IMO NCSR 13: Key outcomes

The thirteenth session of IMO’s Sub-Committee on Navigation, Communications and Search and Rescue (NCSR) took place 22 – 26 June 2026, where matters regarding maritime navigation and communication were discussed. 

NCSR deals with all matters related to navigation and communication, including the analysis and approval of ships routeing measures and ship reporting systems; carriage requirements and performance standards for navigational and communication equipment; the long-range identification and tracking (LRIT) system and the development of e-navigation. It also deals with search and rescue matters and the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), including recognition of service providers. 

RelatedNew

Summary of significant outcomes

Below is a brief overview of some of the significant outcomes from NCSR 13, as provided by Lloyd’s Register:

• Finalization of the draft MSC circular on the transition scheme for digital VHF voice communications, including a roadmap and key principles to maintain GMDSS safety channels while introducing digital capability; approval is expected at MSC 112 (December 2026).
• Finalization of draft MSC circulars on global IP-based data exchange and secure connectivity for S-100 ECDIS products, as well as operational guidance for route exchange; approval is expected at MSC 112 (December 2026).
• Progressed work on NAVDAT implementation matters, building on the adopted Performance Standards (MSC.569(109)); while updated roadmap elements and key enabling actions were agreed, finalization of the overall NAVDAT framework was deferred to NCSR 14 (April 2027), pending further intersessional work.

Navigation

#1 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. The following were agreed:

 the draft amended traffic separation schemes and associated measures:

• Off Delaware Bay;
• Off New York;
• In the approaches to the Cape Fear River; and
• In the approaches to Chesapeake Bay.
• the draft amended mandatory ship reporting system In the Dover Strait/Pas De Calais (CALDOVREP),
• the draft amended mandatory ship reporting system In the Western European Particularly Sensitive Sea Area (WETREP), and
• the draft amended mandatory ship reporting system In the Strait of Bonifacio (BONIFREP).

The finalized drafts are expected to be adopted at MSC 112 in December 2026, with implementation expected six months later.

#2 Development of procedures and requirements for the recognition of augmentation systems in the Worldwide Radionavigation System

The IMO has previously recognized Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and Regional Navigation Satellite Systems (RNSS) constellations as components of the Worldwide Radionavigation System (WWRNS) and has adopted associated performance standards. However, formal procedures and requirements for the recognition of augmentation systems within the WWRNS had not been established. To address this gap, the IMO recently adopted amendments to the WWRNS (A.1046(27)) expected to be published as MSC.599(111), revising its annex to include relevant provisions for augmentation systems. Notwithstanding these developments, it was concluded that formal recognition of augmentation systems by the IMO is not required.

#3 Development of performance standards for dual frequency multi-constellation satellite-based augmentation systems (DFMC SBAS) and advanced receiver autonomous integrity monitoring (ARAIM) in shipborne radionavigation receivers

Building on the above, development has been initiated on performance standards for DFMC SBAS and ARAIM for shipborne radionavigation receivers, with the objective that such standards are goal-based and technology-neutral. However, due to time constraints, NCSR was unable to complete this work and, accordingly, agreed to refer the matter to a Correspondence Group for further consideration, with a view to finalization at the next session (NCSR 14, April 2027).

#4 Development of performance standards for Ranging mode (R-mode) in radionavigation receivers

Furthermore, performance standards were finalized for shipborne R-mode receiver equipment as a terrestrial, GNSS-independent backup system in response to increasing GNSS vulnerabilities. The draft MSC resolution is expected to be submitted to MSC 112 (December 2026) for approval. It was further agreed that amendments to A.1046(27) and expected to be published as MSC.599(111), to accommodate the inclusion of R-mode would be premature at this stage and interested parties were invited to submit proposals for a new output to a future MSC session.

#5 Proposal for Revision of the Performance standards for gyro-compasses (resolution A.424(XI)) and Guidance for navigation and communication equipment intended for use on ships operating in polar waters (MSC.1/Circ.1612)

NCSR 13 considered that existing IMO gyro-compass performance standards (resolution A.424(XI), 1979) and the associated guidance in MSC.1/Circ.1612 may not be fit for purpose for modern technologies like fibre optic gyro-compasses or the needs of polar navigation. In response, it was agreed that development of a new set of performance standards is an appropriate way to address the gaps identified and interested parties were invited to submit proposals for a new output to a future MSC session.

Communications

Development of guidelines for EPIRB which implement the two-way communication service via the SAR/Galileo Return Link service as a complement to EPIRB performance standards (resolution MSC.471(101))

The IMO has agreed to enhance EPIRB performance standards (resolution MSC.471(101)) by incorporating two-way communication (TWC) via the Galileo SAR Return Link Service (RLS). NCSR 13 progressed this work and agreed draft amendments to MSC.471(101) on performance standards for float-free Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) operating on 406 MHz, introducing the two-way communication service as an optional functionality. The draft amendments are expected to be submitted to MSC 112 (December 2026) for approval. NCSR 13 also considered the need to develop guidelines for the operational use of EPIRBs incorporating two-way communication capability, and agreed to defer, pending discussions at the ICAO/IMO Joint Working Group (JWG).

#1 Development of guidance to establish a framework for data distribution and global IP-based connectivity between shore-based facilities and ships for ECDIS S100 products and operational guidance for route exchange

To support the transition to next-generation S-100 capable electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS), the IMO has recognized the need for a robust framework enabling secure and standardized 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. Building on the work from previous sessions, the following were finalized:

• A draft circular providing guidance on establishing a framework for data distribution and global IP-based connectivity for shore-based facilities and ships supporting ECDIS S-100 products. The guidance aims to address the technical, operational, and cybersecurity challenges associated with the transition to S-100 ECDIS.
• A draft circular providing operational guidance for digital route exchange.

Both draft circulars are expected to be submitted to MSC 112 (December 2026) for approval. Additionally, the revised list of implementation elements and the associated high-level summary of issues were considered and agreed that further work should be undertaken at a later stage under a new output, inviting interested parties to submit proposals to future MSC sessions.

#2 Development of a transition scheme for the introduction of digital technology for Very High Frequency (VHF) voice communications

The transition to digital VHF voice communications is driven by increasing spectrum congestion, especially in high-traffic coastal areas, and the need to enhance spectrum efficiency while maintaining safety-of-life communications, including distress, urgency and safety services within the GMDSS. A draft MSC circular on the transition scheme for the introduction of digital technology for VHF voice communications was finalized. This also contains a roadmap addressing key elements of the transition, including technical, operational, regulatory and implementation requirements.

In particular, the following key principles were agreed:

1. retaining existing analogue VHF channels 06, 13, 16, 75 and 76 and the existing assignments of channels 70 (DSC), AIS 1 (AIS-SART) and AIS 2 (AIS-SART) even after transition to digital technology for VHF voice communications to ensure the continuity of vital GMDSS distress, urgency, and safety communications;
2. identification of additional digital VHF channels within ITU Radio Regulations, Appendix 18 in the existing frequency band allocated to the maritime mobile service; and
3. keeping the financial burden on ships and shore-based authorities to a minimum during the implementation process.

The draft circular is expected to be submitted to MSC 112 (December 2026) for approval.

Search and Rescue

#1 Consideration of matters related to NAVDAT (A digital navigational data system) implementation

The IMO has adopted the Performance Standards for digital navigational data system (NAVDAT) MSC.569(109) and the Provision of radio services for the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) MSC.509(105)/Rev.1. Building on this work, the Joint IMO/ITU Experts Group has been working to review the draft NAVDAT manual and deliberating on the roadmap to introduce a NAVDAT service. Due to time constraints, matters related to NAVDAT manual and other related implementation matters could not be completed and will continue during the intersessional period.

Finalization is expected at NCSR 14 (April 2027). That said, it agreed to the updated road map on the issues to be considered regarding the introduction of the NAVDAT service and keeping it updated based on future developments.

Overview of the necessary actions to enable the successful deployment and implementation of the NAVDAT service

Action Items

1. approval of the IEC test and certification standards for NAVDAT shipborne equipment;
2. manufacturing of the NAVDAT shipborne equipment;
3. conducting field trials and testing to obtain practical experience with the implementation of the NAVDAT service;
4. establishment of NAVDAT coast stations;
5. revision of the GMDSS Master Plan module of GISIS to accommodate NAVDAT services;
6. approval of the MSC circular on IMO Terrestrial Broadcast Services;
7. coordinating panel and consequential revision of the NAVTEX Manual;
8. approval of the NAVDAT Manual; and
9. revision of MSC.1/Circ.1645 on Guidance for the reception of maritime safety information and search and rescue related information as required in the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).

#2 Amendments to the IAMSAR Manual

This is a standing agenda item which addresses amendments to the IAMSAR Manual. Shipowners, operators and Masters should note that the IAMSAR Manual Volume III is a surveyable item, and ships are required to carry the most up to date edition. The current 2025 edition of the IAMSAR Manual is effective from 1 January 2026. NCSR 13 continued its work on the preparation and discussion of proposed draft amendments to the IAMSAR Manual for its 2028 edition, including, but not limited to, the following:

• Radar SART and the related draft amendments;
• Psychology of emergency on the principle that SAR personnel could benefit from further detailed guidelines on psychological first aid;
• The activation points of the ship security alert system (SSAS), to be consistent with the provisions of chapter XI-2 of SOLAS;
• Optimizing homing operations for 406 MHz distress beacons and automatic identification system (AIS) signals; and
• Guidance on submarines and passenger submersible craft and related SAR issues;

Any Other Business (AOB)

Progress on standards development by IEC

Technical Committee 80 of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC TC 80) is responsible for the preparation of standards for maritime navigation and communication equipment and systems. NCSR 13 noted the information from IEC TC 80 on the progress of standards completed and under development which will support performance standards and other IMO instruments. This is a standard report which included, but is not limited to the following:

source : safety4sea