AIS-SART

Survival craft locator that transmits a synthetic AIS Class A signal pattern to nearby ship and aircraft AIS receivers.

In practice

AIS-SART mounted in a survival craft transmits a position-and-identifier message every minute on AIS frequencies; appears as an SAR icon on responding-vessel AIS displays out to 10 nm. Battery 5 years standby; replace at expiry.

Regulatory detail & full definition

Replaces the older 9 GHz radar SART on many newer LSA. Transmits 8 burst messages per minute, marked as 'AIS SART ACTIVE' on receiver displays, with an SRR (Search and Rescue Region) prefix MMSI. Range to a typical bridge AIS antenna ~12 NM. Some flag states allow either or both.

Authoritative source: SOLAS Chapter III (Life-saving appliances) ↗

Basic Safety Training
Emergency Escape Breathing Device
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon
Fire Safety Systems Code
Life-Saving Appliances Code

Source: SOLAS Ch. III; IEC 61097-14

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AIS-SART

In practice

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AIS-SART

In practice

Related