The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has commissioned the Maritime Testbed of Shipboard Operational Technology (MariOT) system, one of the world’s first industrial-grade cyber-physical platform designed to strengthen shipboard cybersecurity training and testing for technologies. Supported by the Singapore Maritime Institute (SMI) and developed in collaboration with the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) and industry partners, the launch of the SUTD-based facility marks an important milestone in efforts to address cybersecurity challenges impacting shipboard Operational Technology systems.
MariOT’s industrial-grade design delivers high-fidelity simulations of key maritime systems, including navigation, propulsion, and power management systems. These realistic training scenarios enable trainees to gain hands-on practice and experience with potential cyber threats, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world operational challenges.
MariOT strengthens the quality and rigour of cybersecurity training while reducing reliance on physical shipboard infrastructure. It fosters a collaborative environment where engineers, IT specialists, and maritime personnel can share expertise, refine best practices, and accelerate the testing of cybersecurity technologies and adoption of cybersecurity incident response protocols.
MPA plans to integrate MariOT training scenarios into academic curricula for maritime-related courses through partnerships with Institutes of Higher Learning. Through access to state-of-the-art simulations, students will enhance their learning outcomes, supported by structured internships and cross-disciplinary research projects to offer students pathways for specialisation in maritime cybersecurity.
MPA and partners will enhance MariOT’s capabilities to combat emerging cyber threats through regular training. SMI will spearhead maritime cybersecurity research at the facility. International partnerships will be pursued to improve simulation capabilities and contribute to global cybersecurity standards development.