I-VMS Urgent Update
Source: gov.uk (2025-09-25)

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

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 (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/inshore-vessel-monitoring-i-vms-for-under-12m-fishing-vessels-registered-in-england) on GOV.UK when more information is available.

If you have any questions, please contact the I-VMS Help Desk (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/inshore-vessel-monitoring-i-vms-for-under-12m-fishing-vessels-registered-in-england#contact-us) at xxx@xxx.xx (mailto:xxx@xxx.xx) or xx-xxxx-xxxx. 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.