Wärtsilä Secures Contract for Singapore's Next-Gen Traffic System

Wärtsilä has been awarded the prototyping contract for the innovative Next Generation Vessel Traffic Management System (NGVTMS) by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA).

This project aims to significantly enhance maritime safety and operational efficiency at one of the world’s busiest ports. Wärtsilä confirmed the order in the third quarter of 2024.

"MPA is committed to the maritime industry’s digital transformation and green transition by leveraging cutting-edge technology and working with like-minded partners to enhance the safety, efficiency and sustainability of port operations,” said David Foo, Assistant Chief Executive (Ops-Tech) at MPA.

As Singapore continues to solidify its status as a leading global maritime hub, increasing ship traffic highlights the need for more sophisticated traffic management systems.

Foo also noted, “MPA awarded the tender to three companies, including Wärtsilä, to develop the NGVTMS prototype using an agile approach, based on open system architecture. With its innovative solutions and deep domain knowledge, Wärtsilä will play an important role in this project and help explore new standards for maritime traffic management.”

In response to these demands, MPA is driving the integration of AI-powered technologies to improve both navigational safety and port efficiency. Wärtsilä and other selected industry partners were chosen in April 2024 to lead this pioneering effort following a detailed evaluation process.

"The NGVTMS initiative represents a collaborative venture aimed at redefining the future of maritime traffic management through advanced technology and shared expertise. Wärtsilä is honoured to bring our state-of-the-art solutions and deep industry knowledge to this transformative project, helping to establish new benchmarks in the field," said Hannu Mäntymaa, Vice President for Voyage Services, Wärtsilä Marine.

For the next 15 months, Wärtsilä will work at MPA’s Maritime Innovation Lab 2.0, focusing on creating an open-architecture system that integrates advanced tools like data analytics to detect traffic hotspots and machine learning to predict potential collisions. These technologies will enable vessel traffic officers to manage the increasing volume and complexity of maritime traffic more safely and efficiently.

Wärtsilä’s Vessel Traffic Management Systems are already installed in over 300 locations across more than 55 countries, according to the company’s statement.