Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) and Cochin Shipyard (CSL) have entered into an agreement aimed at developing new technologies in India, as well as a separate deal for the development and certification of an autonomous vessel.
The autonomous ship, named ‘SWAYAT’, is being constructed at CSL as a pilot project.
Key technology partners include KPIT and other Indian manufacturers specialising in autonomous systems and components. The vessel will be verified in accordance with IRS’ Guidelines on Autonomous and Remotely Operated Vessels, to ensure compliance.
In addition, cyber security aspects of the ship’s operations will be addressed as per the IRS’ Guidelines on Maritime Cyber Safety.
The project also includes the certification of an indigenously developed navigation and communication package, which will be verified by IRS. The project partners aim to collaborate with academic and research institutions in design and simulation studies for the vessel.
“It is a matter of great pride for IRS to be part of this prestigious project with CSL and their industry partners,” said T K Sahu, Joint MD of IRS.
“This initiative demonstrates India’s indigenous capabilities in advanced technologies and aligns with the Government of India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ mission. We believe the experience gained through this pilot project will further strengthen our processes for certifying vessels with advanced autonomy.”
