VIKING Life-Saving Equipment has announced initial orders for the Pentagon Star, an innovative mass rescue device for swift recovery during maritime and aviation crises. Designed for high-impact situations, it inflates into a floating platform accommodating up to 100 individuals, enhancing search and rescue operations with its lightweight and efficient design.
The Icelandic Seamen’s Union initiated an indefinite strike on May 25, impacting three Eimskip containerships. This follows the expiration of a contract with wage increases. Eimskip claims ongoing discussions with the union, denying allegations of employing lower-cost foreign labor. Meanwhile, negotiations for a collective wage agreement have been postponed to October 31.
The A.P. Moller Foundation’s Maersk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping has cut its workforce by 30% amid uncertainties in the shipping industry’s green transition. Despite this, CEO Bo Cerup-Simonsen reassures that the Center will adapt, focusing on energy efficiency, low-carbon research, and regulatory support, with 18 core sponsors still committed.
The inauguration of the new OTM Administrative Complex at Coast Guard District Headquarters No. 13 in Puducherry marks a major leap in India’s maritime security. Unveiled by DG Paramesh Sivamani, the facility enhances operational efficiency, featuring an advanced Operations Centre and Maritime Rescue Sub Centre for improved command and coordination in maritime challenges.
Sumitomo Corporation, Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE), and NYK Bulkship (Asia) have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on a Front-End Engineering Design study for a new ammonia bunkering vessel in Singapore. This initiative supports the ammonia value chain, enhancing Singapore’s energy transition and maritime decarbonization efforts.
President Donald Trump announced a significant escalation in U.S. efforts against alleged drug trafficking in Venezuela, confirming a noteworthy explosion at a targeted facility. This marks the first acknowledged U.S. land strike within the country. Trump stated the operation aimed to disrupt drug shipments and intensify pressure on Nicolás Maduro’s regime.
Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port in Kolkata has officially ended its joint venture with Cochin Shipyard Ltd. Despite this separation, both organizations remain dedicated to advancing India’s ship repair industry. SMPK plans to enhance its independent capabilities while expressing openness to future collaborations, reflecting a significant change in the sector’s dynamics.
A consortium of leading companies has launched the Bunkering Services Initiative (BSI) at the ARA ports, starting December 1, 2025. This voluntary initiative aims to enhance transparency in bunkering operations through technology-enabled insights into fuel quality and quantity, addressing industry challenges while fostering cooperation among stakeholders.
On December 11, Singapore authorities arrested Nigel Tang Wan Bao Nabil, linked to a large Asian scam network tied to alleged mastermind Chen Zhi. Currently out on bail, Tang faces accusations of money laundering. Investigations intensified after U.S. sanctions, revealing a vast operation involving substantial financial fraud and global victimization.
Connectivity at sea has shifted from luxury to necessity, particularly in the cruise industry. A recent incident on the Carnival Firenze demonstrated this when a system crash caused a communications failure, delaying departure. Passengers experienced disruptions in Wi-Fi and services, underscoring the critical need for reliable onboard connectivity.
Shipping giant Maersk plans to resume navigation through the Red Sea via the Suez Canal as conditions improve, according to CEO Vincent Clerc. The company aims to partially restart transit in December, following disruptions from regional conflicts. Clerc remains optimistic about safety enhancements in the area, emphasizing crew safety.
India’s Knowledge Marine and Engineering Works (KMEW) has secured a 15-year contract valued at INR 3.84 billion with the Visakhapatnam Port Authority. This deal involves the operation of a battery-powered tugboat, emphasizing zero-emission standards. KMEW will manage all aspects of the tugboat’s functionality, enhancing sustainable maritime practices in India.
Operation NOXIA II, led by the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), targeted illicit shipments, seizing 149.5 million cigarettes, over 3,000 tonnes of illegal waste, and significant quantities of pseudoephedrine and pesticides. Involving customs authorities from 39 countries, the initiative highlighted sophisticated smuggling routes and addressed environmental threats from misdeclared waste.
Albanian smuggling gangs are evolving their methods by employing frogmen to retrieve cocaine hidden beneath cargo ships. This “parasite” smuggling technique allows traffickers to bypass bribing crews, using specialized divers to access drugs concealed in a vessel’s sea chest. Their collaboration with South American cartels enhances their operational efficiency.
Maritime operations at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges have been suspended due to a national strike by Flemish pilots protesting federal pension reforms. This strike has halted seagoing and inland navigation since Monday evening, with a complete stop expected until October 15. Currently, 76 inbound and 34 outbound vessels are delayed.
