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North Star’s CSOVs are the world’s first ships to achieve Lloyd’s Register Cyber Resilience classification under new IACS rules.
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The certification ensures operational continuity, system recovery, and personnel protection against cyber threats.
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Grampian Kestrel and Grampian Eagle mark a milestone in cyber-secure shipbuilding, aiding North Star’s push toward 40 SOVs by 2040.
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Cyber resilience was integrated from design through operation, with advanced systems and secure-by-design digitalization.
North Star, a prominent service operation vessel (SOV) operator in Europe’s offshore wind sector, has become the first organization globally to receive Lloyd’s Register’s Cyber Resilience classification for its vessels. This certification aligns with new mandatory standards set by the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) for all newbuilds from July 1, 2024.
A Global First in Cyber-Resilient Marine Operations
The company’s latest commissioning service operation vessels (CSOVs)—the Grampian Kestrel and Grampian Eagle—are now officially certified under Lloyd’s Register Rules incorporating IACS standards UR E26 and UR E27. These standards ensure that onboard and connected systems are resilient against cyber threats, able to continue safe operations even under duress, and capable of rapid recovery from incidents.
Cybersecurity Built into the Hull
Designed and built by Vard Langsten shipyard in Norway as part of the VARD 4 22 design, the CSOVs are North Star’s first in a planned expansion of 40 vessels by 2040. The ships underwent rigorous cyber resilience assessments on mission-critical systems such as dynamic positioning software and Voith Schneider propulsion control units. North Star’s vessels also benefit from Starlink-enhanced connectivity to support operations and crew welfare.
Chief Executive Gitte Gard Talmo emphasized that cyber resilience is an extension of the company’s commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability. “We’re doing it with trust, security, and future-proof thinking built in from the keel up,” she said.
Cybersecurity as a Competitive Advantage
North Star’s Chief Technology Officer, James Bradford, reiterated that “cyber resilience is no longer optional—it’s essential.” By embedding compliance with IACS standards UR E26 and UR E27 throughout their digital and control systems, the company has positioned itself at the forefront of cyber-secure vessel operations. This ensures operational continuity and project reliability for clients in the offshore wind sector.
An Industry Collaboration to Set a Standard
Duncan Duffy of Lloyd’s Register credited North Star and VARD for their forward-thinking approach, which predated the formalization of the IACS rules. Their cooperation with Lloyd’s Register throughout the development and integration phases has established a new standard for the industry.
Vessels Ready for Deployment
The Grampian Kestrel is set to begin operations next month at Germany’s He Dreiht wind farm under EnBW. The Grampian Eagle will begin its contract this July, adding to North Star’s growing fleet of digitally advanced, cyber-resilient ships—vessels that offer not only cutting-edge operational support but also the assurance of uncompromised cybersecurity at sea.
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Source: Power & Energy Solutions
