IEC 61924-2:2021

Overview

IEC 61924-2:2021 - Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems - Integrated navigation systems (INS) - Part 2 defines minimum operational and performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results for modular Integrated Navigation Systems (INS). Edition 2.0 (2021) specifies design, manufacture, integration and verification criteria intended to ensure compliance with IMO Resolution MSC.252(83) as amended by MSC.452(99). The document also takes account of IMO Resolution A.694(17) associated with IEC 60945; where conflicts exist, IEC 61924-2 requirements take precedence.

Key topics and technical requirements

The standard organizes INS requirements into modular sections and covers core technical areas, including:

• Module A - Integration of navigational information

  • Interfacing and data exchange between sensors and systems
  • Data availability, validity, integrity and failure handling
  • Accuracy requirements, latency, plausibility checks and marking of data
  • Consistent Common Reference System (CCRS) and common reference point (CCRP)
  • Integrity monitoring and sensor/source selection

• Module B - Task-related INS requirements

  • Functional tasks: route planning, route monitoring, collision avoidance, navigation control data, alert management, status/data display
  • Task stations, display requirements, default configurations and mode/status awareness
  • Human–machine interface (HMI) design, inputs and displays
  • Redundancy, backup strategies, failure modes, fallback arrangements and power supply considerations
  • Technical requirements for hardware, processors, communications and installation

• Module C - Alert management

  • Central alert management architecture, priorities, categories and states (alarm/warning/caution)
  • Consistent alert presentation, audible announcements, escalation and history
  • Self‑monitoring, testing of alerts and fault tolerance of alert communication

Practical applications and who uses this standard

IEC 61924-2:2021 is intended for stakeholders involved in maritime safety, navigation equipment and system integration:

• Shipbuilders and system integrators designing modular Integrated Navigation Systems (INS)
• Maritime equipment manufacturers and sensor suppliers
• Classification societies and flag administrations evaluating compliance with IMO requirements
• Ship operators, shipyards and procurement teams specifying INS performance and testing
• Test laboratories verifying operational performance, accuracy, latency and alert management

Benefits include standardized test methods, improved interoperability, robust alerting and consistent navigational information-supporting safer, IMO-compliant vessel operations.

Related standards and references

• IMO Resolution MSC.252(83) and MSC.452(99) (as amended)
• IMO Resolution A.694(17) and associated IEC 60945 requirements

For implementation details, test procedures and required result formats consult the full IEC 61924-2:2021 publication available from the IEC webstore.