When a ship needs help
GMDSS brings several communication methods together so distress information can reach the right people.
In 30 seconds
- Satellite and terrestrial radio play complementary roles.
- Distress alerting and maritime safety information have different purposes.
- Ordinary Internet access is not a substitute for approved safety communications.
Make it concrete
Draw two paths from a ship to shore. Ask what happens if one path is unavailable. This is a resilience exercise, not a distress-call procedure.
- 01Ship
- 02Radio / satellite
- 03Shore
Check your understanding
Does working Wi-Fi prove that the ship’s distress system is ready?
- Satellite and terrestrial radio play complementary roles.
- Distress alerting and maritime safety information have different purposes.
- Ordinary Internet access is not a substitute for approved safety communications.
Go to the source
Sources reviewed: 13.09.2026