Fraunhofer Center for Maritime Logistics and ServicesInternational Conference on Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (ICMASS)
The 8th ICMASS will be held in Hamburg on October 8 and 9, 2025, co-organized by the Fraunhofer Center for Maritime Logistics and Services (CML) and the German Institute of Navigation (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Ortung und Navigation e.V. DGON).
Over the course of this two-day conference, a high-quality program will address a large variety of research and development in autonomous and intelligent ships. More than 100 presentations will cover topics ranging from the technical and regulatory requirements for operating autonomous ships to the challenges faced by ports and terminals, as well as navigational issues involving interactions with other vessels and objects in the water. Additionally, discussions will focus on the barriers to implementing Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) and cybersecurity requirements, along with the promotion of effective (autonomous) seamanship onboard.
As with every ICMASS, the conference program will feature current research findings and the latest innovations, showcasing a huge spectrum of latest developments in this field.
The three main themes of the MASS conference—Technology, Operations, and Business—will be complemented by the ISSS track. The Intelligent and Smart Shipping Symposium will highlight the latest advancements in digital maritime systems, including enhanced positioning resilience, sensor fusion for situational awareness, ship-to-shore integration through digital twins, and the creation of intelligent navigation aids.
The Fraunhofer CML hosts the event in its research facility located in Harburg's inland port, providing insights into laboratories alongside an exhibition featuring innovative technology providers. Special highlight of this year's ICMASS: several sessions take place on a ship at the CML quay, which will embark on an Elbe cruise at the end of the event.
Approximately 200 participants from research and academia, the maritime industry, technology providers, regulatory authorities, and policymakers are expected to attend this event, which will offer numerous opportunities for networking and collaboration.
Registration and further information on the event can be found on the DGON website and LinkedIn.
