How are marine communications managed and what are the differentiating factors? Maritronics, one of the leading marine communication solution providers in UAE explains.
Evolution of Marine Communication
During the past decade, the marine industry has witnessed many changes and radio telecommunication at sea has evolved rapidly. Gone are the days of semaphores and flags—radio communication has transformed how the maritime industry works globally.
Early Use of Radio at Sea
From the early years of the last century, ships started fitting radios for communicating distress signals among themselves and with the shore. Radio telegraphy using Morse code dominated during the early 20th century.
Role of Radio Officers and Automation
Conventional methods of communication needed a dedicated radio officer who maintained contact with ship and shore. With automation, radio communication is now error-free and deflection-free. The system monitors the ship and ensures safety for both machinery and crew.
Impact of Satellites on Marine Communication
Satellites played a pivotal role in marine communication systems. Ships connected with shores through satellites, while VHF radios enabled ship-to-ship communication.
Digital Selective Calling (DSC)
Digital Selective Calling (DSC) introduced digitally controlled commands to transmit or receive distress alerts, urgent or safety calls, and routine priority messages using VHF radios, as mandated by the SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) convention.
Satellite Services for Marine Communication
Geo-stationary satellite services enable signal transmission and reception where shore stations cannot reach. These are provided by:
INMARSAT – a commercial company offering two-way communications.
COSPAS-SARSAT – a multinational government-funded agency that supports only signal reception from emergency positions in areas without two-way communication facilities.
Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GMDSS)
For international operations, GMDSS divides the world into four geographical sub-areas: A1, A2, A3, and A4. Each area has specific coverage and equipment requirements.
Area A1 – Near Shore Coverage
Range: 20–30 nautical miles from shore, under at least one VHF coast station with continuous DSC alerting.
Equipment: VHF, DSC, NAVTEX receiver (navigational and meteorological information).
Area A2 – Extended Coastal Coverage
Range: Up to 400 nautical miles from shore, excluding A1.
Equipment: DSC, MF radio telephone, plus A1 equipment.
Area A3 – INMARSAT Satellite Coverage
Range: Between 70°N and 70°S latitude, within INMARSAT’s satellite reach.
Equipment: HF radio and/or INMARSAT system, MSI receivers, plus A1 and A2 systems.
Area A4 – Polar Regions
Range: Polar regions north and south of 70° latitude, beyond A1, A2, and A3.
Equipment: HF radio services, plus all equipment from A1, A2, and A3.
IMO mandates at least two coast stations per ocean region for HF coverage.
Upgrading to Modern Marine Systems
If your ship doesn’t have a satellite terminal for SSAS (Ship Security Alert System), it’s time to upgrade. Maritronics engineers in UAE can help install SSAS and ensure compliance.
Maritronics’ Role in the UAE
Maritronics is the leading marine communication service provider in Dubai. With expert service engineers and 24-hour support, they help ships enhance safety and operational efficiency.
The sea is now safer, and the maritime business continues to rise. With advanced navigational tools and radio communication systems, the marine industry has become more secure, efficient, and promising.
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