2 June 2025

The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Sub-Committee on Navigation, Communications and Search and Rescue (NCSR) held its 12th session from 13 to 22 May 2025, delivering several important outcomes that will shape the future of maritime operations.

Key developments included the approval of new ships’ routeing and reporting requirements designed to enhance navigational safety in specific regions. These changes aim to improve traffic management and reduce the risk of collisions in increasingly busy sea lanes.

In a significant move toward digital transformation, the Sub-Committee also endorsed new guidelines for the carriage and use of electronic nautical publications. These are intended to ensure consistent global standards and facilitate the shift away from traditional paper-based navigation tools.

Notably, draft amendments to the SOLAS Convention were agreed to support the future introduction of the VHF Data Exchange System (VDES). VDES represents the next generation of maritime communication, offering enhanced data capacity and more efficient ship-to-shore connectivity compared to the existing AIS framework.

ICOMIA, the International Council of Marine Industry Associations, has released a full report on the meeting together with supporting documentation. British Marine members can find full access:

IMO Meeting Reports :: British Marine

British Marine members can also access advice and guidance by emailing technical@britishmarine.co.uk