Houthi militants have intensified attacks on Israel and related shipping, despite no new threats. This increase follows Israel’s commitment to counter Houthi actions, especially after the use of cluster bombs. The UK Maritime Trade Operations warned of an incident involving an “unknown projectile” in the Red Sea, highlighting rising regional tensions.
India has achieved a major milestone in maritime infrastructure with the inauguration of Phase 2 at the Bharat Mumbai Container Terminal (BMCT). This expansion boosts capacity to 4.8 million TEUs, making it the largest standalone terminal in the country, enhancing cargo efficiency and trade competitiveness while fostering bilateral cooperation with Singapore.
Great Eastern Shipping Company Ltd. (GESCO) is set to enhance its fleet by acquiring a Kamsarmax dry bulk carrier of approximately 81,922 DWT, scheduled for Q3 FY 2026. This acquisition, fully funded through internal accruals, follows agreements for two secondhand vessels, expanding GESCO’s fleet to 41 vessels and 3.37 million DWT.
Starlink Maritime has slashed its unlimited data package price for IMO-registered vessels from $25,000 to $2,500 per month, a 90% reduction. Launched in early 2024, the Mobile Priority Unlimited package offers uncapped data and a 99.9% uptime guarantee, aiming to enhance connectivity in the commercial shipping sector.
Since launching Operation Pacific Viper on August 8, the U.S. Coast Guard has seized over £40,000 worth of cocaine in the Eastern Pacific, resulting in 14 arrests. This initiative disrupts drug smuggling by targeting criminal organizations, showcasing the Coast Guard’s capabilities and commitment to maritime drug interdiction.
Swedish company eMarine is integrating 1,500 ABB NINVA™ non-invasive temperature sensors into its energy management solutions for the maritime sector. This collaboration introduces ABB’s innovative technology to the marine industry, enhancing efficiency and sustainability for cruise and cargo operators by optimizing heat recovery and reducing fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.
Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, recorded a remarkable 16.02% increase in cargo throughput from April to August 2025, handling 28.236 million metric tonnes. The Haldia Dock Complex contributed significantly with 20.625 MMT, while the Kolkata Dock System saw a 24.35% rise, processing 7.611 MMT. Chairman Rathendra Raman praised the team’s commitment.
Azolla has launched an EUA Requisition Platform to streamline compliance with the EU Emissions Trading System. This platform provides live EUA pricing, enabling direct transactions for shipowners and charterers. By simplifying onboarding and reducing KYC processes, it offers a rapid procurement pathway and democratizes access to the EUA market.
Kongsberg Maritime is enhancing mooring solutions for offshore floating structures by developing simplified technologies that reduce costs, complexity, and environmental impact. Their innovations aim to minimize components and eliminate active tensioning equipment, enabling safer installations and significant fuel savings, ultimately streamlining offshore floater operations while improving safety and reliability.
Ray Bogan highlights the potential of RD-99 biodiesel, derived from cooking oils and animal fats, in the marine industry. Recent tests on the Mack Attack yacht show RD-99 performs similarly to petroleum diesel. Despite its higher cost, stakeholders aim to promote biodiesel for its environmental benefits and cleaner combustion.
DRAVIDAM, Bangalore, in collaboration with curator Jaya Mani, presents “Voyages: The Ancient Maritime Silk Route,” featuring artists Gunjan Jain and Suresh Muthukulam. This exhibition explores historical maritime connections between South India and Southeast Asia, highlighting the cultural exchanges influenced by the Pallava dynasty and the Chola Empire from the 3rd to 15th century CE.
India’s shipping industry is rapidly modernizing, yet a critical skills gap threatens its global competitiveness. While infrastructure investments grow, the shortage of digitally fluent professionals hinders progress. Bridging this gap through upskilling initiatives is essential for leveraging advanced technologies, ensuring India can lead in the evolving logistics landscape.
Auckland’s push for greener transport advances as McMullen and Wing launch sea trials of a new all-electric ferry for Auckland Transport. Built with lightweight carbon-fibre and powered by fast-charging batteries, the vessel promises sustainable, high-speed service for up to 230 passengers on the Auckland–Half Moon Bay route.
A new feasibility study, FASTMOVE, led by Ricardo in collaboration with Brunel University London and the Port of Cromarty Firth, is exploring ammonia as a maritime fuel. This initiative aims to assess ammonia’s role in decarbonization and develop a next-generation combustion engine, enhancing the UK’s leadership in sustainable maritime technology.
Filipino seafarers face ongoing abandonment and abuse, often accepting these as norms due to fear of job loss. At the International Conference on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Captain Jasmin Labarda emphasized that many remain silent, fearing disbelief or retaliation. The Manila Declaration seeks to uphold maritime workers’ rights and enhance accountability.
