Sub-Committee on Navigation, Communications and Search and Rescue (NCSR) considers matters related to safe navigation, distress, search and rescue (SAR) and communication operations. The range of its scope covers ships’ routeing measures, ship reporting systems, the long-range identification and tracking (LRIT) system, e-navigation and carriage requirements and performance standards for navigational and communication equipment. In term of Search and Rescue (SAR), the Sub-committee deals with the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) and service providers. With the advancement of information and communication technologies (ICT), the body strives to provide the most appropriate communications standards to the global maritime sector.
The utmost profound connection with NSCR and maritime workers is that this sub-committee is a distinctive technical body which deals with shipboard operations responsibilities and human life at sea under emergency situations. The ITF should also acknowledge that rapid development and introduction of advanced technologies for such operations on board should happen to improve safety on board as well as for environmental protection. The ITF ensures that the minimum requirements are kept at the most stringent level as possible.