Automatic identification system
lastmod 2026-03-27created 2026-03-271 edits
The Automatic Identification System (AIS) is a system that lets ships exchange navigation information (ship name, position, speed, etc.) with each other or with VTS centers.
Background and purpose
- To strengthen maritime safety and security, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) made it mandatory for international passenger ships and ships of 300 tons or more on international voyages to carry AIS terminals by Dec 31, 2004, and required coastal states to build base stations
- To fulfill obligations under international conventions and lay the foundation for a national maritime crisis management system, an AIS communication network, operating system, and nationwide integrated network were built across the country
Functions of AIS shore base stations
"Guideline on AIS" from the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA)
- Two-way safety information communication for 4S (Ship to Ship, Ship to Shore) purposes
- Wide-area traffic control of coastal waters and search and rescue support,
- Wideband communication such as ship reporting systems, and aids-to-navigation functions,
- Providing a means of vessel traffic service (VTS) separate from radar, etc.