Today’s vessels are becoming increasingly digital, connected, and automated, maritime operations are gaining new levels of efficiency, safety, and environmental performance. But with greater digitalization comes greater vulnerability. An Integrated Automation System (IAS) is today no longer just a tool for monitoring and controlling onboard processes, it is a critical foundation for cybersecurity and digital resilience at sea.
A ship today operates much like a floating data center. Propulsion, power management, HVAC, navigation support systems, alarms, condition monitoring, and remote service interfaces are all interconnected. This tight coupling of IT and OT domains creates enormous value, but also increases exposure to cyber threats.
Regulatory bodies, including the IMO, now require documented cyber-risk management, making cybersecurity a strategic priority for shipowners, yards, and integrators.
To meet these demands, automation platforms must evolve. An IAS must not only unify vessel systems but also enforce digital resilience across every layer of operation.
A modern IAS connects, supervises, and manages critical vessel systems through a single, unified interface. SEAM’s e-SEAMatic® automation platform exemplifies this approach with its modular, open architecture and robust network strategy.
Key IAS features that support cybersecurity include:
1. System Integration and Centralized Visibility
Centralizing data and alarms improves situational awareness. It enables crews to react quickly to anomalies, disruptions, or potential cyber incidents.
2. Modular and Open Architecture
SEAM’s IAS uses modular building blocks and commercial off-the-shelf components (COTS), avoiding rigid proprietary lock-ins. This flexibility ensures system security can evolve alongside vessel needs.
3. Redundancy and High Availability
Redundant controllers, operator stations, network paths, and power supplies ensure the IAS remains operational even during component failure or active cyber-attacks.
4. Built-In Cybersecurity Measures
SEAM follows a “Security by Design” approach, incorporating:
- IT/OT segregation
- DMZ network zones
- Advanced firewall configurations
- Strict access control and hardening
- Segmented communication paths
This ensures that the automation platform itself becomes a protective barrier, not a vulnerability.
SEAM’s automation platform has evolved over more than 15 years, powering some of the most modern electric and hybrid vessels in Norway and beyond. Its architecture directly supports the cybersecurity capabilities demanded by today’s maritime industry.
Modular, Scalable System Architecture
Whether for a retrofit or a newbuild, the e-SEAMatic® IAS scales to vessel size and mission profile. Modules can be added or upgraded independently, enabling ongoing cybersecurity improvements throughout a vessel’s lifetime.
Redundant Design for Operational Robustness
Critical components are duplicated or distributed to ensure continuous operation. This not only improves reliability but adds an essential layer of defense during cyber events.
Network Segmentation and Cyber-Hardened Infrastructure
The system employs clear separation between operational networks and information networks, reducing the likelihood of cyber threats propagating across domains.
Data-Driven Decision-Making and Secure Analytics
The IAS securely collects and structures operational data for analysis, trend monitoring, and performance optimization. As vessels move toward more autonomous functions, this secure data foundation becomes even more important.
While technology forms the backbone of cyber resilience, strong processes and competence are equally important. SEAM’s approach aligns with global best practices:
1. Map and Segment IT/OT Architecture
Understanding how systems connect is essential for proper risk control.
2. Choose an Upgradable, Modular IAS
This allows vessel owners to adopt new security enhancements without major overhauls.
3. Implement Redundancy and Self-Diagnostics
Ensures critical systems remain functional during incidents.
4. Build Security into the Design Phase
Security should not be an afterthought — it must be embedded in system architecture and lifecycle planning.
5. Leverage Operational Data Securely
Data insights improve safety, efficiency, and early detection of abnormal system behavior.
6. Strengthen Crew Knowledge and Processes
Even the best cybersecurity architecture requires trained personnel who understand risks, signals, and response protocols.
A vessel equipped with a secure, future-ready automation platform gains significant operational and commercial benefits:
- Lower risk of downtime or operational disruption
- Strong compliance with IMO and class cyber requirements
- Improved efficiency and data-driven decision-making
- Better preparedness for semi-autonomous and autonomous operations
- Increased trust among customers, partners, and authorities
In short, cybersecurity is not an added feature — it is a core capability for modern maritime operations.
A modern IAS must be more than a control system. It must be a secure, resilient platform that protects the vessel, the crew, and its critical functions.
SEAM’s e-SEAMatic® IAS demonstrates how advanced automation, modular design, and security-driven architecture come together to build digital resilience at sea. For shipowners looking to stay ahead of regulatory requirements, operational risks, and future digital innovation, investing in a cyber-secure IAS is no longer optional — it is essential.
