The partners companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Singapore on Wednesday to co-operate on the ‘Development of Ocean-going Autonomous Navigation System on a Marine Asset’. The MoU forms the foundation of the Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) funded ‘World’s Largest Ocean-Going Autonomous Vessel Programme’.
“LR’s involvement in this project builds on the capability and experience already gained from our partnership in other industry-leading and world first autonomous projects,” said Andy McKeran, LR commercial director Marine & Offshore.
Seatrade Maritime News is reporting Live from Sea Asia 2019
“However, this project, a world first for the deployment of autonomous navigational technology to an ocean-going vessel for commercial operations, pushes the boundaries of autonomous technology and moves the industry towards deployment of autonomous navigation systems onboard vessels for enhanced performance and critically, safety.”
The development of autonomous shipping has raised concerns over seafarers jobs, but McKaren commented: “Autonomous systems will also provide opportunities for skilled seafarers to focus on what they do best, and the safe and sustainable integration of autonomous systems relies on the appropriate engagement with seafaring professionals.”
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