The International Maritime Organization's Maritime Safety Committee met for its 111th session from 13 to 22 May 2026 in London, United Kingdom. The meeting was chaired by Mr. Theofilos Mozas of Greece. Key outcomes are outlined below, with full meeting summary to follow.

First global code for autonomous ships

IMO adopted a new International Code of Safety for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS Code) to support the safe integration of AI-enabled and remotely operated commercial ships into global shipping. 

The MASS Code sets out a comprehensive, goal-based framework to ensure that remotely controlled or autonomous ships are designed and operated to a level of safety, security and environmental protection that is expected of a conventional ship. They will also be required to comply with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and other applicable mandatory IMO instruments.The MASS Code introduces new requirements for the design, approval and operation of these ships, including in key areas such as navigation, connectivity, remote operations, fire safety, and search and rescue.

The Code applies to cargo ships* and will take effect from 1 July 2026. 

Situation in the Strait of Hormuz

The Committee adopted a resolution requesting the support of IMO Member States for the Secretary-General's ongoing efforts to facilitate the safe evacuation of ships and seafarers trapped in the Persian Gulf.The Committee requested the Secretary-General to closely monitor the situation and provide regular updates to Member States and relevant IMO bodies.

Guidelines for ships using alternative fuels 

The Committee continued work on the safety regulatory framework for ships using new technologies and alternative fuels. It approved new Interim guidelines for use of ammonia cargo as fuel, to support the safe design, construction and operation of ships carrying and using ammonia as fuel.

Improving security of ship communications through VDES

The Committee adopted a resolution to introduce the VHF data exchange system (VDES) into the IMO regulatory framework, as an alternative to the current AIS tracking system current required of ships. The new regulations are expected to enter into force on 1 January 2028.

VDES is a more advanced version of AIS that allows ships and coastal authorities to send and receive more data, more quickly and more securely. VDES is designed to make ship tracking more secure by adding authentication, helping to reduce the risk of spoofing.