Lloyd’s Register (LR) has brought maritime connectivity and cyber security specialist Marlink into its Digital Transformation Research Programme to study how shipowners, system integrators and class should manage increasingly complex digital systems on board ships, according to Lloyd’s Register.
The research will focus first on cyber security and connectivity, which LR identifies as critical enablers of digital adoption as vessels become more data-driven and connected.
The work will examine how responsibilities are split between shipowners, system integrators and classification societies as regulatory expectations and operating models change.
LR said the project will draw on practical experience from a shipowner involved in a newbuilding programme, covering how digital requirements are specified, implemented and managed from design and construction through to vessel operation and recycling.
The collaboration builds on LR’s Digital Maturity Index, which has completed assessments at more than 50 shipping companies.
LR said the findings show connectivity and cyber security are among the more mature areas of maritime digital development, while exposing gaps between ambition and execution.
“The initial findings from our Digital Maturity Index highlight that cyber security and connectivity are gaining ground, supporting maritime’s digital journey, yet their full potential is still untapped,” said Mark Warner, client marketing director at Lloyd’s Register.
Marlink president maritime Tore Morten Olsen said vessels are becoming “increasingly software-defined and connected”, creating challenges across “often highly fragmented digital ecosystems”.
Lloyd’s Register is a UK-based classification society and professional services organisation that provides classification, compliance, advisory and assurance services to the maritime and industrial sectors.
Marlink is a maritime communications, network and cyber security services provider supplying connectivity and digital infrastructure for vessels, offshore assets and remote operations.
