ViganCimbriaTelestackSailors SocietyVan AalstBühler GmbH
  • TBA Group
  • Vigan
  • Port of Stockton
  • Bühler GmbH
  • Van Aalst
  • Sailors Society

ClassNK grants AiP for autonomous framework

(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.

Latest News

AtoB@C Shipping takes delivery of Fleximar

(Posted on 23/12/25)

AtoB@C Shipping, a subsidiary of ESL Shipping, has announced the successful delivery of Fleximar, the... Read more


Western Bulk re-enters ship ownership with selected partners

(Posted on 18/12/25)

Western Bulk, together with reputable Norwegian partners A/S J. Ludwig Mowinckels Rederi, Premium Maritime... Read more


Pacific Basin announces formation of a Sustainable Energy Solutions team

(Posted on 18/12/25)

Pacific Basin Shipping Limited, one of the world’s leading dry bulk shipping companies, has announced... Read more


Columbia expects significant growth as more owners shift operations to the UAE

(Posted on 09/12/25)

Columbia Group anticipates a period of strong expansion as an increasing number of international shipowners... Read more


Norse Ship Management emerges as digital leader among new-generation ship managers

(Posted on 09/12/25)

Norse?Ship Management has expanded its use of Smart Ship Hub’s high frequency sensor data and... Read more


Maritime health experts welcome STCW amendments, but urge against checkbox compliance

(Posted on 09/12/25)

As the maritime industry gears up to welcome the IMO’s STCW bullying and harassment training amendments... Read more


NORDEN acquires Southern African cargo activities of Taylor Maritime

(Posted on 02/12/25)

NORDEN has acquired the cargo activities of Taylor Maritime in Southern Africa (previously operated... Read more


IMO delay could spark fragmentation risks, warns EmissionLink

(Posted on 02/12/25)

Philippos Ioulianou, Managing Director of EmissionLink, has warned the IMO’s decision to delay... Read more


VIKAND highlights bullying and harassment as major mental health concern

(Posted on 02/12/25)

VIKAND has highlighted the need for cultural change in the maritime sector as reports of bullying, harassment... Read more


DNV and WMMF guide to support shipowners' path to net-zero

(Posted on 24/11/25)

The maritime industry is experiencing a period of significant transformation, driven by rapidly evolving... Read more


Port of South LouisianaTBA GroupPort of StocktonGeneva Dry
  • Port of South Louisiana
  • Cimbria

Subscribe to our newsletter

Keep up to date with the latest global news in bulk cargo handling and shipping