Norwegian tech firm Vissim has just inked a deal with a Qatar-based oil and gas operator to deploy its vessel collision avoidance system at an undisclosed offshore oil field. This three-year agreement isn’t just about selling software—it’s about redefining safety in one of the world’s most critical energy regions.
The system Vissim is delivering is no ordinary tool. It’s a digital nerve center for vessel traffic, pulling in millions of data points from the Automatic Identification System (AIS) and other sources to paint a real-time picture of maritime activity. This isn’t just about avoiding collisions; it’s about building a smarter, safer offshore environment from the ground up.
The system is set to go live in the first half of 2026, and it’s poised to set a new standard for operational safety in the Gulf. Benedicte Stiberg, Vissim’s Regional Director for the Middle East, puts it bluntly: “Supporting the operator’s vessel collision avoidance system is an excellent example of how digital maritime solutions can enhance safety and situational awareness in offshore environments. By integrating real-time vessel data and analytics, we are assisting the operator in gaining a more comprehensive understanding of vessel activity and improve protection of people and assets at the field.”
This isn’t just good news for Vissim or the Qatar-based operator—it’s a wake-up call for the entire maritime industry. As offshore operations grow more complex, the need for real-time, data-driven decision-making becomes non-negotiable. Vissim’s system shows how technology can bridge the gap between raw data and actionable insights, turning millions of data points into a shield of safety around critical assets.
The ripple effects of this deal could be huge. If Vissim’s system delivers on its promises, we could see a wave of similar investments across the Gulf and beyond. Operators in other high-risk regions might start asking why they’re still flying blind when they could be gaining real-time situational awareness. This isn’t just about avoiding collisions—it’s about building a smarter, safer future for offshore operations worldwide.