Lauritzen takes a technology leap on gas carrier IT

The Danish shipping group has selected Marlink to deploy fully integrated and managed IT services on all Lauritzen Kosan-managed gas carriers.

Cyber security and onboard network resilience will be improved on tankers designed for liquefied petroleum gas ocean transportation.

Marlink will deploy its ITLink portfolio across the fleet to standardise IT infrastructure, automate software and security updates and monitor the health of onboard computers.

Lauritzen Kosan head of vessel IT Lars Kirstein said having secure IT systems on board these ships is crucial for business and safe operations.

“IT and operational technology are key to securing the safety of our ships, crews and cargoes,” he said. “So, it is vital our onboard systems are always available for updates, with increased security.”

Marlink will use its KeepUp@Sea platform for remote monitoring and to manage IT and communications systems, optimise vessel IT infrastructure and processes, reduce operational and support requirements and improve the stability of onboard networks.

Marlink will maintain the cyber resilience of Lauritzen Kosan’s vessel IT network and automate file distribution and system updates, which were previously time-consuming manual processes.

ITLink will proactively improve Lauritzen Kosan’s IT compliance for IMO’s upcoming cyber security requirements, to be incorporated in safety management systems by January 2021.

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“Providing our new range of ITLink solutions is a key milestone to enable further automation and digitalisation for Lauritzen Kosan in the liquefied gas ocean transportation sector,” said Marlink president for maritime Tore Morten Olsen.

“In an environment with very specific demands within one of the most advanced maritime transportation segments, the functionality of our ITLink solutions including the KeepUp@Sea platform will help to take the firm’s safety, efficiency, reliability, compliance and cost-effectiveness to the next level.”

Lauritzen Kosan operates a varied fleet of gas carriers including ethylene, chemical and LNG tankers, semi-refrigerated and fully pressurised ships.