Maritime data provider Kpler has partnered with Airbus to enhance its capability to track vessels that evade traditional ship-tracking systems. By incorporating daily satellite imagery, Kpler aims to identify ships operating without reliable Automatic Identification System (AIS) signals. This collaboration will merge data from Airbus’s SPOT Earth observation satellites with Kpler’s existing tracking network, enabling analysts to detect vessels regardless of their reported AIS locations.
The advanced service utilizes high-resolution satellite imagery—offering 1.5-meter resolution over a 60-kilometer swath—along with artificial intelligence to identify vessels at sea and in port. This technology addresses the critical issue of distinguishing between ships that intentionally disable their AIS signals and those reporting inaccurate positions due to interference with navigation systems. AIS spoofing, GPS jamming, and electronic interference have significantly complicated maritime tracking, particularly in conflict zones.
By comparing AIS data with independently captured satellite imagery, Kpler believes it can effectively differentiate between deliberate signal manipulation and external disruption. This enhanced capability is expected to aid shipping companies and governments in monitoring maritime activity and ensuring compliance, particularly in cases of sanctions evasion and shadow fleet operations.
The partnership with Airbus provides an additional source of tracking information that does not rely on AIS transmissions, allowing analysts to verify vessel locations even when electronic tracking is compromised. The companies have not disclosed financial details or a timeline for when the expanded detection service will be operational.
