ABS highlights technology shaping maritime’s future

Rapid technological advances are reshaping shipping, with artificial intelligence, autonomous systems and connected digital platforms driving changes across fleets, ports and maritime operations, according to ABS chair and chief executive John McDonald.

Speaking at the ABS North America Regional Committee Meeting in New York, McDonald highlighted the growing influence of AI, smart shipping, alternative fuels, cybersecurity and cloud computing as the industry becomes increasingly data-driven.

“As new technologies move from development into daily operations, owners, shipyards and regulators need support they can rely on,” McDonald said. “ABS and its affiliated companies bring technology leadership, safety expertise, industrial support and regulatory insight to help the industry work through that change.”

McDonald identified robotics, nuclear energy, digital twins and AI as important technologies being developed for maritime applications. He also discussed US maritime revitalisation, emphasising that rebuilding the sector requires investment beyond shipbuilding, encompassing shipyards, workforce development, technology, supply chains and fleet capacity.

The meeting also explored how digitalisation could improve operational efficiency, cybersecurity and emissions performance. Daryl Willis, Microsoft corporate vice president for the Energy and Resources Industry, discussed the role of AI, cloud computing and data-driven technologies in transforming shipping and supporting optimisation across maritime operations.

Ellen Zentner, Morgan Stanley chief economic strategist and global head of thematic and macro investing, presented an outlook for shipping and transportation markets, including capital markets and financing trends.

Committee chair James Sagar, chief executive of Hanwha Shipping and president of Hanwha Maritime Solutions, said collaboration would be essential to turning innovation into practical results.

“At both ABS and Hanwha, we believe the future of our industry will be shaped by market-driven solutions that create lasting value,” Sagar said. He added that progress must be safe, practical, scalable and commercially sustainable.

Members also received updates on technology from Patrick Ryan, ABS senior vice president and chief technology officer; US maritime activity from David Walker, ABS vice president of global government; and ABS Group developments from its president and chief executive, Dave Wechsler, and AI Center vice president Matt Mowrer.