The S-100 Standard: Transforming Ship Navigation
Digitalisation is one of the key themes of Europort 2025, and data is also at the heart of an approaching transformation for ship navigation.Highly sophisticated and required to collate data from multiple sensors to update electronic navigational charts (ENCs), shipboard navigational systems have actually made slow progress towards the standardisation that will support 'e-navigation’.
To overcome the challenge, the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) has developed S-100 - a framework that offers a universal standard for data which makes it easier to collect, share and interpret, and, crucially, enhances interoperability.
As the successor to the S-57 standard, S-100 supports the integration of data covering tidal and weather information, seafloor depth, and navigational warnings, into a single system. Developed to enhance situational awareness, improve safety, and boost efficiency by providing more precise and up-to-date information, its modular structure can also adapt to evolving shipping needs. S-100 data sets are also machine-readable to ensure that they are future-proof for the navigational technologies of tomorrow.
According to the UK Hydrographic Office, the S-100 standards will underpin the next generation of navigation technology and sustainable ocean management by unlocking the power of shared data to transform international ship navigation systems. Implementing S-100 will deliver optimised loading capacity and reduced environmental impact, according to the Hydrographic Services and Standards Committee.
At the 108th Session of Maritime Safety Committee, in May 2024, International Maritime Organization administrations adopted Resolution MSC.530(106), to revise Performance Standards for Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS). The adoption formally signalled global commitment to the implementation of the S-100 standard. From 1 January 2026, S-100 ECDIS will be legal for use, and by 1 January 2029 all new systems must comply with the updated IMO ECDIS Performance Standards, which includes the S-100 standard.
Keen to find out more about S-100 and compliant next generation navigation solutions? Join us at #Europort 2025 and speak to our exhibiting S-100 and e-navigation experts, including UKHO, Sperry Marine, Wärtsilä, and JRC | Alphatron Marine.