The IMO Maritime Safety Committee, at its 111th session adopted amendments to SOLAS Chapter V introducing the VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) to be carried as an alternative shipborne navigational equipment and system to the Automatic Identification System (AIS). The amendment is scheduled to enter into force on 1 January 2028.
The MSC 111 also adopted performance standards for shipborne VDES (MSC.593 (111)) and approved guidelines for its onboard operational use (MSC.1/Circ. 1699). Carriage of VDES under these provisions is voluntary.
VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) is a maritime communication system designed to enhance the exchange of digital information between ships, shore-based authorities, and other maritime users. It builds on the existing Automatic Identification System (AIS) and expands the capabilities of VHF radio communications to support a wider range of maritime data services.
The primary objectives of VDES are to:
- Facilitate the digitalization of maritime operations, including e-navigation and ship–shore information exchange.
- Support the exchange of maritime safety information (MSI), navigational warnings, and other operational information.
- Improve maritime safety, navigation, and situational awareness.
- Provide enhanced digital data communication between ships and shore stations.
Main components of VDES :
VDES equipment integrates following components and their functions:
- VDE-SAT (Satellite VHF Data Exchange): The satellite component of VDES that enables digital data exchange between ships and satellites, extending maritime data communication beyond the coverage of terrestrial VHF networks.
- VDE-TER (Terrestrial VHF Data Exchange): The terrestrial component of VDES that enables digital data exchange between ships and shore stations, as well as between ships, using VHF radio links.
- ASM (Application-Specific Messages): Supports the exchange of application-specific maritime information between ships and shore stations.
- AIS (Automatic Identification System): Used primarily for ship identification, tracking, and the exchange of safety-related information.
Potential applications and benefits:
VDES can support a range of maritime applications, including:
- Maritime digital services: Support for digital maritime services and more efficient information exchange between ships and maritime authorities.
- Satellite communication: Extended data-exchange coverage beyond the range of terrestrial VHF infrastructure.
- Safety and security: Improved information exchange and potential authentication of AIS messages to help address AIS spoofing.
- Ship–shore communication: Digital exchange of voyage, port, and operational information.
- E-navigation: Exchange of navigational data, route-related information, and maritime service information.
Difference between AIS and VDES:
Primary purpose
AIS: Ship identification, tracking and safety-related information
VDES: Broader maritime digital data exchange
Data capacity
AIS: Relatively limited
VDES: Higher data capacity
Communication
AIS: Primarily terrestrial AIS transmissions, with satellite reception also used for tracking
VDES: Terrestrial and satellite data exchange
Capabilities
AIS: Position reports, identity and voyage-related information
VDES: AIS plus additional data-exchange capabilities and applications
VDES is designed to complement and extend AIS capabilities rather than simply replace its traditional functions.
For detailed information, refer attached IMO Resolutions and Circular.
Enclosure: