Simrad RS20S Fixed Mount VHF Radio with Built‑In GPS and Buddy Track

The Simrad RS20S Fixed Mount VHF Radio is a compact, purpose‑built marine communications hub designed for front‑mount installations and modern glass‑bridge helm layouts. With its low‑profile silhouette and rugged reliability, it keeps helm conversations clear while seamlessly sharing location data across onboard electronics. This is more than a radio—it’s a centralized safety and coordination tool for everyday boating and offshore adventures.

Built‑in GPS, smart networking, and precise location sharing

At the core, the RS20S integrates a built‑in GPS receiver (with an optional SMA GPS antenna for challenging installations). The GPS data feeds DSC calls and real‑time position reporting, and can be shared over NMEA2000 with Simrad MFDs and compatible gear. That means your chart plotter and navigation systems stay aligned with your vessel’s exact position, helping you make informed decisions in crowded harbors or open seas.

Advanced safety and clear, reliable communication

Beyond voice, the RS20S supports Class D DSC and enhanced DSE features that improve position reporting when Lat/Long requests are made. In an emergency, you can transmit your vessel’s position quickly and accurately, with automatic location sharing to responders. The built‑in country channel banks simplify region‑specific operations, while a dedicated emergency channel key provides fast access when minutes matter most.

Buddy Track: hands‑free deck awareness

New to this class of radio, Buddy Track automatically polls a list of MMSIs to request the position of other VHF radios. You can track up to five buddy vessels and display their Lat/Long on your chart plotter. Adjustable polling intervals (1, 5, 15, 30, or 60 minutes) let you balance situational awareness with power efficiency—ideal for planned rendezvous, convoy passages, or coordinating support during offshore legs.

Front‑mount design, easy installation

The RS20S is engineered for front‑mount installations, making it a natural fit where rear access is limited. Its compact, rugged chassis sits neatly with helm displays and glass‑bridge components. The included gimbal bracket supports multiple mounting options—table‑top, bulkhead, or overhead—so you can preserve the helm’s aesthetic while keeping controls within easy reach.

Performance you can rely on

Choose the right power for the moment: up to 23 W on high for long‑range calls, or ~1 W on low for nearby, private conversations. The RS20S delivers robust listening capabilities that keep you aware of traffic and weather broadcasts, with flexible scanning and a comprehensive set of international channels to cover coastal to offshore operations.

Guided setup and practical workflow

A guided startup wizard walks you through region and country selection, MMSI and call sign programming, GPS source, and time offset—getting you from box to broadcast with minimal guesswork. The radio’s true‑plug‑and‑play workflow means you’ll be communicating quickly, while the system’s NMEA2000 integration ensures it plays nicely with other onboard equipment without extra complexity.

Ideal for whom and how it helps

Perfect for coastal cruisers, weekend sailors, and small to mid‑size vessels that demand dependable VHF communications with integrated positioning data. If you value a clean helm aesthetic, front‑mounted convenience, and a radio that acts as a central safety and coordination node, the RS20S helps you stay connected, coordinated, and safer on every voyage.

Why this radio stands apart

The RS20S pairs a compact, front‑mounted design with a built‑in GPS and modern safety features, all while enabling seamless data sharing across MFDs through NMEA2000. Buddy Track adds proactive deck awareness, and the guided setup minimizes downtime. It’s a practical, future‑ready choice for helm reliability and integrated marine communications.