A VDR (Voyage Data Recorder) is shipborne version of "black box" used for aircraft. It records conversations at the navigation bridge, VHF radio communication, speed, course and other information on the ship's condition for 12 hours. Installation of VDR became mandatory by the amendments made to the SOLAS Convention (MSC.99(73)) to the following ships:

(Matters already decided)

(a) New ships (ships constructed on or after 1 July 2002)
I) Passenger ships engaged on international voyages
ii) Cargo ships of 3000 gt and over engaged on international voyages.
(b) Existing ships
I) Roro passenger ships engaged on international voyages - to be fitted not later than the first survey on or after 1 July 2002.
Ii) Passenger ships other than Roro passenger ships to be fitted with not later than 1 January 2004

(Matters for future consideration)

Application to existing cargo ship will be further considered by IMO's NAV Sub-Committee in accordance with Resolution MSC. 109(73).

The NAV Sub-Committee held in July 2001, instructed its technical working group to carry out feasibility study on the requiring installation of VDR on board existing cargo ships. The outcome of the study will be reproted to the Sub-Committee's next session scheduled in July 2002.

The NAV Sub-Committee is requested to conclude by 1 January 2004, and subsequently, the matter will be taken up by its senior body, I.e., the Maritime Safety Committee, where final decision will be made as to the amendments to the SOLAS convention be made.


Attachments: - Resolution MSC.109(73)
- SOLAS Regulation V/20 (entering into force on 1 July 2002)

Department in charge: External Affairs Division
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