Maritime ports are standing at the precipice of a digital revolution, with cutting-edge technologies reshaping operations, efficiency, safety, and sustainability. The adoption of artificial intelligence, drones, the Internet of Things, and robotic automation has opened new horizons. Major ports worldwide have already embraced autonomous vehicles for loading and unloading containers, and some have integrated software and automation to facilitate seamless data flow. Kongsberg Maritime is at the forefront of this transformation, particularly in the development of autonomous and remote-controlled vessel technology. The company offers innovative solutions to eliminate carbon emissions and automate vessel operations, upholding a mission to transform maritime operations through world-leading technology, innovation, and collaboration.
Kongsberg Maritime’s integrated technologies span bridge to propeller, energy management to emissions monitoring, remote operations to cybersecurity, and navigation, steering, and control systems for complex marine operations. An example of its innovative solutions is the hybrid-electric propulsion system. Kongsberg Maritime supplied this system for battery-hybrid tugs used in South Korean ports to reduce emissions and improve air quality.
In an interaction with Oscar Kallerdahl, Director of A&C, Cyber Security Program at Kongsberg Maritime, the challenges and threats amid smart ports and automation in the maritime sector were discussed. When asked if port operators should be wary, Kallerdahl responded, “Absolutely. The maritime sector, including ports, faces increasing cyber threats that can disrupt global trade, delay cargo, and even endanger lives. While our primary focus at Kongsberg Maritime is on vessel operations, we recognize that ports are a critical node in the maritime ecosystem. As such, port operators must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing cybersecurity risks, especially as digitalization and automation continue to evolve.”
Kongsberg Maritime is addressing cybersecurity risks associated with increasing automation and digitalization of port operations. Kallerdahl explained, “While our core expertise lies in vessel systems, the cybersecurity principles we apply are highly relevant to port operations. We’ve achieved Type Approval for IEC 62443 – IACS UR E27 for our products and UR E26 Type Approval for our Integrated Systems. This effectively means that we have Security Level 1 certification for a wide range of our digital products, including automation, navigation, and Dynamic Positioning (DP) systems. This certification ensures that our systems meet stringent cybersecurity standards, which can also support secure integration with port infrastructure.”
Discussing the cybersecurity features integrated into their automation and digital solutions to protect smart ports from ransomware or data breaches, Kallerdahl noted, “Our certified systems and products —such as K-Pos DP, K-Chief, K-Safe, and K-Bridge—are designed with a Defence in Depth philosophy – ensuring a resilient approach on system level down to the details of components. Our products and systems undergo rigorous third-party testing to ensure resilience against threats like ransomware and data breaches. Features include secure communication protocols, access control, and continuous monitoring capabilities, all aligned with international cybersecurity standards.”
Highlighting Kongsberg Maritime’s technologies that include robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard port infrastructure, Kallerdahl stated, “While we don’t directly develop port infrastructure technologies, our systems—such as Kongsberg Remote Services and K-IMS—are often integrated into broader maritime operations that interface with port systems. These technologies are built with robust cybersecurity frameworks, ensuring that data exchange and remote operations are secure and compliant with industry standards.”
Addressing the vulnerability of smart ports to cyberattacks and how port operators can prevent them, Kallerdahl emphasized, “Smart ports, like any digital infrastructure, are inherently vulnerable to cyberattacks. Prevention requires a layered approach: secure systems, regular updates, staff training, and compliance with international standards. While upfront investment is necessary, the cost of inaction—operational disruption, reputational damage, and financial loss—far outweighs the investment in robust cybersecurity solutions.”
On the current cybersecurity standards for smart ports and recommendations for improvement, Kallerdahl shared, “The maritime industry has made significant strides with standards like IEC 62443 and DNV’s Cyber Security rules. It is clear that the IEC 62443 regulations are written with a strong focus on reducing risk, so anyone following the regulations will reduce risks to their systems – this is helpful when communicating with our customers how our products add value to their operation. However, as threats evolve, so must the standards. Greater emphasis on interoperability, real-time threat intelligence sharing, and mandatory compliance across the supply chain would strengthen the overall cybersecurity posture of smart ports – the industry is on a maturity journey.”
Regarding the human element of preventing cyberattacks, Kallerdahl mentioned, “Our cybersecurity training initiatives are primarily focused on vessel operators and shipyards. We emphasize awareness of social engineering