S-100 Implementation Planning for the South-West Pacific
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During 12-26 June 2026, IIC Technologies Mr Jonathan Pritchard, assisted in the conduct of an S-100 Implementation, Maintenance and Benefits Realisation Plan (SIMBRP) workshop. The workshop was attended by twenty-four participants representing 13 Pacific Island Countries and hosted in Fiji.
Over the past decade, the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) has developed a new generation of maritime data standards known as S-100. This standard allows for much richer and more dynamic maritime information and products - going well beyond the basic electronic charts that many vessels use today for safe navigation. Through the SWPHC we are planning to bring these new products to the region. But getting this right requires a clear understanding of what the region actually needs, where the priorities should be, and how to ensure that every country benefits equitably.
It is noted that the implementation of S-100 was recently acknowledged by the Sixth Pacific Regional Energy and Transport Ministers Meeting as a critical enabler for the Pacific One Maritime Framework under Strategy 2 – Accelerate the Adoption of Innovative Maritime Technologies.
Funded by IC-ENC, led by the SWPHCs S-100 Coordinator and supported by the @Fiji Hydrographic Service, AUSTRALIAN HYDROGRAPHIC OFFICE, Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand, and IIC Technologies, the SWPHC is developing an S-100 Implementation, Maintenance and Benefits Realisation Plan - the SIMBRP. The workshop is the start to a coordinated, needs-based plan that will set clear priorities for S-100 implementation across the region based on safety, operational, and economic evidence, with the goal that no country is left behind.
The workshop program included:
• analysis of pre-workshop questionnaire
• assessment of current regional baseline data
• understanding challenges and identifying opportunities
• identify regional priorities
• develop regional vision for implementation of S-100
Following the workshop, a first SIMBRP will be produced - a practical, evidence-based plan that will guide the implementation of S-100 products across the region.
This workshop has been an exciting and beneficial activity which will led to important long term outcomes for the SW Pacific. It is considered that this workshop is amongst the first of its kind globally and a model that can be utilised in other IHO Regions that have a similar requirements for a supported and coordinated approach to understanding then embarking on the S-100 transition journey.