Rolls-Royce, towage operator Svitzer, and the UK’s largest port operator Associated British Ports (ABP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop “next-generation” technologies.
All three companies are aiming to establish innovative systems that will ensure efficient and sustainable shipping for the foreseeable future, and will focus on digitization and ship intelligence solutions.
Mike McCartain, Director of Marine and Compliance at ABP, initiated the tri-party MoU by signing it at an event in Southampton.
Captain Andrew E. Tucci discusses cyber security and the intelligent supply chain in a recent Port Technology technical paper
McCartain said: “New technologies emerge all the time which offer us exciting, additional capabilities.
“ABP is always looking to make these new technologies work for us and our customers.
“Where a solution does not yet exist, we will work with companies of the calibre and expertise of Rolls Royce and Svitzer to invent them and bring them into service.”
Kevin Daffey, Director Engineering & Technology and Ship Intelligence at Rolls-Royce, stated: “Rolls-Royce has a long, successful heritage in UK innovation in engineering and we are proud to be bringing this to bear in working with the UK’s largest ports operator, ABP.
“We are confident that we can work together with ABP and Svitzer to deliver the technologies that will keep the UK competitive in the future.”
Lise Demant, Global Chief Commercial Officer of Maersk-owned Svitzer, commented: “As the world’s leading towage operator, we are pleased to share our expertise within maritime services with heavyweights such as ABP and Rolls Royce, in our joint pursuit of safer and more efficient port operations through technological advancements.”