LRIT

It has global satellite coverage.

Iridium satellite that provide worldwide coverage, including Sea area A4 (which is not covered by INMARSAT).

• AIS is a broadcast system and data is available to all receiver within the range, whereas LRIT data is only available to authorized receiver.
• AIS operates in the VHF range by line of sight and therefore has a local overage only, whereas LRIT is a satellite based system and therefore has a worldwide coverage.
• AIS is used for navigation as an anti-collision aid, whereas LRIT is used for maritime security and awareness.
• AIS data is public and anyone can see the data, whereas LRIT data is secured and own by flag state and can be provided to authorized receivers on request.
• AIS data is not stored by any organisation, whereas LRIT data is stored and available on demand.
• AIS information is free of cost, whereas LRIT information must be purchased except own flag & SAR services.
• AIS have a display unit on board, whereas LRIT does not have any display.