The University of Plymouth is collaborating with experts in cyber security and maritime operations to create a first-of-its-kind research facility, which aims to bring together a host of connected maritime systems currently found on an actual ship’s bridge.
Specifically, the University’s Cyber-SHIP Lab will unite a host of connected maritime systems currently found on an actual ship’s bridge.
When the build phase is complete, the project will enable researchers to enhance global shipping security, also providing training for those in the sector.
The project includes 18 commercial partners working alongside the University to bring it to fruition. The partners consist of ship operators as well as companies involved in the supply of hardware and software, the construction of ship’s bridges and the training and management of personnel who work in the commercial shipping industry all over the world.
Professor Kevin Jones, Executive Dean for Science and Engineering and Principal Investigator for the Project, commented that
This project has the potential to be a real game changer for the shipping industry. Cyber-attacks are a Tier1 National UK threat and the need to protect our maritime operations has never been more crucial, or more challenging.
The Cyber-SHIP Lab has been funded for three years with a view to it then becoming self-sustaining, and will address a number of complex and interlinked issues affecting the maritime industry. It will take into account both technological and human behavioural aspects in order to effectively mitigate threats, especially considering the huge variation in vessel types.
