Sperry Marine has been selected to supply integrated bridge systems for two hydrogen-powered container vessels being built for Samskip Group, with the ships scheduled for delivery in 2027.

The 135-metre vessels, under construction at Cochin Shipyard Limited, are claimed to be the first in the world to combine zero-emission hydrogen fuel cells with autonomous-ready navigation capabilities.

The ships will operate between Oslo Fjord and Rotterdam as part of a green corridor initiative. The two vessels combined are expected to reduce CO₂ emissions by approximately 25,000 tonnes annually when operating in zero-emission mode using green hydrogen.

Sperry Marine's integrated bridge systems will feature open architecture designed to accommodate future autonomous navigation technologies. The package includes the company's NAVIPILOT 4500N autopilot, which is said to dynamically adjust to vessel characteristics and changing conditions.

"Samskip's level of ambition on emissions requires partners like Sperry Marine, with similar objectives for innovation and the willingness to invest in the future," commented Jeroen Hollebrands, head of newbuilding and projects at Samskip Group. "These ships are a milestone for the maritime industry, delivering hydrogen fuel cells and autonomous-ready navigation as a clean and renewable technology."

Pascal Göllnitz, Sperry Marine's product line manager for integrated bridge systems, noted: "What sets this IBS apart is its open and flexible architecture, combined with Sperry Marine's resilient sensor technology and robust cyber protection. This creates a secure and future-proof navigation platform, ready for today's hydrogen-powered operation and tomorrow's autonomous services."

The systems will also include Advanced ARPA tracking technology, designed to provide tracking ranges of 40 nautical miles and operate independently from radar video streams. Additional equipment includes the company's Secure Maritime Gateway cyber threat protection and remote diagnostics support.

Guy Millard, managing director of Sperry Marine, commented: "Sperry Marine is proud to collaborate with Samskip and Cochin Shipyard Limited on this transformative project. This contract demonstrates how our navigation technologies are sought out by the maritime industry's true innovators in ship safety, efficiency, and sustainability."

Sperry Marine, part of Northrop Grumman Mission Systems since 2001, provides navigation and control solutions for commercial and military vessels globally.