MPA launches world’s first maritime cybersecurity training facility

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has commissioned the Maritime Testbed of Shipboard Operational Technology (MariOT) system, the world’s first industrial-grade cyber-physical platform designed to strengthen shipboard cybersecurity training and testing for technologies.

MariOT is designed to deliver high-fidelity simulations of key #maritime systems that enable trainees to gain hands-on practice and experience with potential cyber threats.

MariOT strengthens the quality and rigour of #cybersecurity training while reducing reliance on physical shipboard infrastructure. It fosters a collaborative environment where engineers, IT specialists, and maritime personnel can share expertise, refine best practices, and accelerate the testing of cybersecurity technologies and adoption of cybersecurity incident response protocols.

MPA plans to integrate MariOT training scenarios into maritime-related courses at the Institutes of Higher Learning, to enhance the students’ education and offer students pathways to specialise in maritime cybersecurity.

MPA and its partners will continue to expand MariOT’s capabilities to address evolving #cyberthreats and conduct regular training exercises. The facility will also play a key role in advancing research on maritime cybersecurity, with Singapore Maritime Institute (SMI) leading the initiative.

More than 300 students are expected to benefit from this cutting-edge facility over the next three years.

This initiative, supported by SMI and developed with Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) and industry partners, marks a significant step in addressing maritime cybersecurity challenges. It reinforces Singapore's position as a leader in maritime innovation and security.

As part of Singapore Maritime Week (SMW), SUTD, in partnership with MPA, will host the inaugural MariOT cybersecurity training exercise from 27 to 28 March 2025, which will simulate cyber threats targeting OT systems onboard vessels, testing participants’ ability to detect cyber intrusions and carry out the appropriate incident response protocols.