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Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Yanmar Power Solutions, and Japan Engine Corporation have achieved a milestone by conducting the world’s first land-based operation of marine hydrogen engines. This innovative demonstration utilized a liquefied hydrogen fuel supply system, enabling stable hydrogen combustion in various engine types, and paving the way for future zero-emission maritime solutions.
Everllence has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by converting the world’s first B&W S90 two-stroke engine to dual-fuel methanol. Following successful sea trials on COSCO Shipping Libra, this project highlights the feasibility of large-scale retrofits, with over 300 S90-class engines worldwide, paving the way for sustainable maritime energy solutions.
Madhu Nair, Chairman and Managing Director of Cochin Shipyard, announced an order book of approximately ₹20,000 crore, with significant contributions from the merchant vessel sector. He highlighted recent infrastructure investments, including a new dry dock. Looking ahead, Cochin Shipyard aims to strengthen its presence along India’s coasts through strategic partnerships.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) will host India Maritime Week 2025 from October 27 to 31 in Mumbai. Under the theme “Uniting Oceans, One Maritime Vision,” the event aims to position India as a global maritime hub, featuring over 100,000 delegates and significant international participation.
Rolls-Royce has successfully tested the world’s first high-speed marine engine powered solely by methanol at its Friedrichshafen facility. This innovative project, supported by the German Federal Ministry, aims for climate-neutral shipping solutions by 2025. Initial tests show promising results, positioning green methanol as a viable fuel for marine operators.
During a live demonstration aboard the MS Lumière, Shipping Technology and Retina achieved a historic autonomous Dock2Dock voyage. The integration of Retina’s M-Pilot with ST BRAIN and Autonomous Lane Assist enabled the vessel to undock, navigate, and dock autonomously, while the captain maintained oversight for safety throughout the journey.
During the ASEAN-India Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the deepening ties between India and ASEAN, particularly in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief. He declared 2026 as the “ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation,” emphasizing collaboration in education, health, and culture, while affirming the importance of shared values and historical connections.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will inaugurate the India Maritime Week 2025 on October 27 in Mumbai. This five-day event, themed “Uniting Oceans, One Maritime Vision,” aims to position India as a global maritime hub. Over 100,000 delegates from more than 85 countries are expected, highlighting international interest in India’s maritime sector.
Global shipping companies are increasingly re-registering their vessels under the Indian flag, a trend accelerated since April. This shift follows the simplification of shipping regulations and the introduction of the Coastal Shipping Act 2025, enhancing operations along India’s extensive coastline and boosting confidence in the nation’s maritime administration.
Researchers at the University of Queensland have created the world’s smallest wave tank on a silicon chip, using a superfluid helium layer. This innovative device allows for the study of wave dynamics at unprecedented scales, revealing unique phenomena like solitons and potentially transforming our understanding of turbulence and fluid dynamics.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency has transformed its operational efficiency through a data upskilling program in partnership with Multiverse, saving over 3,000 hours. Training 68 individuals in machine learning and data visualization, the initiative fosters a data-first culture, enhancing maritime safety and environmental clean-up while significantly increasing tool adoption.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s strong industrial base and the ‘Make in India’ initiative, emphasizing a $8 billion investment to revitalize shipbuilding and maritime sectors. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal noted a pivotal shift towards zero-carbon vessels, positioning India to lead in the global transition to green shipping.
At the 67th ISSA Convention in Singapore, Mr. Jan Engel de Boer highlighted the IMO’s initiatives supporting seafarers, including an upgraded joint database on seafarer abandonment. He praised ISSA’s commitment to welfare, especially during the COVID-19 crew change crisis, emphasizing collaboration to improve working conditions and preparedness for future health emergencies.
At Techonomy Impact, Sampriti Bhattacharyya, CEO of Navier, unveiled an all-electric hydrofoil boat designed to transform maritime travel. By utilizing aerospace engineering, the vessel minimizes drag, achieving an 80% reduction in energy consumption. Bhattacharyya advocates for rethinking maritime design to create zero-emission transportation hubs in coastal cities.
India is enhancing its maritime capabilities by establishing a nationwide inland ship repair network. This initiative aims to develop inland waterways, improve vessel maintenance, and boost operational efficiency. By reducing reliance on external facilities, India promotes self-sufficiency, creates jobs, and supports sustainable transport, marking a significant step in economic growth.
