Overview
IEC 63135:2018 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that defines the operational and performance requirements for Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) specifically designed for Search and Rescue (SAR) airborne equipment. This standard establishes essential criteria for the AIS VHF Data Link (VDL) components of SAR airborne stations, including methods of testing and the required test results to ensure compliance.
The document aligns with the technical specifications outlined in ITU-R Recommendation M.1371 and incorporates relevant provisions from the ITU Radio Regulations. It also sets minimum standards for interface compatibility with other onboard equipment used for data input and display. However, additional requirements for airborne systems beyond AIS specifics may apply and are outside the scope of this document.
Key Topics
- Operational Requirements: Defines the functional capabilities and modes of operation for AIS SAR airborne stations, including autonomous and polled modes, transmission retries, and broadcast operations.
- Performance Criteria:
- Composition of AIS stations
- Reliable time and position data referencing, primarily through UTC and other position sources
- User interface requirements for effective monitoring and control
- Identification and information management with defined reporting intervals and station capacities
- Technical Specifications:
- Detailed transmitter and receiver parameters covering frequency, power, modulation accuracy, and interference rejection
- Physical, link, network, transport, and presentation layers ensuring robust communication
- Built-in test equipment functionality and alarm messaging systems for system integrity and fallback arrangements
- Testing Procedures:
- Standard and extreme environmental test conditions applicable to airborne systems
- Defined test signals for validating time-division multiple access (TDMA) performance and data link reliability
- Power supply, safety, and operational tests to confirm performance under variable conditions
- Methods for measuring transmitter frequency stability, power output, modulation, and receiver sensitivity
Applications
IEC 63135:2018 is fundamental for manufacturers, marine regulators, and service providers involved in the design, production, and certification of AIS equipment installed on SAR airborne platforms such as rescue helicopters and fixed-wing search aircraft. Applications include:
- Enhancing maritime search and rescue operations by ensuring reliable AIS transmissions from airborne SAR units.
- Supporting interoperability of AIS SAR airborne stations with maritime and coastal AIS infrastructure to improve real-time vessel tracking and safety.
- Enabling compliance with international maritime regulations and communication protocols for airborne AIS devices.
- Assisting test laboratories and certification bodies in conducting standardized performance validation and compliance testing.
- Facilitating system integration through standardized interfaces to other onboard navigation and communication equipment.
Related Standards
For comprehensive guidance, IEC 63135:2018 should be used in conjunction with related international standards and recommendations, including:
- ITU-R M.1371: Recommendation outlining the technical characteristics for AIS transponders.
- ITU Radio Regulations: Governing radiocommunication services and frequencies, essential for AIS VHF data link operations.
- IEC 62287-series: Standards for AIS Class A and Class B devices on vessels.
- IEC 60945: General requirements for maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment, especially regarding environmental and electrical tests.
- IMO SOLAS Convention Regulations: Maritime safety regulations mandating AIS equipment performance and carriage.
Complying with IEC 63135:2018 ensures the robust and effective operation of AIS SAR airborne equipment, which is critical to ensuring timely and coordinated maritime search and rescue missions worldwide. This standard promotes safety, interoperability, and high-quality performance in maritime navigation and radiocommunication systems.