Orca AI’s recognition technology, developed within the DFFAS+ project, has received technological qualification from ClassNK, confirming its capabilities in artificial intelligence and computer vision for autonomous navigation.
The system delivers real-time data to autonomous control platforms through three SeaPod units equipped with RGB and thermal cameras, providing full 360-degree situational awareness. Launched in early 2026, the solution can detect overtaking vessels, piracy threats, and obstacles obscured by cranes or ship structures, addressing key safety challenges in autonomous operations.
The DFFAS+ consortium, led by MTI — the technology arm of NYK — brings together 51 companies under the MEGURI2040 program by The Nippon Foundation. The initiative focuses on advancing commercial autonomous shipping, developing standards, and strengthening Japan’s leadership in maritime innovation. The certification follows successful MTI–Orca AI trials conducted off Japan’s east coast in 2023.
The flagship vessel Genbu has already received ClassNK certification for automated navigation, along with approval from Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, confirming its autonomous capabilities.
According to Orca AI co-founder and CTO Dor Raviv, the certification reflects extensive collaboration and technical validation in areas such as perception accuracy, sensor fusion, and benchmarking. MTI representatives подчеркнули, что этот шаг приближает отрасль к практическому внедрению автономных судов.
