved.
Communications
Development of guidelines for software maintenance of shipboard navigation and communication equipment and systems
As reliance on computer-based navigation and communication systems grows, effective software maintenance has become critical for maritime safety and operational efficiency. In response to industry challenges and evolving cyber risks, MSC 107 approved the development of non-mandatory guidelines, focusing on equipment regulated under SOLAS chapters IV (Radiocommunications) and V (Safety of Navigation).
An initial industry standard, developed collaboratively by shipowners, service providers, classification societies, and equipment manufacturers, laid the foundation for these draft guidelines. Building on this, NCSR 12 considered the draft guidance for software maintenance that promotes standardised, secure, and transparent processes. The guidelines aim to minimise downtime, enhance system reliability, improve crew awareness, and strengthen cybersecurity without increasing the frequency of maintenance tasks.
Key features of the draft guidelines include:
- Clear roles and processes for initiating, planning, and executing maintenance,
- Cybersecurity and safety measures throughout the maintenance lifecycle,
- Use of electronic service reports and onboard software logs,
- Training and certification of service personnel by equipment manufacturers,
- Guidance for remote maintenance.
NCSR agreed to the draft MSC circular on guidelines for software maintenance of shipboard computer-based navigation and communication equipment and systems. The draft guidelines are expected to be submitted for approval at MSC 111 in May 2026 and should be effective immediately once approved.
Development of guidance to establish a framework for data distribution and global IP-based connectivity between shore-based facilities and ships for ECDIS S-100 products
To support the transition to next-generation S-100 capable electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS), MSC 109 recognised the need for a robust framework enabling secure and standardised IP-based data exchange between shore-based facilities and ships. This transition is essential for delivering real-time navigational, meteorological, and other S-100 products, enhancing maritime safety and situational awareness.
NCSR 12 considered the draft guidance to establish a framework for data distribution and global IP-based connectivity for shore-based facilities and ships supporting ECDIS S-100 products.
The draft guidance aims to address the technical, operational, and cybersecurity challenges associated with the transition to S-100 ECDIS. It leverages existing digital technologies such as the Maritime Connectivity Platform (MCP) and the Secure communication between ship and shore (SECOM) Protocol to ensure:
- Secure communication through encryption and authentication.
- Service discovery within maritime digital networks.
- Data interoperability across different systems.
- Real-time data exchange for timely access to critical updates.
The draft guidance also emphasises the importance of training shore-based staff and familiarising seafarers with the new systems. While designed for S-100 ECDIS, the framework can be extended to other maritime digital services, supporting the sector’s broader digital transformation.
Due to time constraints, the review of the draft guidelines and the draft list of elements associated with the implementation of S-100 capable ECDIS could not be completed, and the work will continue during the intersessional period.
Finalisation is expected at NCSR 13 next year, with approval anticipated at MSC 112. The guidelines should be effective immediately upon approval.
