AIS message transmissions number in the tens of millions every single day. The Internet of Things, radar and vessel monitoring systems have hugely increased the amount of data to be processed, stored, analysed and distributed, but a secure cloud-based or hosted infrastructure can reduce the cost, commercial and operational load while increasing the value to the mariner.
Class A Automatic Information System (AIS) transponders are mandatory on all ships of over 300GT on international voyages – and have been for more than a decade. In addition, tens of thousands of Class B AIS systems and other devices operating in the AIS band are in use, including smartphones that carry AIS apps.
Numerous systems have been deployed on land and in space to collect AIS data, promoting the four key benefits of safety, security, protection of the environment and the reaping of economic advantages. So what is the next phase, and how do authorities large and small participate and take advantage of rapidly developing technologies and applications?
