The voice of IT Leadership in the commercial maritime industry
Editor’s Note
Digital risk, environmental responsibility and decarbonisation credibility are reshaping how shipowners manage fleets.
Today’s stories show how cyber vulnerabilities, satellite signal interference and new detection technologies are changing operational realities at sea. At the same time, scrutiny of fuel saving claims and national decarbonisation programmes reflects a growing demand for transparency and measurable progress. Together, they illustrate how shipping is moving from ambition to operational accountability.
Communications & Cyber Security
NavBox flaw raises cyber risks for shipowners, according to Cydome
A newly disclosed vulnerability in a widely used vessel connectivity gateway highlights how cyber risk is expanding as ships become more connected. Researchers warn that operational technology systems on board modern vessels are increasingly exposed as satellite broadband and digital platforms link ships to shore. With maritime cyberattacks rising sharply, shipowners and fleet managers are being forced to reassess how onboard systems are secured and monitored.
Communications & Cyber Security
Orca AI warns on GPS spoofing risks
GPS spoofing and AIS disruption in conflict zones are creating new operational risks for commercial vessels. Shipping companies are being warned that satellite positioning systems, once considered reliable, can now be manipulated in ways that distort the navigational picture on the bridge. As interference spreads across key shipping regions, ship managers are being urged to strengthen layered situational awareness beyond satellite signals.
Software, Big Data & IoT
AI whale detection gains traction at sea
Artificial intelligence and thermal imaging are moving onto commercial vessels as shipowners seek practical ways to reduce whale strikes. A new detection system can identify marine mammals several kilometres away and alert bridge teams in real time. As environmental scrutiny intensifies, operators are exploring technologies that help crews respond earlier and operate more responsibly in sensitive waters.
Where operational excellence meets net zero ambition
Propulsion and future fuels
Thetius challenges shipping’s 5–10% fuel claim
Shipowners are being urged to question the industry’s most common efficiency promise. New research suggests that widely quoted 5 to 10 percent fuel saving claims are often difficult to verify under real operating conditions. As decarbonisation pressures grow, the sector is facing calls for clearer measurement standards and stronger evidence before efficiency technologies are widely adopted.
Propulsion and future fuels
India and Lloyd’s Register advance green shipping
India is working with international advisers to strengthen regulation as it expands and modernises its maritime sector. The programme aims to support digital transformation, cleaner shipping and stronger governance frameworks across ports and fleets. The initiative reflects how governments are increasingly linking maritime growth with decarbonisation and regulatory reform.
Yesterday’s Most Engaging Story
ABL advances DP2 retrofit reliability
Offshore vessel operators continue to look for engineering solutions that improve dynamic positioning reliability and charterer confidence. A new stern thruster changeover concept approved by class aims to strengthen system resilience during thruster transfer. The development reflects growing interest in retrofit solutions that address operational risk in demanding offshore environments.