ABB
Year Founded: 1988
Employee Count: 100K+
ABB is a pioneering technology company with a comprehensive offering for digital industries. ABB has recently added an automated digital steering function for its azipod electric propulsion system, which minimises fuel consumption and emissions by automatically selecting the optimal steering angle for maximum propulsion efficiency. The company has also launched a new emissions monitoring solution to help the maritime industry keep track of its CO2 footprint in order to reach the industry’s decarbonisation targets.
ABS (American Bureau of Shipping)
Year Founded: 1862
Employee Count: 1K-5K
ABS is a classification society committed to setting standards for safety and excellence within the maritime industry. In the past year, ABS has explored the possibility of nuclear-powered commercial vessels, launched a simulation technology to assess the impact of a wide range of vessel decarbonisation technologies, and partnered with MARIN to help facilitate the uptake of wind propulsion vessels to help with shipping decarbonisation.
Alfa Laval
Year Founded: 1883
Employee Count: 10K-50K
Alfa Laval is a leading global provider of specialised products and engineering solutions based on its vital heat transfer, separation and fluid hand technologies. Alfa Laval has been involved in some innovative ideas over the past year. They have partnered with Wallenius to develop wind powered technologies to reduce emissions by 90% on the largest ocean-going vessels. Alfa Laval has also signed an agreement with a leading marine tank cleaning equipment supplier. The deal shall add ScanJet’s intelligent tank management solutions to Alfa Laval’s already broad tanker offering.
Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement
Year Founded: 1883
Employee Count: 10K-50K
Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM) is an integrated maritime solutions provider and one of the world’s top-ranking ship managers in the gas, tanker, offshore, container, bulk and cruise sectors. BSM has launched BSM NiumPay, a digital payment platform for seafarers and their families to manage their finances quickly and efficiently. The new payment platform provides seafarers with a multi-currency eWallet and a complimentary VISA card. As well as this, BSM owns MariApps, the software startup behind the SmartPAL fleet management software system.
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Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore
Year Founded: 1828
Employee Count: 10K-50K
Bureau Veritas is a French classification society. They are a global leader in Testing, Inspection and Certification (TIC), delivering high quality services to help clients meet the growing challenges of quality, safety, environmental protection and social responsibility. They have recently issued a new biofuel ready notation to support the wider deployment of biofuels in the shipping industry. This will help ship owners prepare to adopt biofuels in the future by creating full documentation displaying the requirements needed so that biofuel can be used on ships safely.
ClassNK
Year Founded: 1899
Employee Count: 1K-5K
An independent classification society dedicated to ensuring the safety of life and property at sea and the prevention of pollution of the marine environment. ClassNk has been working with Japanese shipping giant Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, which plans to enhance the safety of its fleet’s navigational risk monitoring system by being capable of predicting the danger of grounding and alerting shoreside team members. The software was developed in partnership with Finnish data and software provider NAPA. In July 2022, ClassNk published their “ClassNK Technical Jornural”, which will contribute to the development of knowledge on zero-emission ships. The journal’s emphasis shows efforts in planning and designing the next generation of greener ships, the development of onboard CO2 capture systems and efforts to reduce GHG emissions.
CMA CGM
Year Founded: 1978
Employee Count: 10K-50K
CMA CGM Group is a world leader in shipping and logistics. The company has expressed interest in decarbonising its fleet and has recently ordered its first methanol powered container ships. CMA CGM has also signed a memorandum of understanding with PSA Corp, to develop and implement sustainable solutions at Lion City Terminal. The Opt-E-Arrival aims to optimise voyages so that vessels that arrive at PSA’s terminals in Singapore do not have to wait at anchorages. This solution could save the shipping company up to 7% in fuel.
Damen Shipyards Group
Year Founded: 1927
Employee Count: 5K-10K
Damen stands for fellowship, craftsmanship, entrepreneurship and stewardship. Damen has launched their new all-electric tug, which has a bollard pull of 70 tonnes and can assist the largest vessels in New Zealand port. The tug results from a 6 year collaboration between Damen and Auckland Ports, which has set a target of zero emissions by 2040. The tug can undertake two or more assignments before a 2 hour recharging process.
DNV
Year Founded: 1864
Employee Count: 10K-50K
DNV is an international classification society. They operate in over 100 countries and employ more than 11,000 people globally. Some examples of DNV’s work in innovation over the last year includes; partnering up with DSME to develop a wind-assisted population system; launching a new digital tool to support their customers in ensuring their compliance with the upcoming energy efficiency existing ship index; and partnering with SHI to develop innovative shipping technology to create unmanned ships controlled by an operator from a control centre ashore.
E2Open
Year Founded: 2000
Employee Count: 1K-5K
E2Open develops software to create a connected, intelligent supply chain. In the last five years E2Open have made a wide range of acquisitions of logistics technology businesses including execution platform BluJay solutions, trade management system Amber Road, and ocean booking platform INTTRA to name a few.
Hapag-Lloyd
Year Founded: 1847
Employee Count: 10K-50K
Hapag-Lloyd is a global container shipping and logistics industry. In August 2022, the company began installing tracking devices on its containers at its depots worldwide as they start offering their new Hapag-Lloyd Live product to customers in early 2023. Nexxiot and Orbcomm shall supply the trackers. Hapag Lloyd’s vision is to build the smartest container fleet in the world and provide its customers with valuable information at the frequency they need.
Inmarsat
Year Founded: 1979
Employee Count: 1K-5K
Inmarsat was initially set up by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 1979 to provide a satellite communications network that would protect the lives of mariners anywhere at sea. To support the ongoing development of the digitalisation of the global maritime industry, Inmarsat recently announced the development of Orchestra; a connectivity solution bringing together L-band, Ka-band, terrestrial 5G, and LEO satellite services into a single integrated network. In 2022, it was announced that Inmarsat would be merging with US satellite provider Viasat to combine forces in a $7.3bn deal.
Iridium
Year Founded: 2000
Employee Count: 251-1K
The Iridium constellation of low-Earth orbiting cross-linked satellites provides critical voice and data services for areas not served by terrestrial communication networks. Iridium recently launched its Edge Solar Star. This is a secure, maintenance-free solar-powered remote asset tracking and management device. The system benefits from over-the-air configuration capabilities and is ideal for vessel monitoring systems, fisheries management, tracking freight shipping containers and monitoring of oil and gas pipelines.
Kongsberg
Year Founded: 1814
Employee Count: 1K-5K
Konsberg was founded in 1814 in Norway and today is one of the biggest maritime technology companies in the world. They employ more than 11,000 people in 40 countries with global operations. In April 2022, Kongsberg Digital announced the acquisition of Interconsult Bulgaria Ltd, a software developer and supplier of process modelling, software architecture design, quality assurance and 3D modelling. The company’s acquisition aims to support the roll-out of its leading digital positions in the energy and maritime sectors to support the growth of renewables.
Kongsberg Digital has also partnered with Höegh Autoline as they aim to be the first pilot customers for a new maritime digital twin service to support vessel trim advisory, 3D visualisations and situational awareness. The digital twin will be powered by real-time data from Kongsberg shipboard vessel insight data infrastructure and its related ecosystem of applications. The objective of the digital twin is to support partners in utilising advanced simulations to troubleshoot operations, make predictions of future performance, and enable condition-based maintenance to reduce costs and operations.
KVH
Year Founded: 1982
Employee Count: 251-1000
KVH Industries is a leader in mobile connectivity and inertial navigation systems. In 2021, KVH began onboard trials for their new cloud connect service, KVH Watch. The program is designed to deliver an edge-to-cloud IoT connectivity solution for stakeholders in the maritime industry. Vessel owners and operators can see operation data in real-time, such as noon reports, MRV reports or energy efficiency existing ship index compliance. Since its launch, KVH Watch has enabled connectivity for partners including Navis Engineering, Lloyd’s Register, TechBinder, and Kilo Marine.
Lloyd’s Register
Year Founded: 1760
Employee Count: 5K-10K
Lloyd’s Register was founded in 1760 as a marine classification society. Today, they are one of the world’s leading providers of professional marine technology and engineering services. Over the last two years, LR has completed a range of acquisitions in the maritime technology sector including the voyage management technology platform OneOcean and the voyage optimisation software provider GreenSteam.
As well as acquiring and developing a range of software tools, Lloyd’s Register is also working to accelerate the growth of the wider safety technology sector through its non-profit subsidiary Safetytech Accelerator.
In 2021, Lloyd’s Register launched an artificial intelligence register to act as a standardised directory of LR certified AI providers to the maritime industry. The classification society has also recently partnered with Inmarsat to deliver remote surveys to vessels while at sea.
Maersk
Year Founded: 1904
Employee Count: 10K-50K
Maersk is the world’s second largest container ship operator. Headquartered in Copenhagen, they have offices around the world and operate a fleet of more than 700 ships. Maersk has taken an early lead in the development of alternative fuels, ordering 13 new 16,000 TEU vessels that can be powered by traditional fossil fuels or green methanol. They plan to have their first ship operating on green methanol by 2023, with twelve more entering operations by 2025.
MAN Energy Solutions
Year Founded: 1937
Employee Count: 10K-50K
MAN Energy Solutions is an engine manufacturer that employs 14,000 people at over 120 sites globally. MAN Energy Solutions has recently begun the AmmoniaMot project, which aims to define the steps necessary to produce a dual-fuel, medium-speed engine capable of running on diesel fuel and ammonia. This comes as 23 companies across the maritime industry have signed an MoU to study the common issues around using ammonia as a marine fuel.
Mitsui OSK Lines Ltd
Year Founded: 1942
Employee Count: 251-1K
Mitsui OSK Lines develop global industries and more prosperous communities, which is part of their corporate social responsibility. Last year it was announced that MOL and Meltin MMI had signed a memorandum of understanding to install Meltin’s remotely controlled robots onboard MOL’s vessels. The robotic technology is being developed to be used in dangerous, time-consuming work or duties in extraordinarily high and low-temperature environments. The technology will also help reduce the workload on seafarers, particularly in tasks that present challenges to hands-on operations.
In the past, MOL has expressed interest in pursuing wind-assisted propulsion and fluid dynamics for improved performance. To further the research of making this a possibility, MOL will join a joint research effort to apply aerospace engineering technologies to improve the performance of wind-powered vessels.
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MSC
Year Founded: 1970
Employee Count: 10K-50K
MSC is a global business engaged in the shipping and logistics sector. Over the years, MSC has diversified its activities to include overland transportation, logistics and a growing portfolio of port terminal investments. Today, their focus remains on building and retaining long-term trusted partnerships with customers of all sizes and scales.
MSC has agreed on a deal with SatCom service provider Marlink to implement an IT network management system to increase the standardisation of its system onboard 127 vessels. The new network management system will allow MSC’s Fleet managers to monitor shipboard IT systems and software from the shoreside, providing remote access for monitoring and troubleshooting.
MSC has also signed for the construction of two new luxury cruise ships powered partly by hydrogen fuel cells. The new cruise ships will be an industry first and allow zero-emissions operations while in port. The hydrogen fuel will power a 6-megawatt fuel cell to produce emissions-free power for the hotel operation and allow the vessels to run in port with the engines turned off.
NAPA
Year Founded: 1989
Employee Count: 251-1K
Napa is an independent software house supplying the marine industry with high-end software solutions from ship design to operations. NAPA has recently launched NAPA Viewer, a collaborative web application to provide users involved in the shipbuilding process with visibility of the most current 3D ship model via browsers and the ability to comment on the model directly.
NAPA has also partnered with international law firm Stephenson Harwood and a group of maritime stakeholders to resolve the ubiquitous sail fast and wait phenomenon which wastes fuel on unnecessary fast transits. NAPA’s Blue Visby Solution is based on software optimised speed and weather routing and incorporates a contractual framework to address the problem of split incentives. This software enables shipowners, charters and cargo interests to share the costs and benefits of reducing speed, saving fuel and saving costs of lengthier journeys.
NYK Line
Year Founded: 1885
Employee Count: 10K-50K
NYK Line is a major Japanese shipowner. The company was founded in 1885 in Tokyo and today employs more than 50,000 people worldwide. In 2021, NYK Line announced its collaboration with Ocra AI to test its safety system for autonomous ships. Ocra AI’s Automatic Ship Target Recognition System has been installed on NYK Ships for research on the future of autonomous operations within the maritime industry. Their objective is to verify whether the safety of the ship’s operation can be improved by automating the task of recognising dangerous objects.
NYK and Astomos Energy Corporation have participated in a marine biofuel demonstration project launched by the Global Center for Maritime Decarbonisation, which aims to promote the decarbonisation of the maritime industry. NYK has also invested in Sustainable Energy CO, A firm developing novel technology which subcritical water treatment to convert organic waste into fuel.
They have also secured approval in principle from the classification society ClassNK for an ammonia bunkering vessel, which is claimed to be the first in Japan. This aim is to lower greenhouse gas emissions in its oceangoing shipping business, and it has set a 2050 net-zero emissions target. NYK are engaged in developing zero-emission ships that will operate on low environmental impact ammonia, hydrogen and other marine fuels.
OneWeb
Year Founded: 2012
Employee Count: 251-1000
OneWeb is a global communications company that aims to connect everyone, everywhere. Through a global constellation of satellites in Low Earth Orbit, OneWeb will be able to deliver high-speed, low-latency services everywhere. Half the world’s population still lacks access to the Internet, and in many areas, access is still inconsistent. OneWeb and Marlink have also partnered for the first live maritime trail of LEO connectivity service. They have announced plans to conduct the first at sea trial of OneWeb’s Low Earth Orbit maritime service. This is a huge milestone for OneWeb as its LEO constellation may revolutionise connectivity at sea, delivering high speed, low latency and globally consistent experience to all maritime users.
PSA Marine
Year Founded: 1997
Employee Count: 251-1K
PSA Marine is a leading marine service provider with flagship operations in Singapore. Their dedicated professionals and a modern fleet team have gained a strong foothold in core businesses, towage and pilotage. PSA Marine has developed and launched more than 50 Application Programming Interfaces that will enable digital transformation and enhance digital integration within the haulage industry in Singapore.
Shell
Year Founded: 1907
Employee Count: 10K-50K
Shell is a global energy major. Shell has partnered with uncrewed offshore survey and inspection company Nauticus Robotics to develop a system for inspecting subsea infrastructure. Working with inspection on tooling service providers, Shell and Nauticus will work on operational qualification for Nauticus Aquanaut and Hydronaut autonomous platforms.
Veson Nautical
Year Founded: 2003
Employee Count: 251-1000
Veson Nautical develops, implements and supports solutions that propel maritime commerce. They deliver a commercial platform driven by a commitment to continual innovation, a spirit of collaboration and an unwavering focus on client success.
In 2021 Veson Nautical announced that they had acquired Oceanbolt, a dynamic data solutions product for bulk commodity trade flow analysis and marine shipping intelligence. Shortly after this acquisition, the company announced another acquisition of Q88, an information management and software platform for the shipping industry. Venson is also working with Marcura, a maritime solutions provider and developer of PortLog. They have announced that the two companies shall be integrating two systems to help ship owners, operators and charters more accurately plan and execute their port call to manage risk and improve operations, cost, and environmental efficiencies within the power stay part of a commercial voyage charter.
Wärtsilä
Year Founded: 1834
Employee Count: 10K-50K
Wärtsilä describes itself as a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets. They emphasise innovation concerning sustainable technology and services to ensure that their customers continuously improve their environmental and economic performance.
Wärtsilä and the Port of Tanger Med have recently teamed up to develop a new Port Management Information System (PMIS) that aims to enhance operational efficiency, port safety and environmental sustainability via data exchange. The new technology shall offer innovative port tools, including just-in-time solutions, machining learning and AI for the digitalisation of port operations. The system shall help maritime liners and alliances streamline vessel calls and use standardised master and event data at the Tanger Med Port Complex.
Wilhelmsen
Year Founded: 1861
Employee Count: 10K-50K
The Wilhelmsen group operates one of the largest maritime networks on the planet. Delivering market-leading products and services to over half of the world’s merchant fleet, they also supply crew and technical management to the biggest and most complex vessels currently at sea. Wilhelmsen has been active in the development of aerial drones for ships agency services as well as the development of autonomous vessel management capabilities
Yara International ASA
Year Founded: 1905
Employee Count: 10K-50K
Yara has established a unique position as the industry’s only global crop nutrition company. Yara is currently constructing the Yara Birkeland, a fully electric autonomous container ship, for coastal transport of its products. Yara has created the world’s first zero-emission ship, which can transport cargo autonomously. It was first conceptualised in 2017, but it appears to be making its first voyage with no crew members onboard later this year in Norway.
Onboard the autonomous ship, YARA has partnered with MacGregor, who shall supply the vessel with an automated mooring system. This shall enable mooring operations without human intervention and support effective operations of the fully electric zero-emission ship.
ZIM Integrated Shipping Services
Year Founded: 1945
Employee Count: 5K-10K
Zim Integrated Shipping Services is an asset-light container liner shipping company. They provide their customers with innovative seaborne transportation and logistics solutions. The company has developed an artificial intelligence software programme known as ZIMGuard. The software scans shipment cargo declarations at an early stage to detect potential cases of wrongly declared cargo, minimising the risks of carriage.
