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TECHNOLOGY sense. “The timeline typically ranges from a few months to to see broader operational improvements as newer technolo- over a year,” Togasaki explained. Not surprisingly, software gies mature. Among those are hull-cleaning robots and AI- solutions generally move through the process much faster enabled camera systems designed to reduce crew workload than hardware installations. Physical equipment often re- while improving onboard safety.

quires extended shipboard testing before investment decisions can be made. PREPARING FOR A DIFFERENT WORKFORCE

Although emissions dominate many maritime technology

LEARNING BY TRIAL discussions, Togasaki believes another challenge will ultimately

As anyone in any technology space can attest, not every prove even more signi? cant: Finding enough quali? ed mariners.

pilot succeeds, and Togasaki is candid about that reality. “The real challenge our industry is facing is labor short- “We have done plenty of POCs with startups,” he said. “To age,” he said. “The statistics are there.” be honest, not every time is successful, but every time we For that reason, autonomy has become one of IINO Line’s learn something.” Innovation O? ce’s highest priorities. While fully autono-

That willingness to experiment — and occasionally fail — mous oceangoing ships remain years away, IINO is already has already produced tangible operational gains. investing in technologies that automate individual onboard

On the digital side, IINO has implemented AI-based CII tasks. Hull-cleaning robots reduce labor-intensive mainte- optimization tools along with compliance platforms support- nance work. AI-powered cameras provide additional situ- ing both the EU Emissions Trading System and FuelEU Mari- ational awareness. Together, these systems represent building time regulations. According to Togasaki, these systems have blocks for future autonomous vessel operations.

signi? cantly improved emissions management while simul- “Those are very important elements for the future of au- taneously increasing operational e? ciency. Hardware initia- tonomous shipping,” Togasaki said.

tives are also beginning to show measurable returns. But achieving that future will require far more than individ-

The company has installed Norsepower rotor sails aboard ual technologies. “We need more collaboration with startups, gas carriers and dry bulk vessels, where performance data corporates and regulators.” continues to be monitored. “We are observing signi? cant ef- Regulatory development, in particular, will determine how fect,” he said. While decarbonization initiatives have produced quickly autonomous technologies transition from demonstra- the strongest measurable outcomes so far, IINO is beginning tions to commercial deployment.

Oceanus Aurora with installed rotor sails.

© Norsepower 22 Maritime Reporter & Engineering News • August 2026

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