As the oil rig and wind farm industries increasingly shift to Asia, the Philippines and Japan are preparing for a surge in demand for dynamic positioning (DP) professionals. On July 29, 2025, a new Dynamic Positioning Training Center was inaugurated in Mariveles, Bataan, to address this critical need.
Interpol has officially canceled Japan’s extradition request for Paul Watson, founder of Sea Shepherd. This decision marks a significant turning point in the ongoing controversy surrounding Watson’s activism against whaling. With the red notice withdrawn, he can continue his efforts in marine conservation without the threat of arrest looming over him.
The Japan Coast Guard ship Itsukushima, under Captain Naoki Mizoguchi, docked at Chennai Port on July 7 for its Global Ocean Voyage Training. This visit highlights the strengthening partnership between the Indian Coast Guard and JCG, featuring bilateral meetings, cultural exchanges, and a joint sea exercise named ‘Jaa Mata’ on July 12.
The “Development of Integrated Simulation Platform for Sustainable and Competitive Maritime Industry” project, backed by Japan’s K Program, aims to enhance ship design and construction through digital technology. With a budget of $82 million, this collaboration involves industry leaders and academic institutions, positioning Japan as a maritime technology leader.
On July 7, 2025, the Japan Coast Guard ship Itsukushima, under Captain Naoki Mizoguchi, docked at Chennai Port, symbolizing enhanced maritime ties between India and Japan. This visit includes bilateral meetings, joint training, and a key sea exercise called Jaa Mata, reinforcing cooperation and commitment to regional maritime security.
Cydome, a cybersecurity firm specializing in maritime and critical infrastructure, has partnered with MarineNet Co. to integrate its ClassNK-endorsed solutions into MarineNet’s MN-Station. This collaboration enhances cybersecurity for Japanese shipping operations amidst rising threats, leveraging AI algorithms and NIST standards to provide comprehensive protection for IT and communication assets.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal met Japan’s Vice Minister Terada Yoshimichi in Oslo to strengthen maritime cooperation. They discussed shipbuilding, port digitalization, green initiatives, and transforming Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep into Smart Islands. Sonowal emphasized India’s eagerness for joint ventures and proposed training programs for Indian seafarers to support Japan’s maritime needs.
Nippon Yuka Kogyo Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of the NYK Group, has launched BioxiGuard, Japan’s first antioxidant for marine biodiesel fuel. Available from August 10, this innovation enhances oxidative stability, reducing degradation by 50%. This development supports the maritime industry’s shift toward sustainable biofuels, improving efficiency and safety in operations.
On May 13, Japan launched the first methanol-fueled bulk carrier, the Green Future. Owned by Kambara Kisen and constructed by Tsuneishi Shipbuilding, it features a deadweight tonnage of approximately 65,700. This vessel significantly reduces emissions, showcasing a pivotal shift in the shipping industry’s approach to sustainability.
Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan welcomed Japan Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Seguchi Yoshio at the PCG National Headquarters in Manila. Their meeting focused on enhancing maritime cooperation, showcasing techniques from the JCG’s Mobile Cooperation Team, and reinforcing commitments to safety and security in the region through shared knowledge.
On April 29, Shinnihonkai Ferry Co. and JRTT launched the first of two large car ferries, the Keyaki. Weighing 14,300 gross tons and measuring 199 meters, it accommodates 286 passengers and transports 150 trucks. Built by Mitsubishi, it features energy-saving designs and aims to enhance Japan’s sea transport efficiency.
Tsuneishi Shipbuilding unveiled Japan’s first tugboat with a hydrogen-powered internal combustion engine. Featuring high-power output and high-pressure hydrogen gas storage, the vessel aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 60%. With the ability to switch to traditional marine fuels in case of hydrogen system failure, the tugboat represents a significant step towards environmental sustainability in maritime transportation.
Japan recently launched its first hydrogen dual-fuel tug as part of the “Zero Emission Ships Project” sponsored by The Nippon Foundation. The vessel, equipped with a high-power output hydrogen dual-fuel internal combustion engine and a large-capacity high-pressure hydrogen gas storage system, aims to maintain operational performance while using hydrogen fuel.
The world’s first commercial-use ammonia-fueled vessel, Sakigake, completed a successful three-month demonstration voyage in Tokyo Bay. Owned by NYK, it achieved a 95% greenhouse gas emission reduction, showcasing ammonia’s potential as maritime fuel. The 272-ton tug, originally LNG-fueled, marked a milestone in alternative fuel operations in the maritime industry.
Japan recently celebrated the launch of its first purpose-built ice-class Arctic research vessel, Mirai II. With advanced technology for various observations, the vessel represents a significant upgrade for JAMSTEC. Officials emphasized Japan’s responsibility as a leader in addressing Arctic issues and highlighted the vessel’s role in advancing global environmental research.
