Task Description

Task name :

Develop guidance on the implications of maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS) from a VTS perspective
Leading committee and working group owning the task: VTS WG 1
Tasks associated (*leading) : VTS - 1.1.3.b - Develop guidance on the implications of maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS) from a VTS perspective
Task Leader : Neil Trainor
Task Number : VTS-1.1.3.a
Standards : S1040 Vessel Traffic Services
Topic area : S1040.1 VTS Implementation
Task Description :

a) Develop guidance on the implications of maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS) from a VTS perspective
Objectives of the task :

Provide guidance to assist authorities ensure the safety and efficiency of vessel movements in the VTS area, recognizing:

  • The evolution of automation and autonomy in the context of how ships are navigated, controlled, and operated.
  • The operational requirements to manage ship traffic comprising a mix of conventional, automized and autonomous ships.
  • Interaction via digital communication will increasingly become the norm for ships to provide information and reports to VTS and for VTS to interact when providing information or issuing advice, warnings, and instructions.
  • The importance of ensuring situational awareness from both the perspective of VTS and participating ships (i.e., the Master/ Master of a MASS) is achieved.
Expected outcome :

New Guideline or contribute to a single IALA MASS guideline

Compelling need :

The concept of MASS is progressing rapidly with many tests and trials being conducted world-wide.

Safety is a primary concern for regulators and legislators and it will be necessary for legislators to achieve a balance in maintaining high safety standards as well as keeping up with rapid technological developments.

VTS will undoubtedly have a key role to play with MASS and the preparation of a discussion paper will provide a robust platform for the Committee to consider its implications and respond strategically in preparing appropriate IALA guidance.
Strategic Alignment :
Scope : KIa
Cybersecurity related :

No
Brief and concise description of the work : to be undertaken and programme mile-stones (where appropriate). VTS54 - Prepare initial Draft, review Task Register and Guiding PrinciplesVTS55 - Revise draft guidanceVTS56 - Final Draft prepared for Silent Approval
Expected numbers of sessions for completion :
328 Session 54 328 Session 55 328 Session 56 328 Session 57 328 Session 58 328 Session 59 328 Session 60
v v >

Meaning of symbols for sessions :

v + x > <
Scheduled Progressed Not progressed Finalised On hold
Committee notes : Origins :
Approved by Council (Council session/Date) : 0
Notes from the council :
Status (Text) :
Status (Color) :
On track
Remarks :

History of the task :

2024-05-13 11:05:32

Note At VTS54 the Committee concluded that the Discussion Paper has provided a valuable contribution to assist the Committee achieve a common understanding of MASS and its implications on the provision of VTS and it was timely to begin foc