The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and the United States Coast Guard Research and Development Center (USCG-RDC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to facilitate collaborative research and development on key technologies impacting the maritime industry.
Areas of Collaboration
Both ABS and the USCG-RDC have extensive portfolios of maritime innovation projects that will benefit from cooperative efforts. Activities under the MOU can include joint research publications, new technology qualifications, and information sharing in various research areas. These areas include remote and autonomous systems for uncrewed surface and underwater vehicles, advanced data analytics involving artificial intelligence and machine learning for maritime assets, cybersecurity for vessels, ports, and transportation infrastructure, analysis of changing risks associated with the marine transportation system, and the impacts of energy transition and alternative fuels in the maritime domain.
Statements from Leaders
Bruce Baffer, ABS Senior Vice President for Global Government, emphasized the importance of sharing best practices and advancements with trusted stakeholders and partners in light of the rapid technological changes in the maritime industry. He highlighted that the MOU formalizes ABS’s collaboration with the USCG-RDC, bringing ABS’s global perspective to further maritime innovation across various technical and safety topics.
Captain Michael P. Chien, Commanding Officer of the USCG-RDC, noted that the MOU marks a significant milestone in the center’s expanded partnership engagement efforts. He praised ABS’s reputation as an internationally recognized maritime class society and expressed optimism about the future joint collaborations, emphasizing that the MOU will enhance the USCG RDC’s ability to support the Coast Guard at strategic, operational, and tactical levels.
History of Partnership
ABS and USCG-RDC have a long history of collaboration, focusing on maritime safety, security, and environmental protection. This MOU further strengthens their partnership and commitment to advancing maritime innovation.
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Source: ABS