Dutch company Econowind, based in Zeewolde, has secured 1 million euros in development capital from Invest International for its ventilation foil XL. Inspired by aviation technology, these wind sails aim to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 15% for large ships. The company plans to target the deep-sea shipping market.
The CMA CGM Group is bolstering its maritime network in the Indian subcontinent and Middle East, supporting trade and economic growth in key regions. Indian Prime Minister Modi and French President Macron visited CMA CGM’s Marseille headquarters, discussing the IMEC project to improve transit between Europe and India.
Shivdev, a 58-year-old Indian captain and retired Navy officer, has gone missing after slipping into the Mediterranean Sea off Egypt. The incident occurred on February 15 while he was aboard the Vessel Onyx. His family is urgently seeking assistance from authorities, as search efforts have yielded no results.
The European Union has extended Operation Aspides, its maritime security initiative in the Red Sea, until February 28, 2026, with over 17 million euros allocated. Led by counter-admiral Vasiseios Gyparis, the operation aims to ensure safe navigation amidst regional tensions, focusing on intelligence related to arms trafficking and shadow fleets.
MITSUI E&S has started testing the world’s first commercial, two-stroke, dual-fuel ammonia engine at their Tamano Factory in Japan. The MAN B&W 7S60ME-LGIA Mk 10.5 prototype engine will be installed on a bulk carrier for a joint venture between “K” LINE, NS United, and ITOCHU Corp. MAN Energy Solutions highlights the importance of using ammonia.
A merchant vessel named Bitumen Tanker YLW, sailing under the flag of Cook Islands, encountered an oil pump failure off the coast of Kerala. The crew sought assistance from authorities in Vizhinjam, leading to a five-day delay in their journey to Sharjah. Despite obstacles, the pump was successfully delivered, highlighting the importance of efficient response.
Philippines National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) has revamped its Management Level Course (MLC) for Marine Deck Officers, now condensed to 28 days from 55 days, aligning with industry standards. Approved by Marina, the course focuses on essential managerial skills for senior positions in the maritime industry. The updated curriculum enhances decision-making and leadership skills.
The Canadian Coast Guard is leading efforts to survey the MSC Baltic III, a cargo ship grounded in a winter storm. Crew rescued in challenging conditions, with 20 members airlifted to safety. Emergency zone established, salvage teams mobilized. Weather remains a hurdle, but forecast offers hope for smooth salvage operations by midweek.
Lloyd’s Register’s Maritime Decarbonisation Hub and Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping have released reports addressing the upskilling needs of future seafarers in the transition to alternative fuels. Focusing on ammonia as a promising fuel, the reports highlight safety hazards and propose comprehensive training programs to ensure seafarer safety.
Iraq Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani met with IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez in Baghdad to discuss cooperation in training, regulation, and depositing agreements. They emphasized Iraq’s commitment to strengthening relations with IMO, developing port infrastructure, and completing projects like the Al-Faw Grand Port. The meeting highlighted mutual interest in enhancing Iraq’s maritime sector.
Namibia’s Minister of Works and Transport John Mutorwa has introduced a new maritime labor law to improve seafarers’ rights. The amended Labour and Maritime Convention of 2006 aims to address working conditions on boats and ships. Mutorwa emphasized the importance of creating a comprehensive instrument that incorporates international standards for seafarers’ well-being.
Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM) has expanded its reach by opening a new Maritime Training Centre (MTC) in Ghana, offering courses for cadets, officers, ratings, and hospitality crew. This move strengthens BSM’s ties with the Regional Maritime University and demonstrates their commitment to developing African seafarers to meet the growing demand in the region.
Czechoslovakia, a landlocked country, once had a notable maritime presence through the Czechoslovak Ocean Shipping Company. The company operated 44 vessels, including Třinec, which was known for its efficiency in transporting bulk materials. Despite ceasing operations in 1998, efforts are underway to salvage Třinec’s legacy and reclaim pieces of its history.
Polish Maritime Border Guard officers made a significant discovery in the Baltic Sea, finding over 100 kilograms of cocaine worth $15 million on the black market. This operation highlights the ongoing battle against drug trafficking and the need to protect national security. Seven individuals have been apprehended in connection with the drugs.
NYK Line has partnered with Northern Offshore Group (N-O-G) to tap into the growing offshore wind industry near Japan. With over 60 crew transfer vessels globally, N-O-G will benefit from NYK’s global network for technical development, while NYK gains operational experience for the expanding offshore wind market in Japan.
