Digitalisation at sea was one of the key topics of the first Emirates Shipping Congress held during the UAE Maritime Week. According to the organiser, Emirates Shipping Association, digital systems are now fundamental to safe, efficient, and competitive operations. Maritime connectivity is evolving at an unprecedented pace, driven by the rapid expansion of LEO satellite technologies. Following the Starlink 2024 report alone, more than 75,000 vessels adopted their LEO connectivity last year. In a complex, multi-layered digital maritime environment, network management is no longer optional—it’s indispensable. Digital platforms, such as OptiView by IEC Telecom, provide ship operators with complete visibility and control over onboard connectivity. Intelligent network management plays a vital role in enhancing operational efficiency, improving crew welfare, and ensuring long-term cost-effectiveness on board. Moreover, connectivity has emerged as the number one driver for seafarer retention, surpassing traditional factors such as shore leave and contract terms. In parallel, cybersecurity has emerged as a critical priority. A key preventative measure lies in the segregation of crew and corporate networks. Today’s advanced platforms further complement onboard cybersecurity through built-in threat detection, granular content filtration, and customisable policy enforcement, enabling shipowners to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities before they escalate. Read more about digitalisation in the maritime sector in this recent publication with contributions by Nabil Ben Soussia, Group CCO at IEC Telecom, for Robban Assafina.
