How technology will change shipping in 2022

The adoption of cloud technology will continue to accelerate in 2022. Many shipowners and operators have been taking advantage of cloud computing to provide end-to-end visibility and proactive control of transportation and logistics by applying artificial intelligence (AI).

“Cloud providers host thousands of applications, and their capabilities can provide actionable knowledge on demand and cost-saving opportunities, said Mr Eerland.  

All this needs reliable communications through satellite, VSAT and long-term evolution/4G networks for vessel and fleet connectivity, which can also be used by the seafarers on board.

“With advanced connectivity technologies comes the opportunity to support crew with more than just the tools to execute their work,” he continued.

“Helping them stay connected to friends and family back home and enjoy digital entertainment has become imperative to offer personnel on board, as crews are at sea for extended periods of time,” Mr Eerland said.

“The feeling of isolation that remote work environments can cause may be eased thanks to hybrid networks that can deliver both VSAT and LTE options, delivering seamless connectivity to watch films or to take a video call.”

These solutions can serve the safety and entertainment needs of seafarers without interrupting corporate networks.

Mitigating cyber risk

With this connectivity comes the need to mitigate cyber risks to shipping, seafarers and company networks.

“As digital transformation is accelerated across the industry, adopting stringent cyber-security measures will continue to be a necessity for shipping companies,” Mr Eerland explained.

Cyber-security threats have real-world impacts, such as unlawful discharges, engine problems and ransomware attacks that shut down the systems vessels depend on.

“As cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated and regulations change and adapt, organisations will never be done securing their systems or assets,” said Mr Eerland.

“There is no single technology solution that can defend against all threats, which means training staff, establishing proper security procedures, and utilising best-in-breed technology is essential.”

To create end-to-end integration of security across operations, a strategic approach which considers all the business needs and risks is necessary to assess an organisation’s shore-based and fleet operating environments.

“End-point protection will help secure computers and IoT devices against known threats by global signatures, and centralised firewall and filtering services will help prevent unknown threats, across both simple and complex networks,” said Mr Eerland.

“With so many technology solutions to navigate, having a built-in network management solution to manage and monitor connected systems, allocate bandwidth, provide enhanced cyber security, and deliver morale-boosting crew connectivity services will be a pivotal turning point for the maritime sector on its digitalisation journey.”