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Automatic Identification System
Coastal Surveillance
In coastal waters, shoreside authorities may establish automated AIS stations to
monitor the movement of vessels through the area. These stations may simply
monitor AIS transmissions from passing ships, or may actively poll vessels via the
AIS channels, requesting data such as identification, destination, ETA, type of
cargo and other information. Coast stations can also use the AIS channels for
shore-to-ship transmissions, to send information on tides, notices to mariners and
local weather forecasts. Multiple AIS coast stations and repeaters may be tied
together into Wide Area Networks (WAN) for extended coverage.
Coastal nations may use AIS to monitor the movement of hazardous cargoes and
control commercial fishing operations in their territorial waters. AIS data can be
logged automatically for playback in investigating an accident, oil spill or other
event. AIS is also a useful tool in search and rescue (SAR) operations, allowing
SAR coordinators to monitor the movements of all surface ships, aircraft and heli-
copters involved in the rescue effort.
Vessel Traffic Systems
When integrated with shore-based vessel traffic systems (VTS), AIS provides a
powerful tool for monitoring and controlling the movement of vessels through
restricted harbors and waterways. The AIS can augment traditional radar-based
VTS installations, providing an AIS "overlay" on the radar picture, or can provide
a cost-effective alternative in areas where it is not feasible to establish radar-based
systems. When integrated with radar, the AIS can ensure continuous coverage,
Version 2.0
Operator's Manual
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