The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and PSA Singapore have issued an Expression of Interest (EOI) to develop and test autonomous intergateway container feeder vessels. This initiative aims to modernise port operations by enhancing efficiency, safety, and reliability as vessel traffic increases.
Intergateway container feeder vessels are crucial for moving containers between terminals within the Port of Singapore, such as Tuas and Pasir Panjang. The EOI seeks to explore autonomous technologies, assessing their readiness and feasibility in a rigorous operational environment. This exploration is expected to yield benefits in productivity, safety, and sustainability, whilst also creating new career opportunities in fields like remote vessel monitoring and maritime data analytics.
The EOI includes plans for a remote operations centre to integrate vessel sensor data and port traffic information, enabling real-time monitoring and intervention. Proposals must address key considerations such as navigational safety, interaction with manned vessels, and cybersecurity. They should also outline operational limits, technological readiness, and risk mitigation strategies, alongside viable business models that meet PSA’s operational requirements.
Interested parties are invited to submit proposals by 24 July 2026. This initiative is part of Singapore’s broader efforts to advance port automation and prepare for a multifuel future, as highlighted by Senior Minister of State for Law and Transport, Murali Pillai, during the Singapore Maritime Week 2026 Conference.
