In a world of advancing technologies, where cell phones have the processing power of computers, radio can feel a bit antiquated. That is, of course, until you are hundreds of miles out at sea looking to communicate with local vessel traffic or in need of assistance. That’s where the Registry’s Radio Team plays an important, often unseen, role.
Naresh Santram, Vice President, Radio and his team of six handle fleetwide compliance with Global Maritime Distress and Safety Systems (GMDSSs), all radio station licenses, compliance with Long Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) regulations, dispensations for defective and non-operational GMDSS equipment prior to port State control inspections, as well as distress alerts and alarms for the RMI fleet, and coordination with joint rescue centers worldwide.
“Radio feels like an old-fashioned word, but, we encompass some of the most cutting-edge areas of satellite communication and tracking. We are constantly adapting to the modernization and digitalization of communication on ships,” Naresh said. “Reston is our headquarters, but with more than 5,400 RMI-flagged vessels on the water, we have Radio representatives in Mumbai and Manila to ensure we always have someone available to service our clients or handle emergency distress calls,” he continued.
Naresh started his career as a Radio Officer, Third Mate, and Electro-Technical Officer on board crude oil tankers and chemical carriers. He later moved to technical positions with V.Ships USA LLC in Miami. In 2006, he joined IRI as a Maritime Radio & Communications Specialist and was promoted to Vice President, Radio in 2012.
Tracking the RMI fleet via LRIT links the Radio team with several other fleet operations and technical support teams across the world.
“We are fortunate to work closely with our fleet operations team to help them schedule inspections, as well as our regional offices, which often need location and tracking information to confirm sanctions compliance,” said Naresh. “One of the most vital roles we play however, is to locate RMI vessels during distress, urgent, and rescue operations. At these times, our duty officer answers the phone and works closely with joint rescue command centers worldwide. Thankfully most of the distress calls we receive are in error, but we must answer every call as though it is an emergency.”
The rapid pace of technological change has touched the Radio Department, with advanced communication satellite systems falling under forthcoming modernization of the GMDSS system by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
“We’re involved in the development of new requirements and changing regulations at IMO’s annual Navigation, Communication and Search and Rescue (NCSR) annual meeting,” noted Naresh. “Satellite communication continues to evolve and in the near future, we expect all crew members to have access to connectivity – be it internet, cell phone, or satellite everywhere in the world,” he concluded.
