![]() Commercial ships use radar equipment that operates in the ‘X’ band (9GHz) and the ‘S’ band (3GHz), each with their own problems and advantages. Detection of other vessels is also affected by external factors including wave and atmospheric conditions. ![]() ![]() They further tasked the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) together with the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) to promulgate guidance on the carriage of radar reflectors to all seafarers but specifically owners and skippers of small recreational craft.ġ.2 The physics of radar detection is a complex subject which depends primarily on the quality and height of the interrogating radar, and the distance, size, shape and aspect of the vessel involved (target). The MAIB commissioned a study by QinetiQ designed to inform yachtsmen of the most appropriate choice of radar reflector for their craft. Their report, published in April 2007 (Report 7/2007), raised several issues including the characteristics of the vessel as a good radar target. The loss of the yacht ‘Ouzo’ and her crew highlighted the potentially fatal consequences of poor radar visibility of small vessels.Īll small craft should consider fitting, where practicable, the most effective and appropriate radar reflector or radar target enhancer (RTE) for their circumstances and ensure those comply with international standards.ġ.1 The loss of the yacht ‘Ouzo’ in August 2006 was investigated by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB). ‘if less than 150 gross tonnage and if practicable, a radar reflector, or other means, to enable detection by ships navigating by radar at both 9 and 3 GHz’. The International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) Safety of Life At Sea convention, 1974 (SOLAS) Chapter V Regulation 19.2.1.7 states that a ship shall have:.
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