Quality Assurance challenge for connected and smart maritime operations

The Maritime space is responsible for over 80% of the world’s trade and plays a critical role in our digital infrastructure, whilst the health of our seas and oceans are core to our planet’s climate and food supplies.  As a result we are seeing an explosion in new fuel, vessel and port technologies. Digitalization of the marine sector will enable smarter and greener shipping corridors and greater efficiencies. And with the huge increase in demand for reliable and real time data, connectivity is critical to all of these.

Uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), Maritime autonomous systems (MAS), and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) are rapidly gaining adoption. Remote Operating Centres (ROCs) are becoming crucial as they manage multiple offshore assets, improving efficiency, safety, and reducing costs by centralizing expertise and lowering onboard personnel needs. However, challenges remain in ensuring reliable communication between ROCs and offshore assets.

Effective connectivity allows real-time telemetry, command and control, and regulatory compliance, while reliable PNT services are essential for safe navigation and emergency response. The industry’s shift towards autonomy makes communication quality vital, though issues like low bandwidth, interference, and latency persist.

The workshop will bring together thought leaders and experts across the Maritime, Digital and Telecoms industries alongside leading research and academic bodies.

A combination of short presentations combined with round table discussions will set out to:

• Describe the problem space across different maritime domains – inland, coastal, deep blue.
• Consider the multi dimensional nature and importance of communications in the maritime space.
• Identify current and future technologies and accompanying business models which can address the key challenges.
• Propose a common position for research activities to support international collaboration.