Norcontrol IT Wins UK AIS Network Contract

The Maritime & Coastguard Agency has awarded Norcontrol IT a contract for the UK AIS Network. This announcement follows Norcontrol IT's involvement in a successful AIS network trial that took place during 2003/2004, with the goal of testing hardware and software components prior to the full installation of the UK AIS network.
Norcontrol IT recently released the third generation of its AIS network infrastructure software, which will form the basis of the UK AIS network.
AIS data will be displayed in near real-time on fifty (50) Operator Workstations at the MCA's Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centres located throughout the UK. Fast response speed is essential in order that the Operator Workstations provide the required level of situational awareness of the maritime domain to enable Coastguard personnel to interact with vessels. Additionally, the system provides the functionality to provide early warnings based on AIS data, so that operators are advised of potential conflicts and contraventions.
Norcontrol IT will create a highly distributed network, ensuring that the data can be disseminated throughout various governmental organisations. The AIS Network will also feature a database solution for traffic analysis & civil hydrography.
Implementation of the UK AIS Network has begun and is due for completion in early 2006.