The present document specifies the minimum requirements for shipborne radio transmitters and receivers for fixed installations operating in the VHF frequency bands between 156 MHz and 174 MHz allocated to the maritime mobile service, using both 25 kHz and 12,5 kHz channels and capable of Radiotelephony and Digital Selective Calling communications within the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System. The present document incorporates the requirements of the relevant resolutions of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and is primarily intended to specify equipment suitable for fitting to ships subject to the SOLAS Convention and complying with the Council Directive 96/98/EC of 20 December 1996 on marine equipment as amended (the European Marine Equipment Directive).