Rolls-Royce and Singapore Institute of Technology to Research Automation for Harbour Crafts, Autonomous and Hybrid Ships

Rolls-Royce and the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) have entered into an agreement to develop automation technologies to enable equipment health management and fleet management for harbour craft (including autonomous ships and ships with hybrid propulsion).

It is ultimately hoped that by pursuing automation technologies, the two organisations will be able to develop craft that are more reliable, have improved fuel consumption, and lower emissions. 

Rolls-Royce and SIT have agreed to test the new technologies on the MPA Guardian - a hybrid vessel that is equipped with two mtu 16V2000 engines. It will be fitted with the equipment health management system NautIQ Foresight which will collect data and help optimise operations. 

Commenting on the new project, Professor Susanna Leong, Vice President (Applied Research) at the Singapore Institute of Technology, said: 

“SIT’s collaboration with Rolls-Royce will drive the future of intelligent and sustainable maritime operations. This partnership reflects SIT’s commitment to applied research that delivers real-world impact - leveraging AI, advanced analytics, and condition monitoring to enhance ship autonomy, optimise fleet performance, and reduce carbon emissions. 

SIT will contribute our expertise in intelligent systems and sustainability-driven innovations, while working with industry captains to develop practical solutions that address the evolving needs of the maritime sector”.

Leong’s comments were mirrored by Kevin Daffey, the Senior Vice President of Mobile Automation at Rolls-Royce Power Systems: 

“We see the joint research project as an important step in the further development of autonomous ships and ships with hybrid technologies. Singapore, as a centre for sustainable shipping, is the ideal location for this outstanding project, with all the progressive institutions we are partnering with here. 

We are thus promoting the reduction of CO2 emissions and supporting our customers with digital systems and even better service in line with our strategic goals”.

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