IHO-Singapore Lab trials next-gen charting standards aboard Amerigo Vespucci

Trials are underway on a prototype S-100 Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS).

Next-generation IHO S-100 standards and dual-format Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs) are being tested on a prototype S-100 Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS).

This is also known as the “Dual Fuel” mode within the international hydrographic community, where S-100 ECDIS supports both current S-57 and new S-101 ENC formats.

The tests are conducted by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO)-Singapore Innovation and Technology Laboratory (IHO-Singapore Lab). The prototype is aboard the Italian Navy's training ship, AMERIGO VESPUCCI.

IHO’s S-100 data framework supports the development of digital products and services for the hydrographic, maritime, and geospatial communities. It enables the integration of ENCs, bathymetric data, and other real-time maritime information, improving decision-making at sea.

Starting 1 January 2026, stakeholders in the maritime industry can choose to transition to S-100 ECDIS, with mandatory compliance required from 1 January 2029. S-100 ECDIS must be compatible with both the existing S-57 and the upcoming S-101 ENC formats.

The trials began in January, supported by hydrographic offices from Australia, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, the UK, and the US, along with industry stakeholders.

This trial piloted the use of dual-format mode for navigation in the Malacca and Singapore Straits. Trials will include testing the accurate encoding and display of S-57 and S-100 ENCs on an S-100 ECDIS, as well as the wireless update of charts while at sea.