Maritime radio communication frequencies are primarily categorized into five types:
Medium Frequencies (MF): Used for offshore and coastal communication, with a frequency range of 0.3 to 3.0 MHz. Primarily utilized for initiating calls and for safety and traffic communication.
High Frequencies (HF): Used for long-distance transmission, with a frequency range of 3.0 to 30 MHz. Primarily utilized for global communication and emergency calls.
Very High Frequencies (VHF): Used for offshore and coastal communication, with a frequency range of 30 to 300 MHz. Primarily utilized for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communication.
Ultra High Frequencies (UHF): Used for short-range and high-data-rate communication, with a frequency range of 300 MHz to 3 GHz. Primarily utilized for radar and navigation.
Satellite Communication Frequencies: Used for global and regional communication; these primarily include GMDSS frequencies, with a frequency range of 1.6 GHz.
