Icom has released the IC-M505 VHF marine transceiver with AIS (IC-M505AIS).
Automatic identification system (AIS) is a collision avoidance system that is compulsory on all commercial ships. The transponders used on these vessels typically transmit the vessel’s name, speed/heading and MMSI number.
The unit receives this information from ships within VHF radio range and displays the information on a chart plotter or PC.
Small craft can now use this information to alter course and avoid potentially disastrous situations while hailing the ship by name.