The maritime sector is on the brink of a transformative leap, thanks to the recent collaboration between Kongsberg Digital and PSA Marine Pte. Ltd. This partnership aims to elevate harbour pilot training, a critical component in navigating the increasingly complex waters of modern maritime operations. With the rise of autonomous ships and sustainable propulsion systems, the need for advanced training has never been more pressing.
PSA Marine, headquartered in Singapore, plays a pivotal role in the maritime ecosystem, providing integrated marine services that include pilotage and towage. With over 180,000 vessels serviced annually in the Port of Singapore—recognized as the world’s busiest container transhipment hub—the stakes are high. As vessels grow larger and environmental regulations tighten, PSA Marine has identified the necessity of enhancing its training protocols to keep pace with these changes.
Enter Kongsberg Digital, a global leader in maritime simulation technology. Their expertise is already well-established in Singapore, with their systems being utilized by key organizations such as the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore and the Singapore Police Coast Guard. This collaboration forms a robust ecosystem of simulation users, all working towards a safer and greener maritime future.
The partnership will see PSA Marine bolster its training infrastructure with sophisticated simulators from Kongsberg Digital set to be installed in April 2025. This suite will feature a Full Mission Bridge Simulator and a Full Mission Tug Bridge Simulator—both Class A systems designed to immerse harbour pilots in hyper-realistic training environments. These simulators will replicate Singapore’s unique maritime conditions, allowing pilots to practice navigating through dense traffic, managing new vessel types, and responding to emergencies—all within a safe and controlled setting.
Mr. Er Wei Lim, Managing Director at PSA Marine, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We are excited to partner with KONGSBERG to fortify our operational and training competencies towards safer and more efficient navigation. The collaboration underscores our commitment to innovation and excellence, empowering our people with the advanced technologies and skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.”
On the flip side, Are Føllesdal Tjønn, Managing Director of Maritime Simulation at Kongsberg Digital, echoed this sentiment, saying, “We are proud to partner with PSA Marine, an organization that shares our vision for advancing maritime safety and efficiency. Our simulation technology bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, preparing PSA Marine’s harbour pilots to excel in an evolving industry.”
What does this mean for the future of maritime operations? As the industry grapples with rapid technological advancements and a shifting regulatory landscape, this partnership sets a new benchmark for pilot training and innovation. It not only reinforces Singapore’s position as a global maritime leader but also serves as a model for other regions looking to enhance their maritime capabilities.
The implications are profound. Enhanced training means safer navigation, which in turn boosts port productivity. The collaboration also signals a shift towards a more sustainable maritime future, as the industry adapts to new technologies and practices. The integration of advanced simulation technology into training regimens could very well be the catalyst that propels the maritime sector into a new era—one where safety, efficiency, and sustainability go hand in hand.
