The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is intensively working on the development of a regulatory framework for autonomous ships, known as Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS). The new International Safety Code for Autonomous Ships was adopted in May 2026, and its implementation begins on 1 July 2026. The aim of the code is to enable the safe integration of ships operated remotely or fully autonomously into global maritime traffic.
IMO emphasizes that the development of autonomous navigation must be aligned with safety standards, environmental protection, and international maritime regulations. Back in 2021, IMO carried out a comprehensive analysis of existing maritime conventions in order to determine how they could be applied to ships with different levels of autonomy.
Four levels of autonomy have been defined — ranging from ships with automated crew-support systems to fully autonomous vessels capable of making decisions independently. Special attention has been directed toward issues of liability, the role of the shipmaster and remote operators, as well as safety in emergency situations.
Autonomous and remotely operated ships are already being tested in certain parts of the world, primarily on shorter routes between ports. Experts believe that full autonomy in maritime transport will be gradual and that human supervision will remain a key component of safe ship operations for a long time. The development of such technologies could significantly increase the efficiency of maritime transport, reduce fuel consumption, and optimize logistical processes in ports. At the same time, questions are being raised regarding cybersecurity, the protection of communication systems, and the potential consequences of technical failures at sea.
Several European and Asian countries are already investing substantial resources in autonomous navigation projects, while technology companies are developing artificial intelligence systems for ship navigation and monitoring. IMO highlights that international cooperation will be crucial in ensuring unified standards and the safe implementation of new technologies in global trade. More information is available on the official IMO website.
