Expanding AIS infrastructure

Two key players in the field of AIS are making significant headway with further major contracts to develop AIS infrastructures in various regions.

VTS specialist Norcontrol IT already has AIS solutions in several port and coastal areas, including the AIS concept R3 in the Oslofjord VTMIS and the port of Singapore. More recently it strengthened its position with a ?teaming agreement? with AIS and VTS solutions provider Tideland Maritime Systems.

Norcontrol IT?s recent high profile AIS solution contracts include an AIS network trial for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency in the UK. This involves AIS base stations, network control functions and an AIS Database that will help asses the requirement of the Vessel Traffic Monitoring Directive and related EU legislation. When fully operational the system is expected to cover 80% of the UK?s maritime traffic.

Elsewhere, international marine electronics manufacturer Kongsberg Seatex ? part of Kongsberg Maritime ? has been awarded a contract to develop AIS infrastructure covering the coast of Norway. The contract includes delivery, installation and implementation of AIS base station equipment for 35 shore-based stations, AIS server station equipment for two server stations and AIS control center equipment for one control center.

Konsgberg Seatex started the contract in January and completion is scheduled for the end of this year. With the land-based AIS network operational and AIS data available, the Norwegian National Coastal Administration will be on schedule according to the implementation plan of AIS on SOLAS vessels ? this states that all vessels of more than 300 gt must be equipped with AIS by the end of 2004.