The United States Coast Guard Research and Development Center (USCG-RDC) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with classification society ABS to work together on collaborative research and development projects on technologies impacting the maritime industry.
ABS and the USCG-RDC each have portfolios of maritime innovation projects that could benefit from cooperative efforts in areas of mutual interest, with activity under the MOU set to include developing joint research publications and new technology qualifications.
The organisations will also share information in a variety of research areas including remote and autonomous systems for uncrewed surface and underwater vehicles; 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 impacts of energy transition and alternative fuels in the maritime domain.
“The MOU with ABS marks another milestone for the US Coast Guard Research and Development Center in our expanded partnership engagement effort,” said Captain Michael Chien, Commanding Officer of the Research and Development Center for the United States Coast Guard.
“ABS’ exceptional reputation as an internationally recognised maritime class society is well earned. Their expertise and the research they have and will be conducting will mesh well with research efforts within the RDC.”
“This MOU will expand the USCG RDC’s ability to support the Coast Guard at the strategic, operational, and tactical level. We eagerly look forward to future joint collaborations.”



