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face grows, which is one of the most concerning developments. Unauthorised access to these systems could compromise critical operations and sensitive data. Even more troubling is that the impact of a cyber incident can extend well beyond technical disruption, potentially affecting the safety of life at sea, environmental protection, and the financial stability of shipping companies. Moreover, the human element remains one of the most vulnerable areas, as gaps in training and awareness among mariners continue to play a significant role in successful cyberattacks. While measures such as mandatory training, regular system updates, and clear reporting procedures are often recommended, their implementation remains inconsistent across the industry.Given the growing complexity and sophistication of cyber threats, a multi-layered defence approach is essential. It should combine technical solutions, procedural safeguards, and strong attention to human factors. The use of advanced hardware and AI-driven software, for example, can greatly enhance the detection of navigation system attacks. However, in practice, the widespread adoption of these technologies is still limited.While there have been important technological and regulatory advances, the industry%u2019s overall preparedness remains uneven. Inconsistent adoption of best practices, gaps in training, and varying levels of risk management maturity hinder progress. In my view, effective risk mitigation relies on integrating technical controls, standardised protocols, continuous monitoring, and alignment with international regulatory requirements, with strong organisational preparedness built on both technology and human awareness.Looking ten years ahead, which element of smart shipping do you believe will be the most transformative and why?Looking ten years ahead, I believe the most transformative element of smart shipping will be the shift toward autonomous operations. We are already seeing early forms of this transition, from semi-automated cargo-handling systems to advanced navigation-support tools, such as AI-driven collision avoidance and augmented-reality interfaces. These technologies are enhancing situational awareness and reducing human error, but they also signal a much deeper structural change.In my view, what makes autonomy truly transformative is not just the automation itself, but the convergence it represents. Automation brings together digitalisation, connectivity, energy efficiency, and safety into a single, integrated ecosystem. In this context, maritime communication networks will play a critical role, enabling real-time data exchange, remote operations, and seamless coordination between ship and shore.Over the next decade, we are likely to see these technologies mature and integrate more fully, with autonomous shipping emerging at the centre of this evolution. This shift has the potential to deliver substantial improvements in operational efficiency, safety, and environmental performance. At the same time, it introduces complex challenges, particularly in terms of investment, regulatory adaptation, and the evolving role of the human operator.The success of this transformation will depend on three key factors. First, technological integration %u2014 ensuring that systems are not only advanced but also interoperable and reliable. Second, regulatory evolution, including the development of international standards and clear liability frameworks. And third, a strong focus on human factors, through investment in training, effective human-machine interfaces, and organisational adaptation.Ultimately, autonomy will not replace the human element but redefine it. In my opinion, the extent to which the industry manages this transition will determine how transformative these technologies truly become.Smart shippingLooking ten years ahead, I believethe most transformative element of smart shipping will be the shift toward autonomous operations. We are already seeing early forms of this transition, from semi-automated cargohandling systems toadvanced navigationsupport tools, such as AI-driven collision avoidance and augmented-reality interfaces.170 NX