AIS Application-Specific Messages: Expectation and Reality

The automatic identification system (AIS) contributes to safety of navigation and marine protection by enhancing situationai awareness of vessel movements and providing navigationrelated information in the form of AIS application-specific messages (ASMs). These include meteorological and hydrographie data (met/hydro), dangerous cargos, safety and security zones, recommended routes, status of aids to navigation and other time-sensitive safety information. This information can be broadcast from any AIS shore station and received by shipborne AIS equipment that is installed onboard most oceangoing vessels as required by national regulations