AIS-SART

An AIS Search and Rescue Transmitter (AIS-SART) is a self-contained, float-free survival device that, when activated, transmits AIS Class A compatible position reports on AIS channels 87B (161.975 MHz) and 88B (162.025 MHz). The device incorporates an internal GNSS receiver to determine its position and transmits this information at one-second intervals, allowing any vessel or SAR aircraft equipped with an AIS receiver to plot the survivor's location on an ECDIS, chart plotter, or AIS display. All AIS-SARTs are allocated MMSIs beginning with the prefix 970, as defined in ITU-R Recommendation M.1371, enabling AIS displays to flag the target as a distress beacon rather than a navigating vessel. The device transmits at a power level lower than a standard Class A transponder but sufficient for detection at several nautical miles in typical conditions. IMO Performance Standards for AIS-SARTs are set out in IMO Resolution MSC.246(83). Whilst AIS-SARTs may be accepted as an alternative to Radar SARTs under SOLAS Chapter III, their use depends on the receiving capability of vessels in the area; Radar SARTs remain valuable where AIS watch-keeping may be incomplete. Battery endurance requirements are not less than 96 hours standby followed by 8 hours continuous transmission.