Overview of the VHF Data Exchange System

Maritime communications enters a new phase with the finalisation of the first generation of the VHF data exchange system (VDES) and the successor of AIS. VDES comprises a terrestrial and a satellite communication component to serve the whole earth. In this paper, we summarize the final outcomes of the World Radio Conference 2019 which paved the way for the satellite VDE component, the support of VDES R-Mode as a contingency navigation system and the recent final steps towards its confirmation in February 2022 by the ITU. Further, we present the first detailed experience of the terrestrial VDE (VDE-T) system for communication and navigation needs.