{mprestriction ids="1,2"}The Alliance has nine members, chaired by HNA Technology Group and including ABS, CCS, China Ship Research & Development Institute, Shanghai Marine Diesel Engine Research Institute, Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding, Marine Design Research Institute of China (MARIC), Rolls-Royce and Wärtsilä.

“Through this collaborative effort, we will apply the latest technologies to develop a new autonomous ship concept,” said HNA Technology Group vice chairman, Li Weijian.

“The newly formed alliance is advancing new innovations in ship design and operations, and also working to promote the safe adoption of these assets in the market.”

The Alliance was officially launched at the end of June and says that it expects to deliver an unmanned cargo ship by October 2021.

The system being designed by the Alliance will integrate features of independent decision-making, autonomous navigation, environmental awareness and remote control, according to the project partners.

“Increased digitisation, advanced technologies and new levels of connectivity are changing the way the maritime industry operates,” said ABS greater China division president, Eric Kleess.

“In the coming years, we will see significant changes in the way ships are designed and built, with a strong drive to develop autonomous vessels, especially in China. As a key member of this alliance, ABS is aligned closely with industry to support safer and more sustainable maritime operations.”{/mprestriction}