The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO)-Singapore Innovation and Technology Laboratory (IHO-Singapore Lab) is conducting trials of next generation IHO S-100 standards and dual format Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs) [1] on a prototype S-100 Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) [2] aboard the Italian Navy's training ship, AMERIGO VESPUCCI. This is also known as the “Dual Fuel” mode within the international hydrographic community, where S-100 ECDIS supports both current S-57 and new S-101 ENC formats. 

2.​This trial marks the first time that the dual format mode is used for navigation in the Malacca and Singapore Straits. Trials will include testing the accurate encoding and display of S-57 and S-100 ENCs on a S-100 ECDIS, as well as the wireless update of charts while at sea.

3.​ The S-100 data framework, currently under development by the IHO, is a set of standards designed to support the development of digital products and services forthe hydrographic, maritime and geospatial communities [3]. This data framework will enable ENCs, bathymetric data, and other real-time maritime information to be integrated seamlessly, enabling informed decision-making at sea.

4.​The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set a timeline for the transition to S-100 ECDIS, with optional installation of S-100 ECDIS [4] from 1 January 2026, and mandatory installation from 1 January 2029. To ensure a smooth transitionas well as compliance with IMO and IHO requirements, S-100 ECDIS must be compatible with both existing S-57 and upcoming S-101 ENC formats. 

 5.​The IHO-Singapore Lab project to test the dual format mode commenced in January 2024. The project is supported by the hydrographic offices of Australia, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, as well as industry stakeholders. The project underscores the region’s commitment to navigational safety in one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, aligning with global initiatives to advance the development of international maritime hydrographic standards.

6.​Dr Parry Oei, Advisor (Hydrographic), Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore and General Manager of IHO-Singapore Lab, said "This project is a significant step towards translating written standards into practical application. It allows us to test and improve the upcoming standards before full implementation. The success of this initiative relies on the collaboration of various stakeholders, from hydrographic offices providing data, to software companies offering the latest tools, and mariners sharing practical insights. We are grateful for everyone's involvement in this important work as we strive to operationalise the series of S-100-based products across the maritime industry.”

7.​Rear Admiral Massimiliano Nannini, Director of the Italian Navy Hydrographic Institute, said: “As the AMERIGO VESPUCCI proceeds with this historiccircumnavigation, we stand at a pivotal moment in the evolution of maritime navigation. Our Institute, thanks to the collaboration with all the project partners, has been at the forefront of testing cutting-edge electronic charting technologies. We are eager to proceed with this trial in the Malacca and Singapore Straits and we will be very proud, in the near future, to conclude testing of the Italian cells in the final leg of the Vespucci world tour.”

[1] Standardised digital charts which contain information necessary for safe maritime navigation.

[2] A digital system installed on vessels to display ENCs and integrate real-time data such as the vessel’s location, speed, and the movement of nearby vessels.

[3] For more information on the IHO S-100 framework, please visit https://iho.int/en/introduction-0.

[4] Refer to MSC.530(106).