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1. The IMO Maritime Safety Committee, at its 111^th 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. Difference between AIS and VDES:

VDES is designed to complement and extend AIS capabilities rather than simply replace its traditional functions.

8. For detailed information, refer attached IMO Resolutions and Circular.

Enclosure:

1. IMO Res. MSC. 583 (111)
2. IMO Res. MSC. 592 (111)
3. IMO Res. MSC. 593 (111)
4. IMO Circular – MSC.1/Circ. 1699 - Guidelines for the onboard operational use of shipborne VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) 

This Technical Circular and the material contained in it is provided only for the purpose of supplying current information to the reader and not as an advice to be relied upon by any person. While we have taken utmost care to be as factual as possible, readers/ users are advised to verify the exact text and content of the Regulation from the original source/ issuing Authority.

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