The Klaipėda State Seaport Authority has launched Lithuania’s first green hydrogen and electricity-powered ship, a tanker designed to collect waste from vessels entering the port. Equipped with special tanks and a modern rainwater treatment plant, the ship can collect up to 400 cubic metres of liquid waste around the clock.
Security consultants and ReCAAP have warned of increased piracy activity near the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, with 62 vessels robbed in 2024. Most incidents occurred west of Pulau Cula, Indonesia, involving armed pirates stealing spare parts. Recent cases show a rise in violence, prompting calls for enhanced vigilance and patrols to combat the crime wave.
Singapore-based shipbuilder Strategic Marine has introduced a series of three new crew transfer vessels that are the fastest in the world, reaching speeds over 53 knots. These vessels, powered by Rolls-Royce engines, feature air-cushion technology in a catamaran hull design, offering improved efficiency and speed for offshore passenger transfer.
Amphitrite, a startup named after the Greek goddess of the sea, is using AI and satellite data to revolutionize maritime-shipping and oceanic litter-collection operations. Co-founder Alexandre Stegner believes their work is crucial for the energy transition and addressing environmental issues. Their AI models, powered by NVIDIA technology, optimize vessel positioning for efficiency and sustainability.
The third 7,600 m3 LNG bunkering vessel, built by Nantong CIMC Sinopacific Offshore & Engineering (CIMC SOE), has been delivered to Seaspan Energy. Certified by Bure Veritas, it features dual-fuel operation, a DC power distribution system, and twin Type C cargo tanks. It highlights a commitment to sustainability in the maritime industry.
On January 24, 2025, Col DPK Pillay delivered a Keynote Address at an International Conference on Asia’s Maritime History and Identity at Cultural Crossroads. The event, organized by Kristu Jayanti College Bangalore and the University of Auckland, aimed to explore the impact of Asia’s maritime past on cultural interactions.
The Singapore Police Coast Guard’s elite Special Task Squadron (STS) showcased their capabilities in a simulated rescue mission against armed pirates. Equipped with advanced technology like the Diodon drone and Spyder hull-climbing robot, the STS successfully rescued a hostage. Superintendent Lee emphasized the importance of innovation in ensuring the safety and success of missions.
Maersk, a container shipping giant, continues to divert vessels away from the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea despite reduced attacks by Yemen’s Houthis. Safety remains their top priority, opting to sail around Africa until security in the area is guaranteed. This cautious approach reflects their commitment to protecting crew, vessels, and cargo.
SailTimer is changing the game for ships with its innovative crowd-sourced weather data. By incorporating real-time wind measurements into their software, ships can optimize their routes, reduce fuel costs, and minimize emissions. The affordable Air Link device makes it easy to extract and utilize this valuable data for improved voyage planning and compliance.
Scottish subsea specialist Sulmara recently assisted in a major fuel recovery operation for the typhoon-struck cargo ship, Yu Zhou Qi Hang, off the coast of Taiwan. Using a WAM-V 16 uncrewed surface vehicle equipped with a multibeam echosounder, Sulmara conducted a complex seabed survey to ensure safe navigation in shallow waters.
Norway’s DNV partners with South Korea’s HMD and KSOE to develop digital twin-based testing standards for electric propulsion systems in ships. This collaboration focuses on enhancing safety and efficiency by integrating HiL testing methods to address complex vessel system issues. The goal is to establish clear procedures and standards for reliable results in ship systems.
HD Hyundai Heavy Industries – Engine and Machinery recently completed the factory acceptance test (FAT) of the world’s first H54DF HiMSEN engine at HD Hyundai Engine in South Korea. The 6-cylinder H54DF engine is a dual-fuel engine with a power output of approximately 12,000 horsepower, offering significant advancements in engine technology.
The world’s largest iceberg, A23a, is slowly drifting towards South Georgia, threatening local wildlife. Measuring 1.1 million acres and weighing one trillion tonnes, it is 75 times larger than Manhattan. The iceberg broke off Antarctica in 1986 and is now 180 miles away from the island. Conservationists are concerned about potential hazards to vessel traffic.
The Nippon Foundation of Japan is funding a study on “dark oxygen” found in polymetallic nodules. Deep-sea miners seek these nodules for valuable metals, but concerns about environmental impacts have been raised. Prof. Sweetman’s team discovered oxygen production in the abyssal plain, challenging traditional beliefs. Further research is planned with support from the Nippon Foundation.
Deere & Company has unveiled two new John Deere marine engines, the JD14 and JD18, to meet the needs of commercial marine operations. These engines, with power ranges from 298 to 599 kW, will offer high performance, fuel efficiency, and rugged durability. Production is set to begin in 2026, catering to various marine markets.
