MASSPorts is a network formed by states and organisations to address the challenges and align standards for the trials and operation of maritime autonomous surface ships in ports.
The event, held on 4 August 2020, featured representatives from the International Maritime Organisation, International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities, as well as the International Association of Ports and Harbors.
The network’s objectives are to develop detailed guidelines and conditions for MASS trials in port, establish common terminology, form and standards of communication, ship reporting and data exchange to enhance inter-operability of systems across different ports, facilitate port-to-port MASS trials and facilitate MASS trials to emulate the international nature of shipping with the objective of validating the proposed guidelines and conditions for trials and the inter-operability of port-based systems.
Quah Ley Hoon, chief executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, said, “Autonomous navigation is an important part of our plans to be a future-ready port. We see MASS having the potential to enhance navigational safety and increase productivity. We are glad to work with like-minded international partners who are aligned in shaping the future of the international shipping.”