In an exciting development for the maritime industry, the TalTech Estonian Maritime Academy has joined forces with several leading institutions, including the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), Singapore Maritime Institute (SMI), Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), and the Estonian Foundation CR14, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This collaboration is set to usher in a new era of advancements in maritime cyber security.
Signed on April 16, 2024, during the Accelerating Decarbonisation and Digitalisation Conference in Singapore, part of the prestigious Singapore Maritime Week, this MoU paves the way for international cooperation aimed at fortifying maritime cyber security across various dimensions.
Groundbreaking Collaboration for Cyber Security Innovations
One of the focal points of this partnership is the development and deployment of the Maritime Testbed of Shipboard Operational Technology (MariOT) system at SUTD. This industrial-grade cyber-physical model will simulate essential shipboard operational technology systems, allowing for extensive testing and exploration of cyber security vulnerabilities and defenses. Scheduled to be fully operational by March 2025, the MariOT system will facilitate joint cyber training exercises and simulation drills, leveraging Foundation CR14’s specialized expertise in cyber range solutions.
Human Factors and AI in Maritime Cyber Security
A key area of research under this MoU will be the examination of human factors in maritime cyber security, understanding associated risks, and developing mitigation strategies. TalTech and SUTD will jointly delve into the threats posed to port and ships’ digital systems by the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI), as well as explore the substantial advantages that AI-enabled technologies can offer cyber defenders.
Enhancing Academic and Professional Exchanges
Another significant aspect of the MoU is the development of student and academia exchange programs. Both institutions aim to integrate their cyber simulation centers to broaden the simulation capabilities of networks, systems, and applications, which are critical in training the next generation of cyber security experts.
Moving Forward
This partnership marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to safeguard the maritime industry from cyber threats through international collaboration, innovative research, and shared expertise. The maritime sector can look forward to safer and more secure operations as these institutions work together to advance cyber security knowledge and technology tailored to the unique needs of maritime environments.
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