3 Future use of digital VHF channels
The current version of Appendix 18 to the ITU Radio Regulations (RR), stipulates that, as from 01 January 2017 the VHF channels 21, 22, 23, 80, 81, 82 and 83 are identified for digital use and can also be used for analogue modulation (voice communication) by an Administration that wishes to do so. Furthermore the IMO Maritime Safety Committee at its 98th session concluded that the upgrade dates of VHF equipment should be re-scheduled and extended the implementation date from 01 January 2017 to the first radio survey after 01 January 2024 (see MSC.1/Circ.1460/Rev.2).
It was noticed that the new provisions established by World Radio communication Conference 15 in Appendix 18 to the RR may have led to prompt actions among some manufacturers and maintenance service providers who, after 01 January 2017, started to update VHF radio equipment aboard ships sailing around the world accordingly.
In many countries these analogue modulated channels are still operated by competent VTS and port authorities for shore side vessel traffic monitoring, and mandatory reporting systems. The non-availability of these channels therefore may lead to potentially dangerous situations. Specifically in dense traffic areas and areas where mandatory reporting is required.
The use of these analogue channels by ships is usually mandated by national or local authorities.
Until the end of the transition period (i.e. first radio survey after 01-01-2024) as agreed by the IMO Maritime Safety Committee, or until any other date as explicitly communicated, the Netherlands Shipping Inspectorate requires (without prejudice to the arrangements contained in Appendix 18 of the RR) that VHF channels 21, 22, 23, 80, 81, 82 and 83 in VHF equipment remain programmed for analogue modulation on board ships sailing in waters under jurisdiction of the Netherlands.
Shipowners and Masters should pay special attention to this matter and check that after each VHF radio service including software upgrades of the VHF, the analogue functionality of VHF Channel channels 21, 22, 23, 80, 81, 82 and 83 is still available. Masters of ships sailing waterways and calling at ports within the Netherlands should realize that the mentioned analogue modulated channels are in use for Vessel Traffic Services, mandatory reporting at waterway sectors, bridges, locks, etc. An extra check during voyage planning as required by SOLAS chapter V is strongly recommended. If these analogue modulated channels have been removed from the ship’s VHF installation, steps should be taken to ensure that the mandatory reporting and communication requirements can be complied with, prior to the planned port calls.
The complete statement on the use of VHF channels may be found in NeRF.