Marine Navigation Systems Testing & Certification Services

Single-source testing solution

Our state-of-the-art labs offer a range of relevant tests, giving you a single-source solution for meeting MED and RED requirements, minimising time to market.

Expert standards insight

Our experts are involved in international advisory boards and standards development activities so you can trust that we have the latest info.

Support for now and the future

Support for current compliance and future readiness such as S-100 transition requirements, helping manufacturers prepare for changing navigation standards.

Digital bridge expertise

Expertise in integrated bridge systems, including GNSS, AIS, radar and communications, helping identify risks across connected technologies.

How TÜV SÜD can help with marine navigation systems testing

TÜV SÜD is accredited to provide a complete marine navigation equipment test and certification service for standards including IEC 62288, EN 302 248, IEC 61174 and IEC 62065. TÜV SÜD BABT is an Approved Body under the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and TÜV SÜD Denmark is an EU Notified Body under the MED and RED. Therefore, we are authorised to evaluate marine equipment for compliance with the requirements of both directives.

As marine navigation systems become increasingly connected, many compliance issues emerge where systems interact. Our independent testing helps manufacturers identify these issues early, reducing approval delays, avoiding costly rework, and preparing products for future ECDIS S-100 requirements.

Phil Evans

Global Focus Segment Manager – Marine, TÜV SÜD

Our marine navigation systems testing and certification services

Maritime navigation equipment test and certification can be a time-consuming process as it follows a complex set of requirements and standards. Our close relationship with TÜV SÜD BABT / TÜV SÜD Denmark means that you will receive a smooth and speedy testing and certification process, with one single point of contact to manage your programme.

TÜV SÜD’s state-of-the-art laboratories and test sites are equipped to carry out a wide range of relevant tests, giving you a single-source solution for meeting Marine Equipment Directive (MED) and Radio Equipment Directive (RED) requirements, which can reduce time to market for your marine products.

Regulatory alignment & test planning

Identification of applicable standards and approval requirements
Alignment with evolving ECDIS and S-100 frameworks
Definition of test strategies based on system complexity

Outcome: Clear path to certification and reduced regulatory risk

Functional & performance testing

Validation of ECDIS functionality and system behaviour
Assessment of navigation data integration
Evaluation of system response under operational scenarios

Outcome: Verified system integrity and performance

Human-machine interface & display testing

Assessment of display performance and usability
Validation of navigation data presentation
Alignment with user interface requirements

Outcome: Improved usability and compliance with display standards

System integration & interoperability

Evaluation of interaction between GNSS, AIS, radar, and sensors
Validation of data exchange across onboard systems
Identification of integration risks and inconsistencies

Outcome: Reduced system-level risk and improved reliability

Future readiness & S-100 transition support

Support for transition to S-100 capable ECDIS
Assessment of system readiness for next-generation data models
Validation of evolving interoperability requirements

Outcome: Long-term alignment with industry evolution

Get started with TÜV SÜD

Talk to us about how our maritime navigation systems testing and certification services can help prevent integration and compliance issues delaying approvals.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Why is navigation system testing important?
Navigation systems testing is important because ECDIS and integrated bridge systems sit at the intersection of multiple technologies.

Without robust testing:
- Integration issues can impact navigation accuracy
- Data inconsistencies can affect situational awareness
- System failures can occur under real-world conditions
Testing and certification help manufacturers:
- Demonstrate compliance with marine navigation standards
- Validate system performance and usability
- Ensure correct integration of multiple data sources
- Reduce risk during approval and vessel deployment
What is ECDIS in marine navigation?
ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems) is a marine navigation system that displays electronic charts and integrates data from multiple onboard systems to support safe vessel navigation.
Why is ECDIS testing required?
ECDIS testing is required because ECDIS systems must demonstrate compliance with regulatory standards before they can be approved for use. Testing ensures the system performs correctly and integrates reliably with other onboard technologies.
What is S-100 and why is it important?

S-100 is the next-generation hydrographic data framework that enables more advanced, data-rich navigation systems. It supports improved situational awareness and future digital maritime services.
How do marine navigation systems interact with other onboard systems?

Marine navigation systems rely on inputs from GNSS, AIS, radar, and other sensors. These data sources must integrate correctly to ensure accurate and reliable navigation.
When should navigation system testing be performed?

Navigation system testing should be performed early in development and continue through integration to ensure compliance and reduce the risk of issues during approval or deployment.
Which regulations apply to maritime navigation systems?
The following regulations apply to maritime navigation systems:
- IEC 62288 – a test standard under the MED which specifies the general requirements, methods of testing, and required test results for the presentation of navigation-related information on shipborne navigational displays
- IEC 61174 – a test standard under the MED which relates to the operational and performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results for ECDIS
- IEC 62065 – a test standard under the MED which specifies the minimum operational and performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results for track control systems
- EN 302 248 – a test standard under the RED which covers navigation radar for use on non-SOLAS vessels
- IEC 62388 – a test standard under the MED which covers navigation radar for use on SOLAS vessels
- IEC 62923 – a test standard under the MED which covers Bridge alert management for use on SOLAS vessels
- IEC 61162 – a test standard series under the MED which covers Digital interfaces for use on SOLAS vessels
- IEC 61924-2 - a test standard under the MED which covers Integrated Navigation Systems for use on SOLAS vessels

Next steps for marine systems testing and certification

Navigation systems are at the centre of modern vessel operations. Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) act as the primary interface for navigation, integrating data from multiple onboard systems to support safe and efficient decision-making.

Manufacturers must transition from legacy systems to S-100 capable ECDIS platforms while managing greater system connectivity, increasing data complexity and interoperability requirements. Marine navigation systems must integrate multiple data sources, such as GNSS, AIS, radar, sensors and other onboard technologies, while maintaining compliance with changing IMO, IEC and IHO standards. To achieve approval, manufacturers must demonstrate that their systems function reliably under operational conditions, integrate correctly with other onboard systems, and support future regulatory requirements.

TÜV SÜD supports manufacturers with testing and certification services that help ensure navigation systems are compliant, reliable, and ready for the next generation of digital maritime operations.

Ready to take the next step?

Don't let interoperability failures or changing standards put approval at risk. Contact our marine navigation systems experts today about your products.

Marine navigation systems testing and certification