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Future Focus

Autonomous Maritime
Systems

Autonomous vessels are not a distant aspiration — they are being deployed today. SeaGig is building the expertise to serve this transformation across every layer of the autonomy stack.

IMO MASS Framework

The Four Degrees of Maritime Autonomy

The IMO's Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) framework defines four degrees of autonomy — from ship automation with human oversight through to fully autonomous vessels. SeaGig's work spans Degrees 1 through 3, with research focus on Degree 4 architectures.

Degree 1
Ship with Automated Processes
Seafarers on board operate and control shipboard systems. Some automated functions.
Degree 2
Remotely Controlled — Crew on Board
Ship controlled from another location but seafarers on board can take control.
Degree 3
Remotely Controlled — No Crew on Board
Ship controlled entirely from a shore control centre. No crew on board.
Degree 4
Fully Autonomous
Operating system makes its own decisions and determines its own actions.
Timeline

How Autonomy Is Developing

2018–2022

Proof of Concept Vessels

Yara Birkeland, Mayflower Autonomous Ship, and multiple USV trials demonstrate Degree 1–2 autonomy in controlled conditions.

2022–2025

IMO MASS Regulatory Framework

IMO completes regulatory scoping exercise. MSC adopts interim guidelines for MASS trials. Commercial ferry and cargo deployments begin.

2025–2028

Commercial Degree 2–3 Deployments

Short-sea and coastal autonomous vessels enter commercial service. Shore control centre infrastructure matures. Insurance frameworks established.

2028–2035

Deep-Sea Autonomy

First deep-sea autonomous voyages under IMO-approved frameworks. Data and cyber infrastructure becomes central operational concern.

SeaGig's Focus

The Full Autonomy Stack

Autonomous maritime operation requires seamless integration across seven technical layers. SeaGig's research and development work spans all of them.

01

Perception

AIS, RADAR, LiDAR, camera fusion — giving the vessel a complete, real-time picture of its environment.

02

Decision & Planning

AI/ML voyage planning algorithms, COLREGS-compliant collision avoidance, and adaptive route optimisation.

03

Control Systems

Autopilot integration, DP system connectivity, thruster management, and actuation control architecture.

04

Communications

Shore control links, satcom architecture, V2X communication, and redundant data pathway design.

05

Cybersecurity

Hardened autonomous system networks, intrusion detection, secure remote access, and OT protection.

06

Data & Analytics

Mission data logging, performance analytics, digital twins, and predictive maintenance for unmanned platforms.

07

Compliance

MASS regulatory alignment, COLREGS interpretation, flag state requirements, and incident reporting frameworks.

Research Partnership

Developing Autonomous
Capability Together

We are looking for shipping companies, technology providers, and maritime organisations interested in collaborating on autonomous systems research and development. Early partnerships shape the direction.