IMSO Advisory Committee – 51st Session

IMSO held the 51st session of its Advisory Committee from 9 to 12 June 2025 at the International Maritime Organization Headquarters in London.

The session focused on IMSO’s ongoing oversight of Recognized Mobile Satellite Service Providers in the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) and its role in monitoring the performance of the Long-Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) system.

The Committee took note of updated audit methodologies and technical analysis intended to support future deliberations at the IMO Maritime Safety Committee 110th session on the evolution of the LRIT framework.

Discussions also addressed broader developments in the satellite communications sector, including regulatory challenges linked to market growth, the protection of L-band spectrum for maritime safety services and the future of the GMDSS in light of rapid technological evolution. In addition, IMSO presented, for consideration, the concept of a dedicated emergency back-up command-and-control system in support of the safe operation of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS).

IMSO is pleased to note the appointment of His Excellency Kamal Al Junaidi (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) as Chair of the Advisory Committee and Mary Leizl Barbero (Philippines) as Vice-Chair for the 2025–2026 biennium.

IMSO looks forward to working under their leadership and continuing its collaboration with all Parties in support of maritime safety.