Why is the Class M regulation being introduced?.

The Class M regulation is being introduced across Europe by regulatory authorities to enhance the efficiency of AIS Channels 1&2 and prevent them from being overloaded by irrelevant off-ship devices such as fishing net markers and navigation buoys, which can impact the navigation and collision avoidance effectiveness of AIS. They also aim to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of AMRDs (autonomous maritime radio devices), such as AIS MOBs, and enhance the reliability of DSC as a 'Man Overboard' alerting technology.

Class M is being introduced to address these concerns. From implementation, all group B AMRDs (those defined as not enhancing the safety of navigation) can only use channel 2006 and cannot use AIS channels 1 & 2. This regulation ensures that these AIS channels contain only relevant and accurate information.

Starting from 1st January 2025, all AIS MOBs must be Class M compliant to meet these new regulations.

The FAQ above is our interpretation of the ECC legislation highlighted in document https://docdb.cept.org/document/28560