ACR Pushes Wider Recognition of Electronic Distress Flares

Electronic signalling in the spotlight

ACR Electronics and sister brand Ocean Signal have called for wider international recognition of electronic visual distress signalling devices. Their June 2026 statement follows changes to the US Coast Guard’s own flare arrangements aboard its cutters.

The initiative addresses a long-standing question of how vessels signal visually during emergencies. It is an industry advocacy position, not a new global law that removes pyrotechnic carriage requirements everywhere.

Different jurisdictions, different rules

ACR points to the RTCM performance standard and the acceptance of approved electronic alternatives for certain recreational vessels in the United States and Canada. Other countries and convention-governed vessel categories may continue to require pyrotechnic signals.

A superyacht’s obligations depend on its flag, vessel type, cruising area and safety certification. Captains should confirm what their actual regulations permit before removing existing equipment.

Why suppliers favour a transition

Electronic devices avoid some of the storage, expiry and disposal issues associated with traditional pyrotechnics. ACR argues that they can offer longer-lasting signalling within an approved configuration.

Equipment still requires attention to batteries, maintenance, readiness and visibility. Electronic signalling should be considered alongside radio, EPIRB and other approved distress arrangements, not as an automatic replacement for all of them.

A checklist for the bridge

A yacht manager reviewing its safety inventory should compare the certified device with current flag-state and port-state requirements. Crew training should cover how and when each signalling method is used.

The original ACR article and its distress-equipment image document the manufacturer’s advocacy. Specific legal carriage advice must come from the appropriate maritime authority.