IMSO is the oversight body of the satellite communications elements of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) established by IMO and designed to provide a worldwide system for automated emergency signal communication for ships at sea. IMSO ensures that the provision of maritime mobile satellite communications services (currently provided by Inmarsat Ltd and Iridium Ltd) meets the criteria set up by IMO.

IMSO is the Co-ordinator of the Long-Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) system of ships established by IMO and designed to collect and distribute position information received from around 40,000 ships worldwide that are subject to IMO’s International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). IMSO ensures that the system operates properly by undertaking annual audits of all elements of the LRIT system across 123 countries.

IMSO represents its Member States’ interests in relation to the GMDSS and LRIT in global policy-making fora to ensure that these vital systems remain relevant to changing priorities. It also provides expertise and advice on matters relating to IMSO’s mandate at the international and national level to enhance safety and security at sea as well as search and rescue capabilities and standard-setting activities concerning satellite communication systems oversight.