Babcock has teamed up with Estonian startup Frankenburg Technologies to create a maritime launch system for an affordable anti-uncrewed aircraft system (UAS). This collaboration, formalised through a memorandum of understanding, aims to enhance maritime defense capabilities by integrating innovative technologies, reflecting a growing trend in strategic partnerships within the defense sector.
Smart Ship Hub (SSH) predicts 2026 will be a transformative year for the maritime industry, emphasizing the necessity of digital transformation for profitability. CEO Joy Basu highlights the demand for measurable ROI and real-time intelligence, urging stakeholders to focus on tangible benefits from digitalization, including enhanced operational efficiency and automation through AI.
Anglo-Eastern Ship Management has partnered with Orca AI to integrate its maritime operations platform across its fleet, marking a significant step for AI-driven situational awareness in shipping. This collaboration enhances safety and operational efficiency, focusing on crew upskilling and innovative solutions for navigational challenges in congested waters.
AI-driven vision systems are becoming essential in the maritime industry, addressing challenges like congested waterways and unpredictable weather. Traditional radar and AIS often fail to detect small or non-reflective objects. Technologies like SEA.AI’s optical and thermal detection systems enhance safety by providing real-time analysis of potential hazards, including marine wildlife.
Inmarsat Maritime, a ViaSat subsidiary, has launched the next phase of its NexusWave bonded connectivity service, following the ViaSat-3 Flight 2 satellite’s success. With Flight 3 on the horizon, maritime customers can expect enhanced bandwidth and performance through the new VS60 terminal, designed for high-demand applications and robust security.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) will launch a digital platform in 2026 to modernize cadet training and assessment, moving away from paper methods. This platform will use technology to simulate real-life scenarios, enhancing skills in digital navigation, cybersecurity, and data management, while streamlining progress tracking through a cloud-based app.
Northern Marine Management Ltd (NMM) is enhancing crew welfare by installing Inmarsat Maritime’s NexusWave on select Stena Bulk and Proman Stena Bulk vessels. This initiative aims to provide high-speed internet for better talent attraction, enabling seafarers to connect with family and engage in remote learning, thus improving both well-being and operational performance.
Honeywell has launched a groundbreaking technology to convert agricultural and forestry waste into renewable fuels for the maritime sector. This innovation produces lower-carbon marine fuel, gasoline, and sustainable aviation fuel from biomass like wood chips. It provides a cost-effective, eco-friendly alternative to heavy fuel oil, enhancing energy efficiency for ship operators.
Iridium Communications Inc. has unveiled the Iridium PNT ASIC, a compact chip offering authenticated positioning, navigation, and timing data. Measuring just 8mm by 8mm, it connects to the Iridium satellite network, providing a signal 1,000 times stronger than GPS. This innovative solution aims to combat jamming and spoofing threats in various sectors.
Rolls-Royce has successfully tested the world’s first high-speed marine engine powered solely by methanol at its Friedrichshafen facility. This innovative project, supported by the German Federal Ministry, aims for climate-neutral shipping solutions by 2025. Initial tests show promising results, positioning green methanol as a viable fuel for marine operators.
ClassNK has awarded a Technology Qualification (TQ) for ‘SAS-IBS’, part of Samsung Heavy Industries’ Autonomous Navigation Assistance System. Presented at KORMARINE 2025, this initiative aims to enhance maritime autonomous surface ship technologies, reduce human error, and address labor shortages, while ensuring safety through comprehensive evaluation and guidelines for innovative technologies.
Growing environmental concerns are reviving interest in nuclear propulsion for decarbonizing shipping, according to DNV’s report. After decades without civilian nuclear vessels, the study examines maritime nuclear technologies, emphasizing the need to address regulatory and commercial challenges. It highlights reactor technologies, safety advancements, and the importance of a cohesive regulatory framework.
D-Marin’s smart marina technology is thriving, with nearly 20,000 boaters using its app. This platform enhances efficiency and customer experience, boasting over 19,300 active users. Features like Smart Pedestals and Smart Sensors allow easy management of berths and utilities, highlighting D-Marin’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in marina life.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has launched cutting-edge technology initiatives to elevate India’s maritime industry. Central to this is the SAGAR SETU platform, designed to enhance export-import services by connecting over 80 ports. Coupled with a Digital Centre of Excellence from CDAC, these initiatives promise to drive digital transformation and sustainable infrastructure development.
Investing in new technology like Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) is crucial for monitoring New Zealand’s vast maritime environment. USVs offer a cost-effective and future-ready capability to operate at sea for extended periods, providing a clearer maritime picture and enhancing safety and security. Commodore Shane Arndell highlights the importance of this technology for protecting the country’s interests.
