AI Meets Maritime Experience

AI Meets Maritime Experience

Introduction

As AI and automation drive productivity in maritime operations, there's growing concern over the decline in traditional seafarer skills and onboard knowledge transfer. This trend poses significant implications for vessel security and operational integrity.

Industry context

The maritime sector relies on skilled crew to manage security threats like piracy, smuggling, and cyberattacks—risks not fully mitigated by automation. ISPS Code compliance and IMO regulations require human oversight, especially during routing through high-risk areas or when cyber defences are tested. AI-supported systems are valuable, but cannot replace the experience-based decisions that protect ships and ports.

Practical measures

• Maintain qualified onboard watchkeeping personnel even with AI-assisted navigation.
• Embed AI-awareness and digital security into standard maritime training programmes.
• Conduct regular drills simulating both physical and cyber breaches to preserve response readiness.
• Deploy intel-led routing strategies, especially in piracy-prone regions.
• Update SOPs to define clear roles for human decision-makers in AI-integrated operations.

Further resources

Learn how our team integrates innovation with field expertise on our capabilities page, or review our secure maritime services.

Source

Original article: Splash247: AI is hollowing out the talent ladder

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Prepared by MS Security Group — experts in vessel protection, anti-piracy, and counter-narcotics operations.