Kongsberg Maritime has signed an extended thruster coverage agreement with KOTUG International for five new azimuth stern drive tugs in West Africa. This partnership establishes a lifecycle support framework, enhancing maintenance efficiency and vessel reliability. It aims to maximize availability while minimizing operational risks, ensuring long-term fleet performance.
ABS, Polaris Shipping, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, and AVIKUS have initiated a Concept Study Agreement to develop a Conditional Unmanned Bridge for Polaris’s 325K Very Large Ore Carriers. This project aims for unmanned operations in low-risk conditions, aligning with the IMO’s Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships Code, advancing autonomous shipping.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore and the Singapore Maritime Institute have launched the updated Singapore Maritime Technology & Research Roadmap. This 2026 edition focuses on translating research into actionable solutions, enhancing resilience, productivity, and innovation in the maritime sector through advancements in digital technologies and smart operations.
Orca AI has launched an advanced operational platform featuring a 360° field of view around vessels. Utilizing three SeaPod lookout units with high-sensitivity RGB and thermal cameras, this system enhances collision avoidance and autonomous navigation. It ensures comprehensive situational awareness, crucial for safe operations in busy maritime environments.
Researchers at the Korea Institute of Materials Science (KIMS) have developed a groundbreaking carbon coating that enhances corrosion and wear resistance in ammonia-fueled marine engines. This innovation addresses the challenges of ammonia’s corrosive properties, paving the way for cleaner maritime propulsion and positioning Korea as a leader in green shipping technologies.
Mitsui E&S and Taiyo Electric have unveiled an Overhang Permanent Magnet Shaft Generating System for large marine engines. Positioned at the front of the engine, this innovative design minimizes disruptions, enhances fuel efficiency, and simplifies installation. It also supports engine-assist operation, improving overall vessel performance in challenging conditions.
In a groundbreaking move for maritime security, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority has introduced India’s first advanced Anti-Drone System. This system, featuring Radio Frequency and radar-based detection, enhances protection against unauthorized drones, ensuring robust operations. The initiative aligns with national security priorities, marking a significant step in safeguarding critical port infrastructure.
Yanmar Power Solutions Co., Ltd. has made history as Japan’s first engine manufacturer to obtain type approval and NOx certifications from ClassNK for its hydrogen-fueled engine. This milestone supports the Zero Emission Ships Project, promoting carbon neutrality in shipping by facilitating the adoption of nearly zero CO₂ emitting hydrogen engines.
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.
