The IMO's Navigation, Communications and Search and Rescue Sub-Committee is where all matters related to navigation and communication, search and rescue and the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System are discussed​​​​.

NCSR 11 met in London from 4 - 13 June 2024.  

Outcomes from NCSR 11:

  1. NCSR 11 agreed to draft amendments to SOLAS regulation V/23 and associated codes to improve the safety of pilot transfer arrangements. The sub-committee also agreed the draft MSC resolution on Performance Standards for pilot transfer arrangements. The proposed changes are set to be submitted to MSC 109 for approval, followed by adoption by MSC 110 (June 2025).  

  2. NCSR 11 progressed its work on amending SOLAS V to include the VHF data exchange system (VDES) as an additional voluntary carriage requirement at this stage. The sub-committee will continue to work intersessionally to finalise draft amendments to SOLAS chapter V, draft performance standards for VDES, and the draft guidelines for the operational use of shipborne VDES.

  3. NCSR 11 approved the draft MSC resolution on Performance Standards for digital navigational data system (NAVDAT) and the draft revision of resolution MSC.509(105) on Provision of radio services for the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), set for adoption by MSC 109 (December 2024). MSC 108 previously agreed that NAVDAT implementation should not replace shipborne NAVTEX receivers. Remaining work for NAVDAT implementation can be addressed under the existing output of
    "Developments in GMDSS services, including guidelines on maritime safety information (MSI)".

  4. NCSR 11 agreed to the draft revision of the MSC circular on Guidance on the validity of radiocommunications equipment installed and used on ships (MSC.1/Circ.1460/Rev.4), which will be disseminated as MSC.1/Circ.1460/Rev.5, pending approval by MSC 109 (December 2024). The revision clarifies that mandatory VHF/DSC equipment should comply with ITU requirements at the time of implementation. Once approved, the requirement to update existing VHF radiocommunication equipment will follow the first radio survey after January 1, 2028. 

More LR regulatory updates, including those from IMO meetings, are available at www.lr.org/imo.