Anglo-Eastern Maritime Training Centre (AEMTC) has taken a significant step forward in preparing seafarers for the maritime industry’s transition to cleaner fuels. The inaugural ‘Pilot Training Course on Ammonia as a Marine Fuel’ has been successfully completed, marking a milestone in the journey towards sustainable maritime propulsion.
Held in late November, the two-day programme attracted 26 participants from various shipboard ranks, including Masters, Chief Engineers, senior officers, and junior engineers. Travelling from across India, these professionals brought diverse backgrounds to the table, creating a dynamic and collaborative learning environment. This diversity mirrored real onboard operational teams, underscoring the shared responsibility needed as ammonia-fuelled vessels become a reality. The programme also saw active participation from Anglo-Eastern teams based in Australia and Delhi, further strengthening cross-regional collaboration and alignment on future fuel readiness.
Participants received essential training on ammonia as a marine fuel, focusing on safety, operational readiness, and the unique challenges and opportunities presented by this alternative fuel. The course combined classroom instruction with hands-on experience at the Anglo-Eastern Maritime Academy (AEMA) in Karjat. Here, trainees practiced key procedures in a safe, controlled environment, using the Academy’s globally unique LNG/Ammonia bunkering skid. This state-of-the-art facility is designed for practical simulation of bunkering operations, integrating transfer pipelines, safety interlocks, inerting systems, emergency shutdown functionality, gas detection interfaces, and fully operational controls.
The bunkering skid’s ability to simulate emergency scenarios and operational variances ensures that trainees acquire the competence and confidence required for future service aboard ammonia-powered vessels. Aalok Sharma, Group Director of Training at Anglo-Eastern, remarked, “This pilot course is a logical and deliberate step as we prepare to take delivery of our first ammonia-fuelled ship. As we navigate our journey toward the successful adoption of a multi-fuel future in the maritime industry, we move forward with both pride and caution. Our goal is to ensure that we continually learn while we teach, cultivating an environment of growth and innovation. The team has dedicated significant time and resources to upskill, keeping a strong focus on the invaluable feedback from seafarers – those who will be at the forefront of these operations. We as an industry must continue to seek these essential insights, as we refine our approach and enhance the training programs.”
Pioneered by Prasad Nayak, General Manager of Training at Anglo-Eastern, this comprehensive programme includes hands-on bunkering simulations at AEMA, underscoring the company’s commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability. By preparing in advance, Anglo-Eastern is ensuring a smooth and responsible transition to alternative fuels, reaffirming its position at the forefront of maritime decarbonisation.
This initiative not only equips seafarers with the necessary skills but also sets a precedent for the industry. As the maritime sector increasingly turns to ammonia and other alternative fuels to meet decarbonisation goals, such training programmes will be crucial. They ensure that the workforce is ready to handle the complexities and challenges of new fuel technologies, ultimately contributing to a safer and more sustainable maritime future.
The successful completion of this pilot course is a testament to Anglo-Eastern’s proactive approach and leadership in maritime training. It highlights the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in an industry undergoing significant transformation. As the sector moves towards a multi-fuel future, the insights and experiences gained from this course will be invaluable in shaping future training programmes and operational practices.