
The voice of IT Leadership in the commercial maritime industry
Editor’s Note
Today’s stories reflect how digitalisation and decarbonisation are converging across the maritime value chain. From a national floating laboratory designed to test hydrogen and autonomous systems, to AI driven onboard safety analytics and tighter integration between freight trading and voyage management, shipowners are being offered new tools to manage risk and transition.
At the same time, consolidation in green fuel systems and hybrid propulsion investment in offshore tugs show that capital is moving behind practical solutions. The common thread is structured, data led decision making at fleet level.
Navigation, Autonomy & New Technologies
DLR builds floating lab for future fleets
A new 48 metre seagoing research platform in Germany is set to test hydrogen propulsion, batteries and autonomous navigation under real operating conditions. Designed as a modular floating laboratory, it aims to move emerging systems closer to certification and commercial deployment for shipowners planning fuel transition and digital upgrades. With onshore simulation infrastructure in Kiel and sea trials in the North and Baltic Seas, the project offers a rare bridge between research and fleet application.
Live Webinar
Maritime operations are facing a new risk reality. Congested sea lanes, poor visibility, satellite jamming, AIS spoofing, and dark fleet activity are increasing operational complexity across global shipping.
In this environment, safety and performance depend less on reacting faster, and more on making better decisions under uncertainty.
Join our live webinar, From Risk to Resilience: Human + AI Collaboration for Safer Fleet Operations, on Tuesday, February 24th | 9AM GMT/10AM CET, to explore how shipowners and fleet leaders are strengthening situational awareness, reducing variability, and improving consistency across fleets through responsible human-AI collaboration.
Navigation, Autonomy & New Technologies
Ultranav rolls out ShipIn AI visibility
A major South American operator is expanding AI driven video analytics across its fleet after a structured pilot. The system converts routine onboard footage into actionable safety and technical intelligence, strengthening bridge resource management and machinery risk oversight. For ship management teams, it signals a shift from post incident review to continuous operational visibility.
Software, Big Data & IoT
EEX and Veson link FFA data to IMOS
A new platform integration links freight derivatives data directly into voyage management workflows. By embedding FFA pricing and emissions cost inputs into commercial systems, ship managers can improve mark to market visibility and reduce manual handling risks. The move reflects growing alignment between trading desks and operational control.

Where operational excellence meets net zero ambition
Propulsion and future fuels
G&O adds FuelTech to green fuel push
A Danish maritime group has acquired a specialist in fuel supply systems for alternative fuels, lifting combined turnover above DKK 1.1 billion. The deal strengthens capabilities in methanol and ammonia systems at a time when shipowners require scalable, compliant solutions. Consolidation around niche green technologies continues to gather pace.
Propulsion and future fuels
Østensjø orders hybrid tug with Steerprop
A new 150 tonne bollard pull offshore tug will combine diesel and electric propulsion with DP2 capability. Designed for demanding towage operations, the hybrid configuration aims to balance efficiency with peak performance. The project reflects growing confidence in hybrid propulsion for offshore support fleets.
Yesterday’s Most Engaging Story
Marcura buys Shipdem to boost tanker claims
Chemical tanker demurrage remains one of the most technical and commercially sensitive areas in shipping. A new acquisition strengthens specialist capability in end to end claims handling, combining software driven efficiency with deep chemical trade expertise. For owners and managers exposed to complex charterparty disputes, this move signals a more structured approach to protecting cash flow and reducing friction.






