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Summary of significant outcomes
Below is a brief overview of some of the significant outcomes from NCSR 12:
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).

Lloyd’s Register Briefing Note – Summary Report NCSR 12 Page 3
May 2025 ©Lloyd’s Register 2025
Introduction
NCSR 12 took place 13 – 22 May 2025 at the IMO in London. This report provides a summary of the outcomes
from the meeting which are significant to Lloyd’s Register’s (LR) work with our customers.
Lloyd’s Register contributed in the Working Group on Navigation.
Additional Information LR’s Summary Report for MSC 109 and Summary Report for NCSR 11
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.
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 procedures and requirements for the recognition of
augmentation systems in the Worldwide Radionavigation System
Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are the primary source of Positioning, Navigation and Timing
(PNT) information for ships worldwide. While adequate for ocean navigation, standalone GNSS systems often
lack the accuracy and integrity needed for navigation in coastal waters and harbour approaches. To address
this, augmentation systems such as Radiobeacon Differential GNSS (DGNSS), SBAS (Satellite Based
Augmentation System) and RAIM (Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring) are widely used to enhance
GNSS performance.

IMO has previously recognised GNSS and Regional Navigation Satellite Systems (RNSS) constellations as part
of the Worldwide Radionavigation System (WWRNS) and adopted related performance standards. However,
formal procedures and requirements for recognising augmentation systems within WWRNS are still lacking. In
response, MSC approved outputs to develop such procedures before addressing performance standards for
dual frequency multi-constellation satellite-based augmentation systems (DFMC SBAS) and advanced receiver
autonomous integrity monitoring (ARAIM) in shipborne radionavigation receivers.
NCSR agreed on below:

Recognition of augmentation systems is not necessary as they are considered to be a method of
improving GNSS attributes, such as accuracy, integrity, continuity and availability, not forming part of
the WWRNS.
Draft MSC resolution on Amendments to WWRNS (resolution A.1046(27)) to incorporate additions to
current procedures and requirements to include augmentation systems.
Initiating work on development of performance standards for DFMC SBAS and ARAIM in shipborne
radionavigation receivers at NCSR 13 (June 2026).
The draft MSC resolution is expected to be submitted for approval at MSC 111 in May 2026, with an anticipated
entry into force on 1 January 2028.
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.
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May 2025 ©Lloyd’s Register 2025
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.
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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.
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Search and Rescue
Developments in GMDSS services, including guidelines on maritime safety
information (MSI)
Issues concerning the dissemination of maritime safety information (MSI) and search and rescue (SAR)
MSC 108 discussed significant developments in Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) services,
particularly focusing on the dissemination of Maritime Safety Information (MSI) and instructed NCSR to draft
amendments to SOLAS, mandating the dissemination of MSI and SAR (Search and Rescue) related information
through all operational RMSSs (Recognised Mobile Satellite Services). The implementation date for
disseminating MSI through all operational RMSSs was set to be no later than 31 December 2026.
In line with above, NCSR at its last session had Instructed the joint IMO/ITU Experts Group to draft SOLAS
amendments. NCSR at this session finalised and agreed to below draft amendments to clearly state the
requirement for dissemination of maritime safety information and SAR related information through all
operational recognised mobile satellite services:
Draft amendment to SOLAS regulation IV/5 (provision of radiocommunication services), SOLAS
regulations V/4 (navigation warnings) and SOLAS V/5 (meteorological services and warnings);
Draft amendment to Resolution MSC.509(105) on Provision of radio services for the Global Maritime
Distress and Safety System.
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.
Consideration of matters related to NAVDAT (A digital navigational data system) implementation
At its last session NCSR approved the draft MSC resolution on Performance Standards for digital navigational
data system (NAVDAT) and the draft revision of resolution MSC.509(105) on Provision of radio services for the
Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), which later got adopted by MSC 109. It further Instructed
the Joint IMO/ITU Experts Group to review the draft NAVDAT manual, consider the revised roadmap, and
advise accordingly.
Considering the work done by the Joint IMO/ITU Experts Group, NCSR 12 continued work on developing the
draft NAVDAT manual. It also progressed on the road map on the issues to be considered regarding the
introduction of the NAVDAT service.
Due to time constraints, the review of the draft manual could not be completed and will continue during the
intersessional period. Finalisation is expected at NCSR 13 next year, with approval anticipated at MSC 112 in
December 2026. The guidelines should be effective immediately upon approval.
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Development of global maritime SAR services, including harmonisation of
maritime and aeronautical procedures and amendments to the IAMSAR Manual
Search and rescue impacts of MASS
MSC 109 considered the search and rescue implications for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS),
noting that Chapter 23 of the MASS Code remains under development. It decided that the invitation to NCSR
to review the chapter will take place after the finalisation and adoption of the non-mandatory code –
finalisation of the Code is expected at MSC 111 in May 2026.
Additionally, following the work carried out by the ICAO/IMO Joint Working Group, NCSR noted the
understanding that remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) and other autonomous craft are not required to conduct
searches for craft with no persons on board, and that distress beacons should not be used for alerting on craft
with no persons on board.
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 is a surveyable item and ships are required to carry the most
up to date edition. The current edition of the IAMSAR Manual was published on 1 June 2022. The next edition
had been finalised at NCSR 11 last year and is due to be published in June 2025.
NCSR at this session initiated the work on the preparation and discussion of proposed draft amendments to
the IAMSAR Manual for its 2028 edition. The following matters for discussion and finalisation at future sessions
of NCSR may be included in that edition:
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, including the possibility of developing a draft circular on the
subject.
Optimising homing operations for 406 MHz distress beacons and automatic identification system (AIS)
signals.
Guidance on submarines and passenger submersible craft and related SAR issues.
Additionally, NCSR also agreed to a revision of Procedure for responding to DSC distress alerts by ships
(MSC.1/Circ.1657), comprising modifications to enhance consistency and alignment with the relevant
provisions of Recommendation ITU-R M.541-11 (Operational procedures for the use of digital selective calling
equipment in the maritime mobile service ) as well as of those in Recommendation ITU-R M.585-9 (Assignment
and use of identities in the maritime mobile service). The draft revision is expected to be submitted to MSC 111
for approval in May 2026, and should be effective immediately once approved.
Subject to approval of the draft revisions to MSC.1/Circ.1657, consequential amendments to IAMSAR and
GMDSS manuals would be necessary in due course.
Guidance for entering and updating information on search and rescue services into the Global SAR Plan
NCSR 11 last year identified the need to improve guidance on entering and updating maritime search and
rescue (SAR) service information in the GISIS Global SAR Plan. The Secretariat was tasked with preparing
consolidated guidance, incorporating existing materials and new criteria for defining Search and Rescue
Regions (SRRs). This supports harmonisation of maritime and aeronautical SAR procedures and enhances
global SAR coordination.
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NCSR finalised and approved the draft COMSAR circular on Guidance for entering and updating information on
search and rescue services into the Global SAR Plan and on how to get access to the information for
operational use.
Revision of the Performance Standards for Shipborne BeiDou Satellite Navigation
System (BDS) Receiver Equipment (resolution MSC.379(93))
The BeiDou Satellite Navigation System (BDS) was recognised by IMO in 2014 as part of the World-Wide
Radionavigation System (WWRNS), with performance standards adopted under resolution MSC.379(93). Since
its full commissioning in 2020, BDS has operated reliably and now offers enhanced services, including
improved positioning accuracy, dual-frequency capabilities, and global PNT and messaging functions.
In response to these advancements, a proposal was submitted to the NCSR to revise the performance
standards. The draft revision enables the shipborne BDS receiver equipment to support or integrate new
navigation signals and support the use of single-frequency and dual-frequency modes with enhanced
positioning accuracy and sensitivity to promote the development of equipment in the maritime industry and
enable maritime users to use the improved services provided by BDS.
Following consideration of the proposed amendments, NCSR 12 reviewed and finalised the draft revision of
MSC.379(93) Performance standards for shipborne BeiDou Satellite Navigation System (BDS) receiver equipment
to align with the current BDS capabilities.
The draft revision is expected to be submitted to MSC 111 (May 2026) for approval and should be applicable to
the BDS receiver equipment installed on or after 31 July 2028.
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Any other business
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 12 noted the report 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):
Area Standard Status
GNSS IEC 61108-8: Maritime navigation and radiocommunication
equipment and systems – Global navigation satellite systems
(GNSS) – Part 8: Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) receiver
equipment – Performance requirements, methods of testing and
required test results.
Target
publication: 2028
ECDIS IEC 61174 (revision) Maritime navigation and
radiocommunication equipment and systems – Electronic chart
display and information system (ECDIS) – Operational and
performance requirements, methods of testing and required test
results
In progress
CMDS (Route
Exchange)
IEC 63173-1: Maritime navigation and radiocommunication
equipment and systems – Data interfaces – Part 1: S-421 route
plan based on S-100 and IEC 63173-2: Maritime navigation and
radiocommunication equipment and systems – Data interfaces –
Part 2: Secure communication between ship and shore (SECOM).
In progress,
alongside ECDIS
standard
VDES New standard in progress Ongoing with ITU
& IALA
GMDSS (VHF) IEC 61097-7 (revision) Global maritime distress and safety
system (GMDSS) – Part 7: Shipborne VHF radiotelephone
transmitter and receiver – Operational and performance
requirements, methods of testing and required test results
Target
publication: 2026
GMDSS (MF/HF) IEC 61097-9 (revision) Global maritime distress and safety
system (GMDSS) – Part 9: Shipborne transmitters and receivers for
use in the MF and HF bands suitable for telephony, digital
selective calling (DSC) and reception of Maritime Safety
Information and Search and Rescue related information –
Operational and performance requirements, methods of testing
and required test results
Target
publication: 2026
VHF DSC (Non-
SOLAS)
IEC 62238 (revision) Maritime navigation and
radiocommunication equipment and systems – VHF
radiotelephone equipment incorporating Class «D» Digital
Selective Calling (DSC) – Methods of testing and required test
results
This standard is of interest to ships for which the SOLAS
Convention does not apply but that participate in the GMDSS.
In progress

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