NMEA recognition for a core safety device
The National Marine Electronics Association selected the Icom IC-M510 EVO as its 2026 Product of Excellence winner in the VHF Radio category. Unlike many convenience-focused electronics, a fixed VHF remains part of the yacht’s fundamental communications and safety equipment, so reliability and straightforward operation carry particular weight.
NMEA awards are voted on by association members and certified installers who work with equipment across many vessel types. Their choice therefore provides a useful professional signal for owners comparing radios that can appear very similar when viewed only through specification sheets and showroom displays.
Class-D DSC sits alongside modern networking
The IC-M510 EVO incorporates Class-D Digital Selective Calling and built-in NMEA 2000 connectivity. The NMEA network allows the radio to exchange information with compatible multifunction displays and other equipment, while DSC provides a structured method for distress and selective calling when the vessel is correctly configured with its maritime identity.
Icom has also built Wi-Fi functionality into the radio so a smart device can be used for remote operation. That can be useful on yachts with several outdoor living areas because the person responsible for communications does not always have to remain directly beside the fixed radio at the main helm.
A hailer expands the radio’s onboard role
The radio includes a 25-watt two-way hailer and a 20-watt receive hailer, extending its usefulness beyond normal ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore voice calls. On a larger leisure yacht, a hailer can support communication during docking or close manoeuvring when crew members are positioned away from the helm.
The unit also uses a colour display and includes navigation-related functions, while Icom notes that the design has received an iF design award. Those features matter because safety equipment still has to be readable and intuitive when the operator is tired, under pressure or dealing with poor weather.
What the award means for a yacht refit
A VHF radio is rarely the most glamorous part of an electronics refit, but it is one of the systems an owner may depend on when circumstances are least forgiving. The NMEA award gives the IC-M510 EVO independent recognition at a time when network integration is becoming standard even for traditional communications equipment.
For sub-24-metre yachts, the attraction is the combination of familiar fixed-radio operation with functions that can spread communication around the boat. Owners still need professional installation, correct antenna placement and DSC programming, because sophisticated controls cannot compensate for a poorly commissioned radio system.
Official sources: www.nmea.org; www.icomamerica.com.
