DNV launches AROS
(Posted on 19/01/25)
DNV has launched a new family of class notations, Autonomous and Remotely Operated Ships (AROS), providing a framework for how autoremote vessels can achieve equivalent or higher safety compared to conventional vessels.
Autonomous shipping, ranging from remote control operation to fully unmanned vessels, marks a major advancement in the maritime industry. These solutions can deliver a wide range of benefits including improved safety, optimised logistics chains, improved cargo capacity due to reductions in crew, increased fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and reduced operational and maintenance costs.
While these advancements hold great promise, regulatory frameworks are still being developed. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is developing a code for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), expected to be voluntary from 2025. However, this will not be mandatory until 2032, driving the need for a developmental framework for related technologies. DNV’s AROS notations provide the industry with the necessary structure for the future development of autonomous shipping technologies, in close cooperation with the flag and coastal states which hold ultimate approval responsibility.
“Autonomous shipping, in all its formats, is a key part of the future development of shipping,” says Geir Dugstad, Technical Director, Classification at DNV Maritime. “With the AROS notations, we will see novel autonomous and remotely controlled pilot projects achieving at least the same safety levels as conventional vessels. When the technology from these pilots becomes available for seafarers, features such as collision and grounding avoidance, vessel lookup support, and remote machinery support can help improve safety and reliability.”
The AROS family of class notations covers four specific functions for autonomous ships – navigation, engineering, operational, and safety – and will also be distinguished by category (remote control, decision support, supervised autonomy, full autonomy) and location of ship control (onboard, off-ship, or hybrid). These definitions are in line with the current plans for IMO’s upcoming MASS code.
The notations incorporate and build on DNV guideline (DNV-CG-0264) for autonomous vessels, combining the guideline’s broad risk assessment processes for the qualification of autonomous and remotely operated marine technologies with a set of functional requirements. This approach is deliberately flexible in nature, creating the space for future innovation, while also drawing on DNV’s experience with industry partners in project development within the autonomous shipping space over the past decade.
Latest News
MIS launches as new global media platform
(Posted on 30/07/25)Maritime Information Services (MIS) has officially launched as a global media platform delivering daily... Read more
Russian and Ukrainian seafarers continue struggle with psychiatric fallout of war
(Posted on 30/07/25)Russian and Ukrainian seafarers continue to experience significant psychological strain following the... Read more
Noatum expands global footprint with inauguration of Shanghai office
(Posted on 30/07/25)Noatum Maritime, part of AD Ports Group’s Maritime & Shipping Cluster, announced the official... Read more
Smart Ship Hub emission reporting first through Asiatic Lloyd partnership
(Posted on 21/07/25)Leading vessel optimisation platform Smart Ship Hub has announced its partnership with AL Group &ndash... Read more
KR Representative LEE Jungkun Elected Chair of IACS Safety Panel
(Posted on 21/07/25)KR (Korean Register) has announced that LEE Jungkun, General Manager of KR’s Convention &... Read more
INTERCARGO-member fleets outperform on safety and compliance
(Posted on 17/07/25)Dry bulk carriers entered with the International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) continue... Read more
NEMO strengthens global role with official status from IMO and IAEA
(Posted on 15/07/25)The Nuclear Energy Maritime Organization (NEMO) is proud to announce that it has officially been granted... Read more
Industry statement on recent Red Sea attacks on shipping
(Posted on 09/07/25)ICS, BIMCO, European Shipowners | ECSA, INTERCARGO and INTERTANKO have released a joint industry statement... Read more
NovaAlgoma Cement Carriers establishes new JV with DP World
(Posted on 08/07/25)NovaAlgoma Cement Carriers Limited, a joint venture between Algoma Central Corporation and Nova Marine... Read more
Julia Ju appointed The Swedish Club’s new Chief Executive in Hong Kong
(Posted on 08/07/25)The Swedish Club has announced the appointment of Julia Ju as the new Chief Executive and Area Manager... Read more
