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.a - 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.b
Standards : S1040 Vessel Traffic Services
Topic area : S1040.1 VTS Implementation
Task Description :

b) Assess the implications associated with the advent of MASS on IALA Standards specifically related to the establishment and operation of VTS (scoping exercise)

Objectives of the task :

To ensure IALA Standards specifically related to the establishment and operation of VTS evolve with the advent of MASS and continue to provide an effective framework for achieving worldwide harmonisation of VTS through a scoping exercise to:

• Identify guidance requiring updating/amendment.

• Identify additional guidance required with the advent of MASS.

• Provide a framework for planning the preparation of amended/new guidance that reflects the conclusions described in the Discussion Paper - Implications of MASS from a VTS perspective, as amended, particularly with regards to the assumptions, implications and expected timeframes.

Expected outcome :

New Guideline or contribute to a single IALA MASS guideline

Compelling need :

The IALA Current Drivers and Trends document (link to document) serves as guidance as to how IALA can reach its strategic goals with a long-term horizon and perspective. Nine trends and developments have been identified to be monitored closely and when required, appropriate action should be taken such as an adjustment of the priorities and/or structure of the organization, including:

“Development of autonomous, automated and unmanned vessels”

Completion of the scoping exercise provides a sound basis for ensuring IALA guidance specifically related to VTS keeps pace with the advent of MASS
Strategic Alignment :
Scope :

In Scope:

Align with the assumptions and implications for VTS described in the Discussion Paper – Implications of MASS from a VTS Perspective.

All IALA guidance documents specifically related to the establishment and operation of VTS.

Providing a plan to for reviewing/updating appropriate guidance documents with the advent of MASS and changes to IMO instruments associated with MASS operations for the Committee’s consideration and approval by Council.

Note: - It is intended that all updated/ new guidance would be undertaken through work programme tasks approved by the Committee/Council.
Cybersecurity related :

No
Brief and concise description of the work : to be undertaken and programme mile-stones (where appropriate).

VTS 51: ommence Task Oct 2021

VTS 52: First Draft completed for approval by the Committee Mar 2022

VTS 60: A plan of the review/update of guidance document required in the advent of MASS and associated changes to IMO instruments. Oct 2026 (
Expected numbers of sessions for completion :
329 Session 54 329 Session 55 329 Session 56 329 Session 57 329 Session 58 329 Session 59 329 Session 60
v 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) :
Not started
Remarks :

History of the task :