Autonomous and remotely-operated ships

Autonomous shipping is currently not fully regulated by IACS or the IMO which means that, currently, it is up to the individual flag states to decide how to regulate this in their own regions. However, the IMO is developing a code for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) which is expected to be ready for voluntary use in 2025. Between 2026 and 2028, a so-called experience-building phase takes place for the development of the Mandatory MASS code, which is expected to start in 2028 and be finalised in 2030. The Mandatory MASS code is expected to enter into force in 2032.

Despite not being fully regulated by IMO, the implementation of technological developments is allowed onboard by following the process stated in IMO MSC.1/Circular.1455 – Guidelines for the Approval of Alternatives and Equivalents. This Circular is used to evaluate concepts and systems of novel technology, including autonomous and remote operations. Some flag states have published documents detailing their approach to autonomous vessels, such as the Norwegian Maritime Authority, which published the RSV-12-2020 Guidance in connection with the construction or installation of automated functionality aimed at performing unmanned or partially unmanned operations. Our DNV-CG-0264 uses MSC.1/Circular.1455 as a baseline and, in agreement with the Flag States, can be used to evaluate concepts and systems of autonomous vessels. In this process, DNV takes the role of 3 rd party verifier supporting the Flag administrations and the concept submitters (often vessel owners, or vessel operators) to ensure autoremote vessels are as safe as or safer than conventional vessels.