Coast Guard releases work draft on automatic ID system

The Coast Guard released Dec. 27 a draft statement of work and performance specification to solicit systems integration and technical support services for the second phase of its Nationwide Automatic Identification System.The system is designed to detect, identify, monitor and track vessels equipped with international-standard Automatic Identification System (AIS) technology. It will also report relevant security data that could affect the United States’ safety, economy or environment.The NAIS will consist of AIS components such as base station transceivers and antennas, data storage and processing, and networking infrastructure.AIS message data will be transmitted to system components over a wide-area network and diverse, remote sites using leased analog circuits and microwave facilities.The Coast Guard is implementing the system in three stages.Phase 1, which is already in development, will give critical ports and coastal areas the ability to receive AIS messages.Phase 2 will expand the capability and coverage of AIS deployed in Phase 1. It will also make it possible to receive AIS messages within 50 nautical miles of the baseline and transmit AIS messages to vessels within 24 nautical miles of the baseline.The Coast Guard is seeking industry comments regarding the draft statement.