Kongsberg Maritime is making waves with its advanced simulation tools, originally honed for the defence sector, now set to revolutionise maritime training across the board. The company’s KDI simulation system, K-Sim, has already proven its mettle with users like NATO countries and the Singapore police. Now, Kongsberg is ready to cast a wider net, offering this cutting-edge technology to the broader maritime industry.
At the heart of K-Sim are digital twins, VR, and real-time data integration, creating an immersive and realistic training environment. Terje Heierstad, Business Development Director at Kongsberg Maritime, and Steinar Sandvik, Business Development Manager Navy and Coast Guard, sat down with Digital Ship to discuss the game-changing potential of these simulations. They envision a future where maritime professionals can hone their skills in any scenario before setting foot on a real vessel. “It’s about building confidence,” Heierstad asserted. “So when they go to sea, they’ve seen it before in a safe environment.”
The maritime landscape is evolving, and so are the challenges faced by professionals. As operations become more complex, the need for equally sophisticated training solutions grows. K-Sim steps up to the plate, offering a platform that can simulate everything from standard navigation to crisis management and autonomous vessel operations. “We have tried to simulate as much as possible from the real-life ship environment,” Sandvik explained, highlighting the platform’s ability to recreate complex maritime scenarios with detailed accuracy.
One standout feature is the full warship trainer, which provides an immersive and adaptable simulation experience. While it’s been a staple in Kongsberg’s naval training solutions, Heierstad and Sandvik believe it has immense potential for the wider maritime industry. The simulators aren’t just about navigation; they extend to engine room operations, damage control, and fast craft manoeuvres. This comprehensive approach equips personnel with the skills to handle high-pressure situations, shortening the time from classroom to operational capability.
The integration of autonomous vessel operations into the simulation training is another forward-thinking move. “We are now integrating autonomous systems, because that’s the future of naval operations,” Sandvik stated. As the industry embraces autonomous technology, Kongsberg’s systems allow users to familiarise themselves with these new tools in a safe and stable environment.
Digital twins are a central feature of Kongsberg’s simulation technology. These virtual models of naval vessels, ports, and environments enable detailed training, allowing crew members to extensively practice vessel operations before ever setting foot on a ship. This approach, dubbed the “Ship 0 Concept,” significantly reduces risk and improves efficiency. “We have had users say it felt like being back on the actual vessel,” Heierstad shared. “That realism is what makes the training effective.”
The integration of digital twins into fleet training programmes has also improved connectivity between different branches of the military, enhancing mission coordination and joint exercises. “You can’t afford trial and error at sea,” Sandvik emphasised. “That’s why digital twin simulation is so important.”
Cybersecurity is another critical aspect of Kongsberg’s simulation tools. The company ensures that its simulators operate within secure and controlled environments, aligning with industry standards like ISO 27001. This focus on cybersecurity is crucial as cyber warfare becomes an increasing concern for naval forces worldwide. It will also be vital for maritime companies adopting K-Sim, providing a robust defence against potential cyber-attacks.
As Kongsberg Maritime opens up its K-Sim technology to the broader maritime industry, it’s clear that the future of training is here. The ability to simulate complex scenarios with detailed accuracy, integrate autonomous operations, and ensure cybersecurity sets a new standard. This shift could reshape how maritime professionals prepare for the challenges ahead, fostering a more confident and skilled workforce. The question now is, how quickly will the industry embrace this technology, and what innovations will follow in its wake? The maritime sector is on the cusp of a training revolution, and Kongsberg is leading the charge.