The automatic identification system (AIS) is an automatic tracking system used for collision avoidance on ships and by vessel traffic services (VTS). AIS data of the Mediterranean Member States are shared through a regional sever called MARE∑. The sharing of information enables an efficient vessel traffic monitoring in the region. A study conducted within the context of the current Project has revealed that some of the Beneficiaries have no AIS national network devoted to maritime traffic monitoring except   for military purposes. The study has also indicated the number of base stations and nodes needed as well as their best position to get a good coverage of the Beneficiaries’ coastline.  

Under the current Project, it is planned to provide the needed AIS stations to the Beneficiaries. The countries will be enabled to share their maritime traffic information with the EU and non-EU Members States participating in MARE∑ with an enhanced monitoring of the maritime traffic in the Mediterranean Sea and in an enhanced cooperation between the Mediterranean coastal States on maritime traffic monitoring.