The Baltic Sea is one of the world’s most significant maritime regions, with dense traffic and the transportation of hazardous cargoes. This congestion poses substantial risks to navigational safety, highlighting the need for advanced digital solutions.

Maritime digitalization is advancing rapidly, particularly with IMO’s decision to approve the new ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System) performance standards, which will allow ships to receive real-time digital information directly into their ECDIS. While this shift will enhance decision-making by providing more accurate and timely data to support navigators, it also presents challenges for maritime authorities and service providers tasked with implementing these new digital services in the future.

The MaDaMe project is a forerunner in the service development work. The project focuses on developing, piloting, and evaluating new digital information-sharing and messaging services based on the IHO S-100 framework. The three key services developed in the project are Digital Navigational Warnings, providing timely and accurate warnings to mariners, Digital Aids to Navigation, offering real time information on Aids to Navigation, and Digital VTS Traffic Clearance, facilitating two-way communication for efficient traffic management in the VTS areas.

Pilots are conducted in Denmark, Finland, and Poland, testing end-to-end services between shore-based authorities and vessels. The MCP (Maritime Connectivity Platform) and SECOM (Secure communication between ship and shore) are key technologies used to ensure cyber-secure, reliable, and efficient data transfer. Insights from the pilots will offer valuable information for the ongoing international standardization work of IHO, IALA, and other international bodies. The global standards ensure the interoperability of the equipment and systems required for implementing the digital e-navigation services around the world.

MaDaMe envisions a future with safer, more efficient maritime traffic management, supported by advanced digital services. With the support of Interreg funding, the project aims to create functioning end-to-end digital solutions, and a lasting impact on maritime practices and safety.