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Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications—2nd Edition
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Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications—2nd Edition

A special issue of Journal of Marine Science and Engineering (ISSN 2077-1312). This special issue belongs to the section "Ocean Engineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 March 2025 | Viewed by 15786

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Nikitas Nikitakos

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Guest Editor
Department of Shipping, Trade and Transport, University of the Aegean, Chios, Greece
Interests: maritime IT technologies; maritime security; offshore structures; maritime HMI; maritime communications
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Iosif Progoulakis

E-Mail
Guest Editor
Department of Shipping, Trade and Transport, University of the Aegean, Chios, Greece
Interests: maritime security; cyberphysical security; oil and gas operations and assets; critical maritime energy assets; critical infrastructure protection

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The integration of advanced information and communication technologies in the shipping industry shows that smart and digital systems onboard vessels and fleets offer high rewards through operational efficiencies. Similarly, new technologies enable enhanced and efficient port operations with reduced environmental footprint. Data analytics and performance monitoring of vessels, ports and their systems enable optimized maintenance and increased lifecycle of assets. Additive manufacturing creates opportunities in vessel repairs while being away from any maintenance or repair support hubs. At the same time, the digitalization in the shipping industry, as well as its assets and operations, is rapidly exceeding the industry’s ability and capacity to protect it, proving that cybersecurity remains a valid threat. The maritime sector needs to overcome any technological and regulatory barriers in the integration of new technologies in its maritime supply and transportation chain in order to gain efficiency and improve safety and security. 

This Special Issue will examine the main issues faced by the shipping industry when adopting new information and communication technologies aiming for optimized and more energy-efficient operations while also tackling cybersecurity threats. Original paper submissions are encouraged on topics such as: 

  • Vessel performance monitoring and advanced analytics.
  • New technologies for repair and maintenance of maritime assets
  • Technologies for smart and green ports.
  • Technologies for Maritime Life Cycle assessment
  • Shipping logistics and protection of maritime critical infrastructure against cybersecurity threats.
  • The implementation of cyber security standards and directives in the shipping industry.
  • New technologies in the shipping industry (additive manufacturing, 5G, IoT, AI, Big Data, etc.).
  • Cyber risk management and security assessment in the maritime industry.
  • Maritime digitalization.
  • Autonomous vessels and unmanned platforms (UAVs, UUVs, USVs) in maritime applications.

Prof. Dr. Nikitas Nikitakos
Dr. Iosif Progoulakis
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Marine Science and Engineering is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • maritime digitalization
  • remote monitoring and advanced analytics
  • maritime cyberphysical security
  • autonomous and unmanned vessels
  • cybersecurity training
  • cybersecurity standards and directives
  • additive manufacturing in shipping
  • 5G implementation in shipping
  • E-navigation technologies in shipping

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Further information on MDPI's Special Issue polices can be found here.

Published Papers (7 papers)

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15 pages, 799 KiB  
Article
Challenges in Maritime Cybersecurity Training and Compliance
by Divine C. Chupkemi and Konstantinos Mersinas
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(10), 1844; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12101844 - 15 Oct 2024
Viewed by 975
Abstract
The implementation of cybersecurity standards and directives in the maritime sector plays a crucial role in protecting critical maritime infrastructures from cyber threats. The level of protection depends heavily on humans. However, the effectiveness of cybersecurity training and compliance programmes, an essential component [...] Read more.
The implementation of cybersecurity standards and directives in the maritime sector plays a crucial role in protecting critical maritime infrastructures from cyber threats. The level of protection depends heavily on humans. However, the effectiveness of cybersecurity training and compliance programmes, an essential component of these standards, is often hindered by challenges related to the sector’s environment, including the established technologies, practices, and norms. This paper aims to identify these challenges through a literature review and set the basis for more effective human risk minimization, responses, and training. We identify 17 challenges and validate them with an online survey (N = 205) capturing real-world perspectives from maritime-related stakeholders. Our findings contribute to enhancing the effectiveness of maritime cybersecurity training and compliance programmes, ultimately strengthening the maritime cybersecurity posture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications—2nd Edition)
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24 pages, 1689 KiB  
Article
Cyber–Physical Security Assessment for Maritime Vessels: Study on Drillship DP System Using American Petroleum Institute Security Risk Analysis and Bow-Tie Analysis
by Iosif Progoulakis, Ioannis K. Dagkinis, Anastasia Dimakopoulou, Theodoros Lilas, Nikitas Nikitakos and Panagiotis M. Psomas
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(10), 1757; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12101757 - 4 Oct 2024
Viewed by 964
Abstract
The maritime industry’s increasing integration of IT/OT systems into vessel operations has significantly elevated its exposure to cyber–physical threats, making the development of effective cyber risk management strategies a necessity. This paper provides an outlook of the current landscape of cyber security threats [...] Read more.
The maritime industry’s increasing integration of IT/OT systems into vessel operations has significantly elevated its exposure to cyber–physical threats, making the development of effective cyber risk management strategies a necessity. This paper provides an outlook of the current landscape of cyber security threats and vulnerabilities for the maritime sector and vessels. An outline of the relevant governmental and industry directives, standards, and guidelines for cyber security in maritime vessels is given. Considering maritime vessels as critical elements of the maritime critical infrastructure sector, a number of relevant cyber–physical security assessment methods are presented. Bridging cyber–physical security, process safety, and security, API SRA (American Petroleum Institute Security Risk Analysis) and BTA (Bow-Tie Analysis) are presented as the most applicable cyber–physical security assessment methods for complex maritime vessels, such as an offshore oil and gas drillship. The scenario of a cyber-attack on the Dynamic Positioning (DP) system of a drillship is presented with the use of API SRA and BTA. The difficulties in the implementation of NIST CSF v2.0 and IACS UR E26 and UR E27 in the maritime sector are also discussed. The need for intensified research on and the formulation of bespoke cyber security measures to mitigate the evolving cyber threats within the maritime domain is highlighted. The need for the allocation of training and resources for the reinforcement of the capacity of a maritime vessel’s crew in the mitigation of cyber threats and safe maritime operations is emphasized. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications—2nd Edition)
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18 pages, 3078 KiB  
Article
Revolutionizing the Marine Spare Parts Supply Chain through Additive Manufacturing: A System Dynamics Simulation Case Study
by Evanthia Kostidi and Nikitas Nikitakos
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(9), 1515; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12091515 - 2 Sep 2024
Viewed by 783
Abstract
This research investigates the potential of additive manufacturing (AM) to revolutionize the marine spare parts supply chain (SPSC). While AM has been widely explored in other industries, its application in the maritime sector remains limited. This study addresses this gap by comparing traditional [...] Read more.
This research investigates the potential of additive manufacturing (AM) to revolutionize the marine spare parts supply chain (SPSC). While AM has been widely explored in other industries, its application in the maritime sector remains limited. This study addresses this gap by comparing traditional and AM-integrated SPSC models using system dynamics simulation. By focusing on high- and low-value spare parts, this research highlights significant cost reductions and improved delivery times through strategic AM integration. Our findings demonstrate the potential of AM to enhance the efficiency and resilience of the maritime supply chain, particularly in remote environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications—2nd Edition)
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31 pages, 1205 KiB  
Article
Comprehensive Analysis of Maritime Cybersecurity Landscape Based on the NIST CSF v2.0
by Anastasia Dimakopoulou and Konstantinos Rantos
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(6), 919; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12060919 - 30 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4903
Abstract
As technology advances and digitalization becomes more prevalent in the industry, the cyber threats to maritime systems and operations have significantly increased. The maritime sector relies heavily on interconnected networks, communication systems, and sophisticated technologies for its operations, making it an attractive target [...] Read more.
As technology advances and digitalization becomes more prevalent in the industry, the cyber threats to maritime systems and operations have significantly increased. The maritime sector relies heavily on interconnected networks, communication systems, and sophisticated technologies for its operations, making it an attractive target for cybercriminals, nation-states, and other threat actors. Safeguarding the maritime sector against cyber threats is crucial to ensuring the safety, integrity, and efficiency of maritime operations as well as for protecting sensitive information and global trade. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has played a significant role in addressing cybersecurity issues, leading to the implementation of regulations aimed at risk reduction. This paper delves into the realm of cybersecurity within the maritime industry, offering an in-depth analysis of its various aspects through an extensive literature review based on the latest Version 2.0 of the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) functional areas. The primary objective is to establish a connection between research and NIST’s functions and categories, thereby presenting a nascent perspective and identifying existing security research gaps. Through the adoption of this strategic approach, the present paper aims to cultivate a forward-looking and proactive state of maturity in anticipation of future developments within the maritime industry. The outcomes of this research can provide valuable reference points in academic discourse, potentially leading to new hypotheses, and fuel innovation in developing advanced cybersecurity measures within the maritime industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications—2nd Edition)
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18 pages, 1215 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Digital Transformation in the Maritime Transport Sector: A Case Study of Croatia
by Marija Jović, Edvard Tijan, Saša Aksentijević and Andreja Pucihar
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(4), 634; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12040634 - 9 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1752
Abstract
In this research, the authors investigated the factors of digital transformation in the maritime transport sector, which were applied to the case study of Croatia. Since there is a pronounced lack of research dealing with the digital transformation factors in the maritime transport [...] Read more.
In this research, the authors investigated the factors of digital transformation in the maritime transport sector, which were applied to the case study of Croatia. Since there is a pronounced lack of research dealing with the digital transformation factors in the maritime transport sector both globally and in Croatia, as a first step the authors identified the aforementioned factors using the literature review method and interviews. Moreover, the survey was carried out among a representative group of stakeholders involved in the maritime transport sector in Croatia, including administrative entities such as port authorities, ministries, and harbormaster’s offices, as well as commercial participants such as freight forwarders, agents, and terminal operators. The goal was to obtain the state of the art of digital transformation in the maritime transport sector. A total of 94 organizations provided valid responses. Finally, the authors proposed measures to improve the digital transformation in the maritime transport sector in Croatia. The results highlighted the importance of various digital transformation factors, such as information security, investment in emerging technologies, leadership motivation, and expertise. The case study presented serves as a valuable reference for comparable countries that recognize their resource constraints but aspire to enhance their efficiency and competitiveness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications—2nd Edition)
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15 pages, 2611 KiB  
Article
Deployment Strategy of Shore-Based Cooperative Units for the Internet of Inland Vessels
by Puya Li and Chunchang Zhang
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(4), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12040598 - 30 Mar 2024
Viewed by 927
Abstract
Aiming at the communication network optimization problem of the Internet of Inland Vessels, this work presented a network model and deployment strategy with shore-based cooperative units as network nodes. Firstly, the system architecture and communication mode of the Internet of Inland Vessels were [...] Read more.
Aiming at the communication network optimization problem of the Internet of Inland Vessels, this work presented a network model and deployment strategy with shore-based cooperative units as network nodes. Firstly, the system architecture and communication mode of the Internet of Inland Vessels were analyzed. The three-layer model of service, data, and transmission of ship–shore communication was established to calculate the ship–shore communication data volume of the system. Then, considering the comprehensiveness of the signal coverage of the base station, a coverage model of two-layer heterogeneous network communication was established. Furthermore, an optimization model of shore-based cooperative unit deployment was established with power consumption, cost, and data transmission rate as the objectives. The multi-objective optimization model was solved by the genetic algorithm. Finally, the proposed deployment strategy was verified through simulation cases. The simulation results showed that the proposed deployment strategy could reduce the deployment cost of shore-based cooperative units based on meeting the communication demand and deploy regional shore-based cooperative units. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications—2nd Edition)
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26 pages, 3945 KiB  
Article
Preventing Catastrophic Cyber–Physical Attacks on the Global Maritime Transportation System: A Case Study of Hybrid Maritime Security in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore
by Adam James Fenton
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(3), 510; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12030510 - 19 Mar 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4057
Abstract
This paper examines hybrid threats to maritime transportation systems and their governance responses; focusing on the congested Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS) as an illustrative case study. The methodology combines secondary sources with primary data from 42 expert interviews, a 28 respondent [...] Read more.
This paper examines hybrid threats to maritime transportation systems and their governance responses; focusing on the congested Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS) as an illustrative case study. The methodology combines secondary sources with primary data from 42 expert interviews, a 28 respondent survey, and two maritime security roundtables. Key findings were that ships’ critical systems are increasingly interconnected, yet aging IT infrastructure and minimal cybersecurity awareness among crews heighten risks. Meanwhile, regional terrorist groups have previously targeted shipping and shown considerable skill in exploiting online tools, aligning with broader calls for jihadist violence. Furthermore, opportunistic piracy persists in the SOMS with the potential to disrupt shipping. Experts confirmed that maritime cybersecurity lags behind other critical infrastructure sectors and needs updated governance. Initial International Maritime Organization (IMO) guidelines lack specificity but revisions and updated IMO guidance are in process, while Port state implementation of maritime cybersecurity standards varies. Crucially, information sharing remains inadequate, even as recorded attacks increase. Findings underscore that although major hybrid incidents have not occurred, simulations and threat actors’ capabilities demonstrate potential for catastrophic collisions or cascading disruption in congested waterways. Mitigating factors like redundancy and crew training are deficient currently. Some alignment between SOMS states on maritime security cooperation exists, but not on cyber threats specifically. Key recommendations include an anonymous cyber attack reporting system, reinforced training and shipboard systems, and consolidated regional frameworks. Until these priorities are addressed, the analysis concludes that hybrid vulnerabilities in this vital global chokepoint remain a serious concern. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications—2nd Edition)
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