Maritime Cybersecurity Enhancements Urged in Inmarsat White Paper for 2024 IACS Compliance

In a white paper published by Inmarsat Maritime, maritime organizations are urged to enhance their cybersecurity defenses as the industry increasingly incorporates connected technologies for digitalization, decarbonization, and crew well-being. The document delves into the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS)’s new Unified Requirements (URs) for cybersecurity, particularly focusing on Uniform IACS Requirements E26 and E27. These new requirements are set to establish minimum cyber resilience standards for newbuilding ships and their connected systems by July 1, 2024. The white paper acknowledges the importance of thorough risk assessment processes and emphasizes the need for organizations to prioritize cybersecurity policies and procedures.

Makiko Tani, deputy head of cybersecurity at maritime classification society ClassNK, stresses the significance of a risk-based approach to meeting cybersecurity requirements, involving the implementation of cyber risk controls after a comprehensive risk assessment and a balanced focus on people, processes, and technology. In collaboration with industry leaders, ClassNK aims to assist stakeholders in optimizing their cyber risk controls and integrating cybersecurity policies into their organizational governance strategies. Inmarsat Fleet Secure, a comprehensive cybersecurity solution, supports maritime organizations in complying with regulations such as the new IACS URs while enhancing people and culture, network-connected systems and services, and incident response plans.

Inmarsat’s Fleet Secure portfolio, which includes Fleet Secure Endpoint, Fleet Secure Unified Threat Management, and Cyber Awareness Training, offers proactive protection against potential cyber threats for Fleet Xpress customers. This holistic, risk-based approach enables organizations to embed cybersecurity into their connectivity strategies to safeguard their assets and personnel from online threats. Inmarsat’s white paper provides valuable insights for maritime organizations to prepare for the upcoming cybersecurity requirements and enhance their overall cyber resilience.

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