I-VMS Urgent Update

Update - 22 January 2026:

It has been six months since Succorfish ceased transmitting I-VMS data to the UK VMS Hub from its SC2 devices.

MMO has continued to engage with Succorfish to seek a resolution but to date, has been unable to agree a way forward that is acceptable to both parties. 

We recognise this puts fishermen in a difficult position and reiterate our assurances that MMO will continue to be measured in our approach to the enforcement of I-VMS. 

Steps you can take 

This interim advice is to support fishermen depending on their circumstances.

• Fishermen with SC2 devices

Consider the contractual arrangements you have with your supplier, and whether the obligation of transmitting data to the VMS Hub is being met. If you decide not to renew your airtime contract at this time, we request that you keep your device switched on.     

• Fishermen without an I-VMS device

There are two type-approved I-VMS devices – the Nemo (CLS UK (Fulcrum Maritime Ltd)*) and the SC2 (Succorfish). At this time, only one device is transmitting data to the UK VMS Hub which is a requirement under the I-VMS licence condition. Those who have yet to purchase a device might wish to take this into account when considering which device to purchase and install. 

• Fishermen with Nemo devices

Continue to operate as normal, including having devices switched on and transmitting positional data while at sea. The ongoing transmission of data from Nemo devices has proven valuable as we test and refine our systems and processes in preparation for I-VMS becoming a mandatory requirement. 

Note: MMO does not have sight of, and is not party to, contractual arrangements between suppliers and fishermen.   

Rewire devices

We are aware that since our last update in September 2025, Devon & Severn IFCA has now installed Rewire devices on vessels fishing in their district.

Please note: these devices are not type-approved and do not meet the requirements of the I-VMS licence conditions (or proposed legislation). Data collected by Rewire devices is not shared with or used by MMO and not a part of the MMO I-VMS programme. 

Future updates

MMO is committed to the I-VMS programme and does not intend to pause the roll-out indefinitely. We apologise for the delay in our updates on this matter and will update you again within the next month. 

We thank fishermen for their ongoing patience and cooperation.

*Previously named Fulcrum Maritime Systems Ltd

Update - 25 September 2025:

MMO is aware that on 19 September, Devon & Severn IFCA (DSIFCA) announced plans to introduce ReWire devices to fishers in its district. We understand this is a temporary measure to address the ceasing of data transmissions from Succorfish SC2 I-VMS devices to the UK VMS Hub.

The use of ReWire devices is specific to fishers currently affected by these suspended data transmissions, within the DSIFCA district, to obtain positional information required under their bylaw and ensure fishers can be compliant.

We are in discussion with DSIFCA about the technical elements of introducing these devices, including the use of the data. We are also aware that other IFCAs with byelaws or permit requirements may also be exploring temporary options.

Fishers should contact their IFCA directly for further information.

Meanwhile, MMO continues to work with Succorfish to resolve this matter and would like to thank fishers for their patience while we do so.

All fishers should continue to operate as normal, including having their type-approved I-VMS devices switched on and transmitting positional data while at sea. Data transmissions by the Succorfish SC2 devices will still reach the supplier’s server.

Our measured approach to enforcement of the licence condition remains in place at this time.

We will issue another update to this page and on the I-VMS guidance page on GOV.UK when more information is available.

If you have any questions, please contact the I-VMS Help Desk at ivms@marinemanagement.org.uk or 01900 508618. Phone lines are open Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm.

Update - 12 August 2025:

Marine Management Organisation (MMO) is aware that Succorfish is no longer transmitting I-VMS data to the UK VMS Hub. This is preventing MMO from receiving positional data from under-12m vessels using Succorfish type-approved I-VMS devices.

MMO remains fully committed to the I-VMS programme and has worked closely with suppliers on both the roll-out and ongoing support of this service. There is, however, an expectation that suppliers continue to meet the requirements of their I-VMS type approval, including adherence to agreed performance standards. The onward transmission of data to the UK VMS Hub is a fundamental and integral part of this type approval, and we are disappointed Succorfish has taken this course of action.

We are working with the supplier to resolve this issue as quickly as possible, and we thank fishers for their patience during this period. Those using Succorfish units should continue to operate as normal, including having their I-VMS devices switched on and transmitting positional data while at sea. We will provide a further update in due course.