Introduction of remote operation of ships - adapting the Swedish legal framework
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Statens Väg- & Transportforskningsinstitut - Statens väg- & transportforskningsinstitut VTI |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 000 000 |
| Project duration | April 2025 - April 2026 |
| Status | Ongoing |
| Venture | Regulation and cutting-edge technology |
| Call | Rules and instruments for cutting-edge technology |
Purpose and goal
The project aims to investigate remote operation in maritime transport and the AI Act´s requirements for human oversight in relation to remote operation from a regulatory perspective. The goal is to develop recommendations for the adjustments needed in Swedish regulations to enable a safe, sustainable, and accelerated introduction of remote operation.
Expected effects and result
The outcome of the project will contribute to a better understanding of the legal framework for remote operations and the prerequisites for implementing the concept. It can contribute to innovation, a safe development of remote operation technology, and the practical application of remote operation. In the long term, it can lead to reduced staffing shortages and decreased climate impact since an increased shift from road to sea transport is being enabled.
Planned approach and implementation
The project is divided into four work packages: one technical, one interdisciplinary, and two legal. The first aim to create an understanding of which technical solutions need to be addressed by regulations. The second concerns human factors and law, focusing on the interpretation of human oversight in the AI Act. The legal work packages address remote operation in relation to international and inland maritime transports. Workshops and reference group meetings will be held to anchor discussions.