In cooperation between the Minister of Shipping and Island Policy Vasilis Kikilias and the Deputy Minister of National Economy and Finance Nikos Papathanasis, the decision for the inclusion of the Project Expansion, Upgrade and Modernization of the National Maritime Traffic Management System -VTMIS- and Information, in the sectoral NSRF Program “Transport 2021-2027”, with the Hellenic Coast Guard Headquarters/ Directorate of Navigation Safety as beneficiary, and a total public expenditure of €62,245,000. was approved and signed by Mr. Papathanasis.
As noted in the relevant announcement, the Project will be implemented in accordance with the guidelines of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the applicable recommendations of the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA).
The upgraded system will provide monitoring, control and regulation capabilities for maritime traffic in real time, contributing to the improvement of navigation safety, the effectiveness of Search and Rescue operations, and the protection of the marine environment.
The upgrade of seven existing Centers for maritime traffic control is envisaged at the ports of Piraeus, Rafina, Lavrio, Patras, Antirrio, Corfu and Igoumenitsa, as well as the creation of three new corresponding Centers in Thessaloniki, Elefsina and Neapoli Voion.
The new infrastructure is based on an open and scalable architecture, ensuring the possibility of future expansions, the integration of new technologies, and interconnection with existing or future national and international maritime traffic management and maritime surveillance systems, in accordance with interoperability and data exchange requirements.