ITU-R REPORT M.2202 PDF

Introduction

Radiocommunication plays an important role in providing maritime safety and security for ships, waterways and ports. Currently, there are several maritime safety and security systems that depend heavily on radiocommunication. These systems include the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) and automatic identification system (AIS). A common characteristic of these International Maritime Organization (IMO) mandated systems mentioned above is the low bandwidth of the wireless communication links which limit information exchange rates for purposes such as the transfer of essential navigation data required to improve safety and security at sea.

To improve safety at sea, IMO has proposed a concept known as e-navigation. This concept harmonizes the collection, integration, exchange, presentation and analysis of maritime information onboard and ashore by electronic means to enhance berth-to-berth navigation and related services, for safety and security at sea and protection of the marine environment. A high-speed and costeffective maritime wireless communication link is essential for the success of the e-navigation concept.

In addition to the as yet undefined bandwidth requirements for e-navigation, higher demand for bandwidth is also coming from ship's crews. More crew are demanding Internet access to stay connected to family and friends. Although satellite communication can provide broadband wireless access to ships, the speed is limited and costs are quite high.

This Report proposes the development of a high-speed maritime communication system using radios placed on board ships as relays to form a mesh network. The mesh network will address new bandwidth demands for ships travelling in dense traffic lanes and traffic lanes close to the shoreline.