The Automatic Identification System (AIS) is a system
used by ships and Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) principally for identification
and locating vessels. AIS provides a means for ships to electronically
exchange ship data including: identification, position, course, and
speed, with other nearby ships and VTS stations. This information can
be displayed on a screen or an
ECDIS display. AIS is intended to assist the vessel's watchstanding
officers and allow maritime authorities to track and monitor vessel
movements. It works by integrating a standardized
VHF transceiver system with an electronic navigation system, such
as a
LORAN-C (LOng RAnge Navigation Version C) or
Global Positioning System receiver, and other navigational sensors
on board ship (gyrocompass,
rate of turn indicator, etc..
The International Maritime Organization's (IMO) International Convention
for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) requires AIS to be fitted aboard
international voyaging ships with gross tonnage (GT) of 300 or more
tons, and all passenger ships regardless of size. It is estimated that
more than 40,000 ships currently carry AIS class A equipment.
