What are the characteristics of the Reserve Source of Energy under GMDSS?

Correct Answer: Option D — Must be independent of the ship's electrical system when the RSE is needed to supply power to the GMDSS equipment.

To ensure reliability during a total shipboard blackout, the Reserve Source of Energy must be independent of the ship's main electrical system. This isolation prevents a failure in the ship's primary power distribution from affecting the GMDSS equipment, guaranteeing availability for distress and safety communications when needed most.