GMDSS: Global Maritime Distress and Safety System

GMDSS is the internationally mandated framework that ensures ships can call for help and receive safety information anywhere at sea.

What it is

The Global Maritime Distress and Safety System is an IMO-mandated set of procedures, equipment and communication protocols for distress alerting and the broadcast of maritime safety information.

How it works

It blends terrestrial radio (VHF, MF, HF) with satellite links, using automatic distress alerting and requirements that scale with the sea areas a vessel operates in.

Providers

Inmarsat and Iridium are recognized satellite GMDSS providers, together extending mandated distress coverage worldwide, including polar regions.

The Mind4Ship angle

GMDSS is a safety system and is separate from operational data. Mind4Ship never competes with it; we design around it and always respect its priority on the vessel.

GMDSS: Global Maritime Distress and Safety System

What it is

How it works

Providers

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