

(Posted on 18/05/20)
Leading Classification Society ClassNK granted an Approval in Principle (AiP) to Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line) and MTI Co., Ltd. MTI) for their joint project on the concept design of an autonomous ship framework (development code “APExS”).
ClassNK is involved in various demonstration projects and continuously works to develop necessary safety standards in order to support the development and implementation of automated/autonomous operation technologies from a safety perspective. In January 2020, the Society released its “Guidelines for Automated/Autonomous Operation of ships" which comprehensively summarize the requirements for each stage of conceptual design, design development, installation, and maintenance during the operation of automated/autonomous operation technologies.
Jointly with NYK Line and MTI, ClassNK verified the safety of system usage conditions, fall back systems, and more toward the development of the autonomous ship framework. The AiP was then granted upon confirming the feasibility of the framework through safety evaluation in line with the above guidelines.
The Society will continue to improve the environment for the use of automated/autonomous operation technologies by providing standards for advanced initiatives and technological verification.
As recent news reports highlight, the shipping industry continues to face threats such as piracy, kidnapping... Read more
Algoma Central Corporation, a leading supplier of marine transportation services, has announced that... Read more
Wavespec, as the last technical entity within Braemar Shipping Services Plc, has announced that it is... Read more
INTERCARGO believes that, once again seafarers are falling victim to the lack of focus and joined up... Read more
As efforts to refloat the Ever Given continue, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has released... Read more
GTMaritime has announced that it has transitioned its business to an Employee Owned Trust (EOT), in... Read more
Leading classification society ClassNK has begun joint investigative research with Sompo Japan Insurance... Read more
Oslo-based global dry bulk operator, Western Bulk has published its 2020 Annual Report with a full year... Read more
International maritime charity Sailors’ Society’s Wellness at Sea training and support reduces... Read more
The Great Eastern Shipping Company Limited (G E Shipping) has signed a contract to buy a second-hand... Read more