Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) – Definition and Pronunciation
What is MMSI?
MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) is a nine-digit format assigned by the maritime authority to identify a vessel. The first three digits are the code of the country where the vessel is registered as defined by the ITU.
Examples of MMSI
In order to use DSC techniques, the VHF DSC controller must be permanently programmed with a unique nine digit identification number known as a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI).
From “Digital Selective Calling (DSC) Alert Procedures and Protocols”.
Transmission without identification is forbidden. All transmissions should be identified by the vessel’s name, any other identity (if available) or by other means, such as the Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI).
From “Marine VHF Radio – Communication and Emergency”.
One of the advantages of using a 406 MHz emergency beacon is that it is possible to programme it to include the ship’s digital identification number (MMSI) in the message it sends to the satellite.
From “The Essential Guide to Emergency Radio Beacons”.
Pronunciation of MMSI
