Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., alongside Imabari Shipbuilding, “K” LINE, MOL, NYK Line, JMU, and NSY, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a standard design framework for liquefied CO2 carriers and next-gen alternative fuel vessels. This initiative emphasizes decarbonization technologies, enhancing Japan’s shipbuilding competitiveness globally.
Inmarsat Maritime, a ViaSat subsidiary, has launched the next phase of its NexusWave bonded connectivity service, following the ViaSat-3 Flight 2 satellite’s success. With Flight 3 on the horizon, maritime customers can expect enhanced bandwidth and performance through the new VS60 terminal, designed for high-demand applications and robust security.
CIMSEC is thrilled to present a two-week showcase of short stories inspired by maritime security and naval warfare. These narratives explore future conflicts and technological advancements at sea. Featuring diverse authors, this edition promises engaging themes and imaginative scenarios that invite readers to reflect on evolving maritime challenges.
Seatrium has initiated arbitration against a Maersk Offshore Wind affiliate, escalating a dispute over the termination of a contract for a wind turbine installation vessel for the Empire Wind 1 project. This follows a termination notice from the buyer after Seatrium announced the vessel’s readiness for delivery by January 2026.
Spanish maritime authorities have initiated efforts to tow the abandoned coastal freighter Marine I, adrift in the Strait of Gibraltar for ten days. The crew of 17 faces dire conditions, lacking essential supplies. A tugboat has been dispatched to ensure the safety of both the ship and its crew.
The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) reported a cargo fire aboard the bulk carrier Atlay on June 27, 2025, during scrap metal loading at Albert Dock, Hull. Detected by the master, the fire prompted immediate evacuation preparations and firefighting responses. Investigations suggest an undischarged battery may have ignited the blaze.
The NATO Regional Centre, in partnership with the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative, has launched a specialized training course on “Joint Standardized Training in Contemporary Maritime Interdiction Operations.” This five-day program, led by Rear Admiral Pericles Pepis, features 22 trainees from Gulf Cooperation Council countries, focusing on enhancing maritime security skills.
The owners of the containership ONE Henry Hudson declared a General Average after a significant fire incident at the Port of Los Angeles. All crewmembers were safely evacuated, while nearly 200 firefighters managed the blaze. Salvage operations now focus on removing damaged cargo and assessing contaminated firefighting water.
Syria has regained its voting rights at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) after years of suspension. Participating in the Council elections on November 29, Syria’s re-engagement signifies a pivotal moment for its influence in global maritime policies. The IMO Assembly, running from November 24 to December 3, addresses crucial maritime issues.
Nigeria’s recent election to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council represents a pivotal moment for its maritime sector. Securing a seat in Category C for 2026–2027, the nation reaffirms its position as Africa’s largest blue economy. Labor unions and media celebrate this achievement, crediting strategic leadership and inter-ministerial collaboration.
A fishing boat faced fuel issues off Llandudno’s Great Orme, issuing a distress signal at 3:38 PM on Saturday. With three crew members aboard, the vessel alerted HM Coastguard. The Llandudno RNLI and rescue teams responded, ultimately towing the boat to safety in Bangor, ensuring all crew members were unharmed.
On November 28, Singapore was re-elected to the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for the 17th consecutive term. Led by Acting Minister for Transport Mr. Jeffrey Siow, the delegation emphasized the importance of collaboration in maritime safety and pollution prevention, reinforcing Singapore’s commitment to global shipping governance since 1993.
Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has detained 20 Filipino seafarers following the discovery of 20 kilograms of cocaine concealed in their vessel’s cargo. The crew, aboard the Panama-flagged bulk carrier Nord Bosporus, is reportedly being treated well as investigations continue. Communication with the Philippines’ Department of Migrant Workers is ongoing.
On Friday, two sanctioned tankers caught fire in the Black Sea, reportedly due to external impacts near Turkey. The first, Kairos, was empty and experienced a fire 28 nautical miles offshore. Thankfully, all crew members were rescued unharmed. Concerns grew as the vessel might have struck a mine.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Republic of Korea (RoK) are launching the SMART-C Maritime Security and Counter-Piracy project to enhance Gulf of Guinea coastal States’ capabilities against piracy. Funded by a $3 million pledge from RoK, the initiative focuses on strengthening cooperation, training, and regional coordination for maritime safety.
