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.
In real-world tests, Inmarsat Maritime’s NexusWave bonded connectivity service has proven to be a powerful solution for ships at sea, achieving impressive download speeds of 330–340 Mbps and upload speeds of 70–80 Mbps. With network availability exceeding 99.99%, NexusWave combines multiple underlays for superior reliability and redundancy, ensuring seamless connectivity in challenging maritime environments.
GBM is revolutionizing wind turbine foundation pile installation with its Vibrojet® technology, focusing on reducing underwater noise. By creating a fluid mixture within the monopile using water and vibrations, Vibrojet® eliminates the need for bladder curtains and reduces steel usage. GBM aims to provide a quieter and eco-friendly solution to noise pollution.
Swiss marine power company WinGD has completed successful shop tests of its variable compression ratio (VCR) technology, showing significant reductions in methane emissions. The innovative technology offers cost advantages for vessel applications and aligns with the company’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. WinGD envisions a transition towards zero-emission marine fuels.
South Korea’s HD Hyundai is actively exploring opportunities in India for a shipyard location or partnership, in line with India’s goal to become a world-class shipbuilder. The South Korean shipbuilder is touring India’s facilities and engaging with domestic shipbuilders for potential partnerships.
In New Delhi, Dr. Malini Shankar urged the fusion of India’s rich maritime heritage with contemporary technology to bolster security and growth. Highlighting the significance of ancient trade routes, she advocated for blending traditional shipbuilding with innovations like data analytics, emphasizing initiatives such as the Stitched Ship Project to realize India’s maritime potential.
