What size vessels are required to have a second independent radar?

The requirement for a second independent radar system is significant for vessels that meet certain gross tonnage criteria. For vessels of 10,000 gross tons (GT) or more, having a second independent radar is essential to ensure enhanced navigational safety. This secondary radar enhances situational awareness and redundancy, allowing for continuous tracking of other vessels and navigation aids, especially in congested waterways or poor visibility conditions.

The regulation is designed to mitigate risks of collision and improve overall maritime safety, reflecting the understanding that larger vessels, due to their size and operational complexity, require more robust navigational aids. In essence, vessels above this threshold are mandated to have an additional means of radar detection to support their navigation in various conditions.