Automation and seafarers : is this a ‘killer’ or ‘evolution’ in the context of seafaring profession?

Innovation-led change is nothing new to the maritime transport industry. Over the last two decades, we have seen satellite communication and radars transforming the marine sector. In recent years, the industry has come face to face with major development towards higher levels of automation on ships. The need for an environmentally friendly, more efficient, and safer sea transportation solution has turned the idea of autonomous ships from fiction into reality. However, this brings about discussions on the relevance and importance of traditional seafarers’ roles onboard smart ships of the future. As such, the marine sector is now faced with pressures for a tighter maritime regulatory framework to facilitate the introduction of remotely-controlled and autonomous shipping, both from the viewpoint of the operations, as well as how seafarers will need to be trained with newly identified skill sets. This paper seeks to explore how changes in the maritime regulatory framework can play a role in ensuring the successful transition for seafarers and the industry as a whole. It will also analyze the feasibility of these regulatory changes and implementation, which may bring about new risks and potential opportunities for seafarers of the future. A suggested local approach to remotely-controlled and autonomous shipping in the context of Singapore will also be discussed under recommendations.Bachelor of Science (Maritime Studies