The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has adopted the new International Code of Safety for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS Code) during the 111th session of the Maritime Safety Committee in London. This code is designed to facilitate the safe integration of autonomous and remotely operated commercial vessels into the global shipping industry.
The MASS Code establishes a comprehensive, goal-based framework to ensure that autonomous ships meet safety and environmental standards equivalent to those of traditional vessels. It specifically targets large cargo ships engaged in international trade and will come into effect on July 1, 2026.
Initially, the implementation of the MASS Code will be voluntary for a period of at least two years. This approach allows Member States to test the code’s application before it becomes mandatory under the SOLAS Convention.
A Maritime Autonomous Surface Ship (MASS) can operate with varying degrees of independence from human input, ranging from crewed vessels with advanced automation to fully autonomous ships capable of making independent decisions.
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