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India and Russia are exploring joint production of Arctic-class vessels, aiming to boost maritime cooperation and trade along the International North-South Transport Corridor and the Chennai-Vladivostok route. Russian logistics firms are interested, while India’s shipyards expand capabilities. Talks remain early, as both nations seek a stronger Eurasian transport partnership.
KVH has launched the CommBox Edge Core, a cutting-edge communications gateway for leisure and small to mid-sized commercial vessels. Designed for robust network management, it integrates various WANs like Starlink and 5G/LTE, enhancing connectivity with features like Wi-Fi 6 and a user-friendly mobile app for seamless control.
The Directorate General of Shipping in India has launched Circular No. 53 of 2025, enhancing crew welfare and safety at sea. This includes a new training module addressing workplace violence, to be integrated into Basic Safety Training. Mandatory for all seafarers by January 2026, it promotes a respectful maritime environment.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal virtually inaugurated India’s first all-electric green tug on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in sustainable maritime operations. Designed for the Deendayal Port Authority, this tugboat is part of the Green Tug Transition Programme, aiming to decarbonize the maritime sector and promote clean energy solutions.
Kongsberg Maritime is celebrating 50 years of its pioneering dynamic positioning (DP) system, a revolutionary Norwegian innovation. Launched in the 1970s, it transformed offshore operations by allowing vessels to maintain position without anchors. Today, with over 4,000 systems in use, Kongsberg continues to lead in enhancing maritime safety and efficiency.
Wärtsilä identifies four pivotal trends in global shipping by 2026: accelerating digitalization, increasing decarbonization pressures, and uncertain regulatory environments. Vessel owners are shifting to long-term strategies prioritizing environmental impact and operational efficiency. Collaboration among stakeholders is essential as regulations evolve, while emerging technologies like hybrid propulsion systems enhance competitiveness.
Samsung Heavy Industries has launched a Remote Operation Centre (SROC) at Evergreen’s headquarters in Taipei, marking a groundbreaking partnership. This facility enables real-time monitoring of vessels, enhancing inspections and maintenance. With plans for more connected vessels, it signifies a commitment to innovation in smart-ship operations and remote navigation technology.
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.
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.
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.
India has been re-elected to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council, securing the highest votes in its category during the London Assembly elections for the 2025-26 biennium. With 154 votes, India joins Category B, which includes nations with significant interests in international seaborne trade, enhancing its maritime influence globally.
India is enhancing its global maritime standing by promoting sustainable shipping practices, as highlighted by its recent re-election to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council in Category B. With 154 votes, this achievement reflects international trust in India’s leadership and commitment to a secure, environmentally friendly maritime future.
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.
Cochin Port, Kerala’s second-largest port, is poised for a ₹10,000 crore upgrade, enhancing both the port and Cochin Shipyard. Key investments include ₹1,500 crore for the Vallarpadam Transhipment Terminal and ₹500 crore for an LNG bunkering facility, aiming to boost container handling and overall maritime capabilities in Kochi.
