The towage fleet at the Port of Port Hedland in Western Australia has begun implementation of the SafeTug real-time positioning system from Trelleborg Marine and Infrastructure, following the completion of a successful trial.
The technology is now being installed across the port’s 27-vessel tug fleet, with the rollout forming part of Pilbara Ports’ broader programme to improve safety and coordination during marine operations.
Port of Port Hedland operates a single shipping channel for capesize bulk carriers and handles some of the world’s highest iron ore export volumes, requiring precise vessel movements and uninterrupted access.
“SafeTug provides the precise coordination capabilities needed in constrained waterways where multiple vessels operate simultaneously,” said Tommy Mikkelsen, Managing Director for Navigation and Piloting division at Trelleborg Marine and Infrastructure.
“Port of Port Hedland’s operational environment, where continuous channel access is essential, demonstrates the technology’s application in high-stakes maritime operations.”
The new set-up will provide continuous, real-time positional data for tugboats, to improve on the latency issues experienced by the tugs with traditional AIS-based tracking.
The system also integrates with Trelleborg’s SafePilot Cloud Server and SafePilot pilot portable units, to create a shared operational picture for pilots and tug crews during approach, berthing and departure operations.
