On August 5th 2003, INTRACOM (jointly with Lockheed Martin as its main partner) signed a new contract with the Greek Ministry of Mercantile Marine, budgeted at 5.8 million euros, for the extension of the National Vessel Traffic Management Information System (VTMIS). This extension involves the development of the Port of Rafina VTS center and the Port of Lavrio RTS center for the management of vessel traffic in the areas of Petalioi Bay and Makronisos Straight, as well as the wider area between Evia, Attica, Kea island, and Andros island.

This area will be covered by means of four (4) RADAR sensor stations in Evia, Lavrio, Andros and Kea. In addition, the Hellenic Harbour Guard personnel will undergo proper training, while the new centers will be interconnected to the National VTMI system, installed at the Ministry of Mercantile Marine facilities in Piraeus.

The project in question is incorporated within the wider effort to upgrade the role of the Ministry of Mercantile Marine in the area of marine security and port competitiveness. It also constitutes the first step towards extension of the system for wider coverage of Greek waters.

The overall system aims at improving the effectiveness of marine transportations, at shipping security and the protection of marine environment. Especially the Port of Rafina VTS and the Port of Lavrio RTS centers are expected to cater for the country?s essential needs in view of the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.