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Introducing VDES (AIS 2.0) - a Significant Advancement in Maritime Communication & Navigation
VDES (VHF Data Exchange System) known as AIS 2.0, represents a significant advancement in maritime communication technology compared to today’s AIS system. It is designed to provide vessels with a more efficient and reliable means of data exchange and communication while at sea. VDES operates on the VHF (Very High Frequency) band, offering several key benefits for maritime operations.
VDES represents a technological leap forward in maritime communication, offering vessels the capability to exchange data in real-time on a global scale. Its bidirectional communication, reliability, and support for various applications make it a valuable tool for enhancing safety, efficiency, and connectivity in maritime operations.
VDES addresses the overload of the AIS VHF Data Link (VDL) and allows for smarter navigation and communication solutions for the shipping industry. It adds a new dimension with providing terrestrial VDES and satellite VDES, creating a global high-speed ship-to-satellite and satellite-to-ship communication link available for various applications.
By adding space-based capability to VDES, the communication system’s range increases from the shoreline to anywhere in the ocean, converting what is currently a predominantly coastal system into a global maritime system. With up to 32 times more bandwidth than the currently widely used Automatic Identification System (AIS) communication, VDES can be integrated with e-navigation systems, enabling savings in fuel and emissions of up to 25 percent, aiding navigation, and increasing safety. The bandwidth also creates opportunities for a wide range of other services, from delivery of weather data to messaging.
What is VDES Data Used For?
Logistics and Supply Chain
Access data that minimizes the impact of supply chain disruptions, as well as reliable ETAs to optimize port resources.
Defense and Security
Reliable, real-time maritime data for enhanced situational awareness and smarter decision-making when every second counts.
Port Operations
Port operators depend on accurate data for optimizing short and long term operations. Get access to accurate data to optimize short- and long-term port operations and allocate resources effectively.
Search and Rescue Operations
In case of emergencies, VDES plays a crucial role in search and rescue (SAR) operations. Rescue teams can access AIS data to locate distressed vessels quickly, even in remote areas, significantly reducing response times and increasing the chances of saving lives and property.
Optimized Fleet Management
VDES provides fleet operators with accurate and real-time information on the location, speed, and route of their vessels. This enables better route planning, fuel optimization, and reduced operational costs.
Enhanced Regulatory Compliance
By providing a transparent record of vessel movements, VDES can ensure adherence to maritime laws and reduces the risk of illegal activities, such as unauthorized fishing or entering restricted zones.
Environmental Protection
Monitor maritime traffic in ecologically sensitive areas, such as marine protected zones and coral reefs. By tracking vessel movements, authorities can enforce regulations that prevent ships from entering restricted areas, supporting sustainable maritime practices.
VTS and Route Exchange
VDES will improve safety and efficacy in monitoring and planning of dense maritime traffic along shore lines. Shore line traffic is monitored and controlled by Vessel Traffic Services (VTS).
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VDES and Its Implementation for Weather Routing: Promoting Sustainable Cargo Shipping
VDES facilitates accurate and real-time weather updates, forecasts, and critical alerts for vessels. Providing cargo ships with the power to adeptly optimize their routes, circumventing challenging weather conditions, which might otherwise result in delays, potential damage to cargo, and unwanted surges in fuel consumption.
Find out moreVDES Demonstration Mission
Ymir-1
Ymir-1, a flight proven AAC Clyde Space EPIC LINK spacecraft serves as an in-orbit VDES demonstrator. Designed and built by AAC Clyde Space it carries a VDES payload, enabling seamless two-way communication between the satellite and ground-based stations for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore maritime communication everywhere on the globe
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