The OTTER satellite, launched on November 28, 2025, is a six-kilogram nanosatellite designed to enhance maritime monitoring from an altitude of 500 kilometers. Developed by the German Aerospace Center (DLR), it aims to detect illegal fishing, oil spills, and ships in distress, showcasing the potential of small satellites in responsive space applications.
The search for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 will resume on December 30, over a decade after its disappearance in 2014. Ocean Infinity will conduct a 55-day seabed search in the southern Indian Ocean, focusing on areas with the highest likelihood of finding the aircraft, with a $70 million incentive from Malaysia.
Nine Filipino crew members detained by Yemen’s Houthi rebels after their cargo ship, M/V Eternity C, was sunk in the Red Sea are set to be released. Philippine officials said the sailors will be transferred to Oman before returning home, crediting Omani diplomatic efforts for securing their freedom.
On December 2, 2025, Goa Shipyard Limited handed over the ICGS Amulya, the third Fast Patrol Vessel in a series of eight, enhancing India’s maritime security. Measuring 51.43 meters and powered by twin diesel engines, the vessel will conduct various missions, including fisheries protection and anti-piracy operations.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has elected ten states to its Council, with China, Greece, and the U.S. representing international shipping interests. Concerns rose as EmissionLink’s Managing Director highlighted that postponing the Net Zero Framework could result in fragmented regulations, complicating compliance for shipowners amid diverse national carbon schemes.
During the IMO Assembly on December 2, the World Maritime University and the 90 North Foundation released the “2025 Arctic Report,” assessing the Arctic Ocean’s rapid changes due to climate change and human activity. It warns against overestimating economic potential, urging protective measures to safeguard biodiversity and support Indigenous communities.
A Russian-flagged tanker, MIDVOLGA-2, was reportedly attacked by a drone off Turkey’s coast, with no injuries to its crew. Ukraine denied involvement, raising suspicions of a staged event by Russia. Turkish President Erdoğan condemned the attacks on commercial vessels, emphasizing the need for navigational safety in the Black Sea.
President Vladimir Putin has warned that Russia may target vessels from countries supporting Ukraine if attacks on its tanker fleet continue. Describing Ukrainian military actions as “piracy,” he mentioned potential countermeasures, including intensified strikes on relevant port facilities. Putin cautioned against retaliatory actions, though recent incidents have heightened tensions significantly.
Norsepower and Idemitsu Tanker Co., Ltd. are partnering to equip two Very Large Crude Carriers with innovative wind-assisted propulsion technology, marking a significant shift in reducing emissions. These vessels, featuring Norsepower Rotor Sails, aim for a carbon-neutral future while integrating advanced energy-saving technologies and low-carbon fuels. The project highlights sustainable shipping practices.
Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, Igloo Corp., and Hyundai LNG Shipping have launched a joint development project to enhance cyber resilience in maritime operations. Leveraging Igloo’s SPiDER OT platform, the collaboration aims to fortify cybersecurity measures, comply with IACS regulations, and address the growing threat of cyberattacks in shipping.
A consortium led by ACUA Ocean has received government support for a 145-foot uncrewed offshore vessel, enhancing autonomous operations in energy and logistics. With hybrid-electric propulsion, it plans to explore sustainable fuels like methanol and hydrogen. The project aims for efficient offshore solutions, bolstering inspection and logistics capabilities.
Nippon Paint Marine has teamed up with Lloyd’s Register Advisory to evaluate the long-term performance of its FASTAR and AQUATERRAS hull coatings. This collaboration aims to provide shipowners with an unbiased benchmark for coating efficiency, fuel savings, and emissions reduction, using the ISO 19030 standard across various vessel types and operating conditions.
On November 28, the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority hosted a workshop on dock safety and hazardous chemical handling at the JNPA Business Facilitation Centre. Collaborating with the Ministry of Labour and DGFASLI, the event gathered port officials and safety experts to enhance operational safety and review regulatory frameworks for hazardous cargo management.
Ganpat University Goa recently hosted the Maritime Skill Conclave 2025, focusing on enhancing maritime education and sustainable development. Key figures, including Goa’s Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, engaged in discussions aimed at fostering innovation. Dr. Ganpatbhai I Patel emphasized collaboration as vital for advancing maritime skills and addressing industry challenges.
South Australia is advancing its maritime infrastructure with the launch of Phase 2 of the ‘Deep Blue’ project. Spearheaded by BMT and the Department of Infrastructure and Transport, this initiative pilots the ADAPT platform, enhancing decision-making for ports through real-time data analysis and predictive forecasting, driving efficiency and sustainability.
