The Philippines is set to enhance its maritime security by acquiring 40 fast patrol craft for its coast guard. The purchase, approved by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., will be funded through official development assistance from the French government. This move aims to strengthen the country’s ability to safeguard its maritime borders.
Green Marine UK, based in Orkney, has expanded its environmental monitoring services for offshore wind projects, leading to a surge in contracts with Scotland’s Marine Directorate. The company now offers full-scope projects, including the deployment of Passive Acoustic Monitoring devices to monitor marine ecosystems.
The Fisheries Ministry, NFDB, and CMFRI collaborate to promote drone applications in marine fisheries. Drones will improve efficiency, detect algal blooms, and aid in rescue operations. An awareness workshop at CMFRI will showcase drone uses in aquaculture, live fish transportation, water sampling, and marine mammal stock assessment. Expect enhanced efficiency, reduced costs, and minimized environmental impact.
KVH Industries, Inc. has completed a major connectivity upgrade for Pacific Basin Shipping, providing worldwide communications to over 75 vessels. The use of KVH ONE multi-orbit network and Starlink service ensures high-speed Internet connectivity with intelligent hybrid switching. The upgrade reflects Pacific Basin’s commitment to innovative maritime connectivity for their fleet and crew.
In 2024, delays for containerships have reached levels not seen since the pandemic peak, with schedule reliability dropping to 51.4%. Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd aim to improve to 90% with the Gemini Cooperation in 2025. Port congestion in Asia and disruptions from Red Sea rerouting are contributing factors. Vessel bunching and winter weather challenges are causing delays.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez recently visited countries in the Red Sea area to address the current situation and show support for freedom of navigation. He expressed concern for innocent seafarers, particularly those held captive on the MV Galaxy Leader by Yemen’s Houthis. Dominguez highlighted the impact of continuous attacks on ships and seafarers.
U.S. Coast Guard Station Mayport swiftly responded to a dredge fire on the Stuyvesant near the St. John’s River. Multiple agencies collaborated to manage the emergency, with a crew member sustaining injuries. The vessel is now under investigation, raising questions about safety measures. Prompt response and coordination were crucial in the operation.
Mario, a Filipino seafarer, fights against unequal pay in the maritime industry in the Netherlands. Starting as a messman in 1993, he rose to chief cook but faced health issues and delayed medical attention on a Dutch ship. This case sheds light on wage disparities among Filipino and European crew members.
Swedish startup Candela has launched its hydrofoil electric ferry, Nova, which is now in operation. The 30-passenger ferry traveled from Tappström to Stockholm’s City Hall in just 30 minutes, covering a 15-kilometer route. Powered by electric motors, Nova is the fastest electric ferry globally, cruising at 25 knots above the water’s surface.
South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is leading a demonstration of autonomous operations on a large containership as part of a government-sponsored program. Equipped with specially designed systems, the vessel is showcasing autonomous collision avoidance and remote control capabilities. The initiative aims to advance technology development and establish international standards for autonomous shipping.
The Karnataka Maritime Board has revealed the ambitious Mangaluru Water Metro Project to revolutionize urban mobility in Mangaluru. By utilizing National Waterways along the Nethravathi and Gurupura rivers, this eco-friendly initiative aims to boost local livelihoods and enhance living standards. State-of-the-art catamaran boats will ensure comfort and efficiency, making it India’s second-largest water transport system.
In a recent statement, Yemen’s Houthi rebel group announced their intention to target ships previously owned by Israeli companies, even after being resold. This expands their potential targets in missile attacks on civilian shipping in the Red Sea. Despite claims to only target vessels linked to Israel, they have attacked ships with no clear ties.
Fouling on ships’ internal pipework is a common problem, but marine growth prevention systems like copper dosing offer effective solutions. This technology not only reduces maintenance costs but also increases efficiency and extends a vessel’s lifespan, crucial for the maritime industry to meet its net zero 2050 goals.
“K” LINE and Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat company, are collaborating on a trial of Inmarsat Maritime’s NexusWave bonded network service. This innovative service integrates high-speed networks for fast ship-to-shore communications. The trial, starting this month, aims to enhance digitalization of ship operations, environmental response, and seafarer welfare.
The Spirit of Tasmania V, a new ferry under construction, broke loose from its outfitting quay in severe winds. Thanks to a tug and barges, the ferry was saved from serious damage. TT-Line is ensuring the vessel’s safety and monitoring it with three tugs.
