The maritime industry is witnessing significant technological advancements that are set to reshape its operational practices in the coming years. As businesses navigate the complexities of transitioning to greener fuels and decarbonisation, they are increasingly leveraging digitalisation and artificial intelligence (AI) alongside low-latency connectivity to optimise vessel performance. Maritime Optimisation & Communications observes that this ongoing transformation is marked by several key trends anticipated to dominate by 2025.
One notable development is the shift towards global low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite communications, which have emerged as a critical component in meeting the escalating demand for high-speed data connectivity at sea. Historically, the capacity for satellite communications was insufficient to accommodate the industry's needs. However, the arrival of new LEO satellite constellations, notably Elon Musk's SpaceX Starlink, has revolutionised the landscape for maritime connectivity. This was highlighted by the publication, which noted that Eutelsat's OneWeb is also gaining traction, with additional services expected from Amazon and Telesat.
As a result, vessel operators can now access data speeds of around 200 Mbps per ship, a substantial improvement compared to the maximum of approximately 20 Mbps available through very small aperture terminal (VSAT) systems and significantly lower speeds for L-band. Shipowners are quickly adopting Starlink and similar LEO communications systems, which are poised to replace traditional geostationary (GEO) satellite hardware by 2025, although L-band will still play a role in maritime safety communications.
In parallel, ports globally are investing in advanced communications technologies, including the deployment of 5G mobile networks and planned tests for the upcoming 6G technology. This upgrade is driven by the need for faster, reliable communications capable of supporting rising levels of automation in logistics and vessel operations. The Port of Tyne in the UK has taken a significant step in this direction by installing 5G services and is preparing to trial 6G in collaboration with BT, aiming to position itself as a connectivity hub.
Ports are also developing integrated digital platforms to facilitate communication among stakeholders, including ship agents, cargo owners, and marine service providers. Such initiatives aim to reduce delays and improve energy efficiencies through enhanced collaboration. As these digital solutions expand in the latter half of the decade, they are expected to encourage better port arrival planning and streamline operations across the network of maritime stakeholders.
Together, these advancements signify a major shift in how the maritime industry operates, focusing on greater efficiency and improved connectivity in an increasingly digital world. As these trends unfold, they threaten to redefine not just the technological landscape of shipping and port operations, but also the very fabric of business practices within the sector.
Source: Noah Wire Services