56 SUOMEN MERENKULKU ■ FINLANDS SJÖFART Whether we like it or not, artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve. This places the maritime industry – the backbone of global trade and defence – at a critical risk, and it’s a vulnerability that could be exacerbated by rapid AI adoption without proper oversight. Protecting our industry is not just a matter of economic importance but a core aspect of safeguarding national interests, wherever we live. THE DANGERS Cybersecurity vulnerabilities: AI-driven systems in marine operations, including autonomous vessels, port logistics and communication networks, are susceptible to cyberattacks. Malicious actors could exploit AI to disrupt shipping routes, sabotage supply chains, or compromise national defence operations. For example, hacked AI systems on autonomous vessels could redirect military or commercial cargo, causing national and economic security threats. AI systems could also face ransomware attacks, paralysing ports or naval fleets and disrupting operations. Loss of human oversight: Over-reliance on AI systems may reduce human involvement in critical operations. In times of conflict or crisis, a lack of human oversight could lead to decisions or actions misaligned with national interests. For example, AI could misinterpret a routine naval manoeuvre as a threat, escalating tensions unnecessarily. In high-stakes naval operations, human judgement is vital for de-escalation, and is something that AI can’t replicate. Dependence on foreign AI technology: Relying on AI systems developed by foreign entities can create vulnerabilities. Backdoors or intentional flaws in foreign-built systems could allow adversaries to monitor or disrupt critical operations. For example, foreign AI systems could have backdoors, letting adversaries access sensitive data or seize control of maritime infrastructure. Economic warfare: AI could enable economic sabotage, such as manipulating global shipping markets or targeting maritime infrastructure. A coordinated attack on maritime logistics using AI could cripple national economies. AI could manipulate shipping routes or disrupt supply chains, delaying essential goods like fuel or military equipment and weakening national resilience in countries like Australia and the UK. THE POSITIVES On the flip side, AI can also strengthen the industry when aligned with national security priorities. For example, AI can predict engine failures, keeping naval vessels mission-ready and reducing downtime. Another positive is that AI-powered satellite imagery and drones can spot illegal fishing or smuggling in real time, securing our waters. AI can improve the efficiency of naval supply chains, ensuring timely delivery of resources critical to defence operations. AI can also monitor marine ecosystems for pollution or illegal dumping, protecting fisheries vital to our economy. MAKING AI WORK FOR US If we are to meet these challenges and opportunities, we need to develop secure, national AI systems by investing in technology developed in our own nations. These can be tailored to marine applications, reducing reliance on foreign technology. To do this, we should Why nations must urgently get to grips with marine AI Artificial intelligence in the maritime sector could expose critical vulnerabilities – threatening not just economies but also national security, argues GRAHAM GOSDEN of the Australian Institute of Marine and Power Engineers, a Nautilus Federation affiliate. CREDIT: GRAHAM GOSDEN
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