The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has approved a new international framework to regulate autonomous ships during the 111th session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 111) held in London this week.
The International Code of Safety for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS Code) was approved with the aim of supporting the safe integration of autonomous and remotely operated vessels into international shipping operations.
The MASS Code establishes a goal-based framework to ensure that autonomous ships meet safety, security, and environmental protection standards equivalent to those required for conventional manned vessels. A Maritime Autonomous Surface Ship (MASS) refers to a vessel capable of operating with different levels of automation and independence from direct human control, ranging from ships with automated processes and decision support to fully autonomous vessels.
The new framework will apply to large cargo ships engaged in international trade and is scheduled to take effect on 1 July 2026. It will initially be implemented on a voluntary basis for at least two years.
IMO says that this experience-building phase will allow Member States and the shipping industry to test and evaluate its application before the framework is considered for mandatory adoption.
According to the revised roadmap established by the organisation, the IMO plans to commence development of a mandatory MASS Code in 2028. This work will incorporate amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), with adoption targeted by 1 July 2030 at the latest, ahead of an entry into force on 1 January 2032.
The adoption follows an extensive regulatory scoping exercise initiated by the organisation to assess existing maritime instruments, involving the MSC, the Legal Committee, and the Facilitation Committee (FAL) to address operational policy issues, including the legal roles and responsibilities of the Master and the Remote Operator.
