Technology best used to supplement sound navigation basics

Stronger international co-operation, clearer regulations and greater financial support will be essential to help the maritime sector manage geopolitical and economic challenges while continuing its transition toward net zero

It can write your quotes for you and then handle the claims. But other than putting you out of a job, what’s not to like?

The Hormuz crisis has laid bare the vulnerabilities of autonomous vessel systems, with ClassNK president Hayato Suga warning that data manipulation, signal interference and geopolitical instability render AI-driven navigation unsafe in the world’s most volatile waters

Recycling remains at historically low levels, and older tonnage keeps on earning, which is putting greater demand on classification societies

Artificial intelligence is beginning to deliver real operational value in shipping, but only for companies that have already laid the digital groundwork

Speaking at Posidonia, ABS chief executive John McDonald said shipping is entering a critical phase where technological capability is accelerating faster than the industry’s ability to absorb it, creating rising risk, higher costs and mounting pressure on crews. Closing this gap, he argued, will define the sector’s future competitiveness and safety performance

New Chinese vessel valuation platform promises data sovereignty, but global acceptance remains an open question

The guidelines come into effect in July 2026, with a mandatory code not expected to be adopted until 2032