The introduction of S-100 requires the implementation of several steps to ensure a smooth transition. Adopting this new standard requires overcoming technical, operational, and organisational hurdles, including updating digital infrastructures, training personnel, and ensuring data accuracy and consistency. The next two articles in the series of twelve explore the complexities of implementing S-100 and the steps that can be taken to ensure its successful adoption.
The introduction of advanced communications systems
One of the most important aspects when considering the future of navigation, and in particular remote and autonomous operations, is the introduction of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. Companies including Starlink, OneWeb, and Viasat are now deploying thousands of LEO satellites to provide high-speed internet connectivity in regions where traditional communication networks are unavailable or unreliable.
At the same time, the industry is seeing the emergence of the VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) standard. Ships and ports are moving away from the standard one-way Automated Identification System (AIS) to this more advanced two-way data communication system.
AIS is often deactivated because the information transmitted is not encrypted, meaning all members of the network can receive it. VDES allows for highly detailed information to be shared, including navigational charts, weather forecasts, and safety alerts in real time. Additionally, the communication will adhere to an international standard, allowing the use of equipment that is not restricted to a specific service provider.
These new communication capabilities not only provide accurate knowledge of the position, course, speed and status of vessels, but also enable the sending of relevant information. For example, for alerts on sightings of drifting objects, indications of fishing zones, pollution spots, possible delays in port arrival time and other incidents.
The introduction of VDES is important when considering the role of S-100 in future navigation. VDES will serve as a communication backbone for transmitting the data specified in S-100 products. Importantly, it will allow for vessel route information to be shared and will enable the development of autonomous systems, independently from ECDIS.
The dual-fuel ECDIS period
The dual-fuel ECDIS period is a necessary transitional stage that will see ECDIS use ENCs in both S-57 and S-100 formats. This is both a challenge and an opportunity for end users and hydrographic offices.
A representative from IC-ENC told us during an interview that at some point a line will need to be drawn under legacy tools and replaced with S-100. The challenge today is that there is some uncertainty as to when exactly this will happen.
S-57 data will at some point be required to turn into S-100. For hydrographic offices, this means that in addition to efficiently generating new products simultaneously with the old, they also have to understand how to encode the new specification, as well as how to manage, analyse, produce and publish these products.
A major challenge ahead is that while the S-100 standards may come into force as early as 2026, this could be too soon for ECDIS manufacturers to meet the deadline. ECDIS manufacturers will have to comply with the new product specifications while hydrographic offices will need to produce the data required to meet the product specifications.
For further insight into the areas highlighted in this article, download our thought leadership report ‘New Waters’, created in partnership with the UK Hydrographic Office. Based on the findings of a comprehensive maritime research project, this report explores the five key steps to supporting the successful adoption of the International Hydrographic Organization’s (IHO) S-100 data framework.
