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2026 RTCM Assembly & Conference

Innovation At Sea — Building Resilient and Connected Maritime Systems

May 4–8, 2026 | Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach, Florida

Since its founding in 1947, the Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services (RTCM) has been at the forefront of advancing maritime communications and navigation standards. Originally established to develop recommendations for marine radio equipment, RTCM has grown into a global leader shaping technologies that enhance safety at sea—from pioneering work on GMDSS and AIS to modern standards for GNSS, emergency beacons, and electronic chart systems. For nearly eight decades, RTCM has united regulators, manufacturers, and mariners to ensure interoperability and resilience in an ever-changing maritime environment. Joining the 2026 Assembly means becoming part of this rich tradition of collaboration and innovation.

The program featured presentations and workshops or panels from leading technical authorities, key government professionals, and industry representatives shaping the future of maritime electronic systems. Topics spanned satellite and terrestrial communications, shipboard and shoreside electronics, autonomous systems, PNT (Position, Navigation and Timing) and evolving technical standards and policy issues.

  • Dynamic Sessions: Presentations, workshops, and panels led by key stakeholders, including  representatives from maritime communications and navigation industry, experts, regulators,  technology innovators, and mariners.
  • Topics:
    • DGNSS Advances, Jamming, Spoofing, and Standards
    • Satellite Technology and Future in Safety Communications
    • Radar SARTs
    • New Opportunities for the delivery of Marine Safety Information
    • Regulatory and NGO Updates
    • Cruise industry and local port initiatives
    • GMDSS Task Force and RTCM Special Committee Open Meetings
    • The Beacon Manufacturer Workshop (BMW) – reports and initiatives in 406 MHz Emergency Beacons


The RTCM Assembly & Conference is more than a technical meeting—it’s a gateway to the heart of maritime innovation. By attending, you’ll gain firsthand insight into emerging standards, regulatory trends, and disruptive technologies shaping global maritime communication and navigation systems. It’s an opportunity to connect with industry experts and RTCM member companies to learn how the organization shapes U.S. and international policy, and contribute to the development of solutions that keep mariners safe and connected. Whether you’re a manufacturer, operator, regulator, or technologist, this is your chance to build relationships, exchange ideas, and become part of RTCM’s collaborative network that has driven maritime progress for nearly 80 years. 

Two Events, One Week!

In a special collaboration, IALA’s Digital@Sea North America Conference was held May 6–7, during the same week—making this a truly packed and powerful event.  The focus was on digitalization, spanning the topics of:

  • S-100 rollout and implementation
  • Future of Navigation in Polar Waters
  • Charts, Maritime Safety Information, and Maritime Services Delivery