Degrees of Navigation Autonomy

The IMO defines four degrees of navigation autonomy, ranging from manned automated systems to fully autonomous ships. A significant gap exists between degree 3 (remotely controlled) and degree 4 (fully autonomous). The classification lacks clarity on critical technologies and does not reflect technological complexity, highlighting the need for better definitions, particularly regarding digital twins.

• The International Maritime Organization (IMO) defines four degrees of autonomy for ships, ranging from manned systems to fully autonomous vessels. Understanding these degrees is crucial for advancements in maritime technology and safety.
• The International Maritime Organization's (IMO) framework for defining degrees of autonomy has significant limitations, particularly regarding the clarity of technological roles and the gap between degrees 3 and 4. This gap highlights the need for improved definitions, especially concerning the role of digital twins in ship navigation autonomy.
• The IMO framework focuses on human operators, which restricts the evaluation of system capabilities, particularly in distinguishing between degrees of autonomy.
• Degree 3 only allows remote control, while degree 4 encompasses advanced features.There are two main shortcomings in the IMO's classification: it lacks clear indications of critical technologies and there exists a substantial conceptual gap between degrees 3 and 4. This gap is pivotal in understanding autonomy.
• The study emphasizes that ship digital twins could play a crucial role in bridging the gap between degrees 3 and 4, enhancing navigation autonomy. This concept is essential for improving maritime technology.