Wedoany.com Report-Jun 10, The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK), and NYK’s Monohakobi Technology Institute (MTI) have partnered to conduct port-to-port maritime autonomous surface ship (MASS) trials. The collaboration, announced during a workshop in Singapore attended by representatives from Japanese and Singaporean maritime sectors, aims to advance autonomous shipping technologies.

The trials will test the integration of autonomous ships with port systems, including MPA’s Vessel Traffic Information System, to establish standards for navigation safety, route planning, fuel efficiency, AI-driven decision-making, communications, and cybersecurity in the Port of Singapore. Hideki Suzuki, President of MTI, stated: “This joint workshop marks an important step forward in the development of autonomous navigation systems.”

Muhammad Segar, MPA Chief Marine Officer, added: “This collaboration represented an important platform to test and validate new operational concepts in Singapore’s port waters.” He noted that the trials will contribute to safer, smarter, and more sustainable autonomous shipping practices.

This initiative builds on a July 2024 memorandum of understanding between MPA and NYK, which focused on maritime decarbonization, digitalization, and workforce development. The agreement included efforts to promote alternative marine fuels, such as biofuels, methanol, and low- or zero-carbon ammonia, and explore training programs for ammonia-fueled vessels and sustainability skills.

MASS technologies aim to enhance safety, sustainability, and efficiency in shipping by combining crew expertise with AI-driven systems. Singapore, a major global port, has been proactive in MASS development, including a 2020 agreement with countries like China, Japan, and Norway to address autonomous shipping challenges. However, global adoption depends on regulatory frameworks, with the International Maritime Organization developing a mandatory MASS Code, expected to be implemented by 2028 and fully obligatory by 2032.

The collaboration between MPA, NYK, and MTI supports Singapore’s role as a hub for maritime innovation, fostering sustainable and efficient shipping solutions for the future.