dohom@sanly.tm
75 D.Azady Street, Turkmenbashi
Русский Türkmençe
Using artificial intelligence in ship management

The use of artificial intelligence in ship management is one of the most important innovative areas in modern maritime science and technology. This technology is fundamentally transforming ship navigation systems, semi-autonomous and fully autonomous control, and maintenance processes. The primary task of artificial intelligence systems is to analyze large volumes of information in real time and ensure the safe and efficient operation of a vessel. To achieve this, data obtained from radars, lidars, optical cameras, and sensors on board a vessel is processed by artificial intelligence algorithms. This enables the rapid detection of small details that the human eye cannot see or miss, such as small objects or ice floes in the distance. Artificial intelligence is also highly effective in determining the optimal route for a vessel. It calculates not only the shortest route but also the most optimal trajectory that minimizes fuel consumption, taking into account the direction of sea currents, wave height, and wind speed. This significantly contributes to the reduction of harmful emissions globally. Another important application of artificial intelligence in ship management is predictive maintenance. Sensors installed on the vessel's main engine, cargo hold, double bottom integrity system, and pumping system continuously transmit information. Based on this information, artificial intelligence provides advance warning of the potential failure of any mechanical component. This helps prevent unexpected accidents and reduce vessel downtime. Predictive maintenance in ship management is one of the most effective applications of artificial intelligence. While traditional maintenance is performed according to a schedule (e.g., every 1,000 hours) or after a breakdown, with the help of artificial intelligence, this operation is performed based on the actual condition of the equipment.

How this system works: 

- Sensor monitoring: Thousands of sensors are installed on the vessel's main engine, generators, and even specialized equipment in the cargo holds. These sensors record even the slightest changes in vibration, temperature, and pressure. 

- Anomaly Detection: Artificial intelligence algorithms "learn" the vessel's normal operating parameters. If an anomaly occurs in any part, the system immediately detects it. For example, if the sound of the pumps in the double-bottom sections changes, the system warns of the onset of a malfunction. 

- Failure Time Prediction: The system not only reports a malfunction but also estimates how many hours or days a part can continue to operate without problems. This allows ship managers to order the necessary spare parts before the vessel arrives in port.

Key Benefits:

-                Cost Savings: Unexpected breakdowns are prevented, minimizing vessel downtime in port.

-                Safety: Reduces the risk of engine or navigation system failure at sea.

-                Equipment Lifetime: Increases equipment lifespan because minor faults are addressed before they become serious.

This technology is even more effective when combined with digital twins. A virtual replica of the vessel analyzes all possible scenarios, enabling management decisions to be made with the utmost precision. In maritime safety, one of the most important pillars of modern ship management is collision avoidance systems (COLREGs), which make autonomous decisions in strict compliance with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea. Equipped with artificial intelligence, these systems analyze radar, AIS (Automatic Identification System), and electro-optical camera data in real time to calculate speed, course, and closest point of approach (CPA) with other vessels in the immediate vicinity. This technology not only alerts the vessel's captain but also automatically determines the most appropriate collision avoidance course if a risk arises, taking into account the vessel's maneuverability and sea conditions. This minimizes errors that can arise due to human factors, such as fatigue, distraction, or subjective judgment. Because the system's decisions fully comply with international legal standards, such as "give way" and "take position," navigation safety is maintained at the highest level, even in heavy traffic and foggy weather. This innovative approach protects not only the vessel itself, but also the valuable cargo in its holds, as well as the sensitive marine environment from major disasters.In the future, with the further development of these systems, it is planned to achieve a "zero accident" strategy in maritime transport and create a fully integrated and safe ecosystem through the digital exchange of information between vessels. Approaching and anchoring operations are the most complex and critical phases of shipping, as vessels navigate narrow waters, at low speeds, and in the presence of other vessels. Artificial intelligence at this stage maximizes navigational safety through "smart mooring" and "automatic anchoring" systems. As the vessel approaches the berth, artificial intelligence calculates the distance between the vessel and the shore with millimeter accuracy using laser rangefinders (LiDAR) and ultrasonic sensors. It analyzes not only the distance but also wind gusts, the effect of currents on the vessel's hull, and inertia, and automatically corrects for the vessel's lateral drift. This prevents collisions with the berth and damage to port facilities. When anchoring, artificial intelligence accurately determines where and at what distance the anchor should be dropped, taking into account the seabed topography and the vessel's weight. In anchoring mode, the Anchor Watch system uses artificial intelligence to continuously monitor the vessel's direction and position. If the anchor begins to drift or the vessel leaves the designated safe zone, the system issues an emergency alert and, if necessary, automatically starts the engines to maintain the vessel's stability. The implementation of these systems facilitates the crew's work, especially at night or in foggy weather with limited visibility, and optimizes the time and cost efficiency of port operations for shipowners. In the future, fully autonomous vessels controlled by artificial intelligence will become the standard in maritime transport and will require new digital approaches for specialists in this field.

A.N.Atagurbanowa

Maritime secondary vocational school of the city of Turkmenbashi, teacher

Other articles

All articles
Card image cap
Oct 26 2026
Turkmenistan’s Diversified Economy and Its Role in the Development of Social Protection for the Population

Over the 35 years of independence, Turkmenistan has strengthened its position among countries experiencing rapid economic growth and successfully integrating into the global economy. The main objective of the reforms implemented in the country is to overcome the economy’s dependence on raw materials, advance market-oriented reforms, use natural resources efficiently, and create favourable conditions for people’s lives, health, and safety. These objectives are clearly reflected in the fundamental principle of the country’s state policy: “The State is for the People!” Throughout this historical period, the consistent implementation of a strategic development policy focused on industrial growth and innovation has played a major role in ensuring the country’s economic independence. Support for infrastructure development, a strong commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, and the implementation of the objectives outlined in the National Programme for the Socio-Economic Development of Turkmenistan for 2011–2030 and the Programme for the Socio-Economic Development of Turkmenistan for 2019–2025 have provided important impetus for improving production efficiency, making rational use of investments, and supporting the non-state sector of the economy. Looking back at the progress achieved, it is particularly important to note that, during the years of independence, Turkmenistan has undergone a significant transformation, moving from a predominantly agricultural economy towards a country with a developed industrial sector. At the initial stage, agriculture accounted for more than 40 per cent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), while industry represented approximately 17 per cent. More than 80 per cent of industrial output at that time came from extractive industries. Today, industry accounts for more than 27 per cent of GDP, while agriculture represents approximately 11–12 per cent. At the same time, the structure of agricultural production has changed considerably. While cotton cultivation continues to play an important role, grain production has been restored and further developed, and a foundation has been established for the expansion of livestock farming. These changes have contributed to strengthening the country’s food security.

Card image cap
Oct 23 2026
Turkmenistan’s logistics system

Turkmenistan lies at the heart of Eurasia, between the Caspian Sea and its borders with Iran, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. This position makes the country a natural link in transit routes between East and West and between North and South. In recent years it has been building a multimodal logistics system that unites road, rail, sea and air transport. The centerpiece of this system is the Turkmenbashi International Seaport. It has operated since May 2018 and has focused on stimulating international cooperation in transport and logistics. The new port more than tripled the country’s cargo handling capacity to 25–26 million tons per year. It is the largest cargo and passenger hub on Turkmenistan’s coast. In March 2026, a European Union delegation visited the port, where both sides discussed making effective use of the Trans-Caspian corridor’s potential. The port is a key part of the Caspian Sea–Black Sea corridor. Officials are discussing ways to increase freight traffic through the ports of Turkmenbashi, Baku, Poti, Batumi and Constanta. The Lapis Lazuli Corridor also forms a route from Afghanistan through Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan and Georgia to Turkey. On the railways, the Kazakhstan–Turkmenistan–Iran line, opened in 2014, connects Central Asia with the Persian Gulf. On the roads, highways link the country with Kazakhstan, Iran and Afghanistan, and new high-speed roads are being built toward Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. In aviation, Ashgabat’s international airport and the new airports in the regions meet international standards. Speaking at the Central Asia + Japan Dialogue Summit, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov presented a strategy to turn the country into a key Eurasian logistics hub. He stressed that new routes should complement existing ones rather than replace them.

Card image cap
Oct 21 2026
The impact of ecosystem stability on human health

Ecosystem stability refers to nature's ability to maintain its own balance, biodiversity, and purity. Human health is directly dependent on the state of the environment. A stable ecosystem provides humans with essential baseline resources necessary for survival. The connection between humans and nature is profound, and ecosystem stability serves as a guarantee for both physical and mental human health. Clean Air and Water: Forests and plants purify the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Natural water sources and healthy soils filter water, making it safe for drinking. Food Security and Soil Fertility: A stable soil ecosystem and rich biodiversity (such as insect pollinators for crops) ensure abundant and high-quality agricultural yields. Disease Prevention: Maintaining natural balance prevents the overproliferation of infection carriers (such as insects and rodents). The loss of biodiversity increases the risk of new viruses and diseases transferring to humans. Psychological and Mental Health: Natural environments, green spaces, and pristine ecosystems reduce stress levels, normalize blood pressure, and soothe the nervous system. Pharmaceutical Resources: More than 50% of modern medicines are derived from natural plants and biological resources. Richer biodiversity enhances the potential for discovering new lifesaving drugs. Prevention of Zoonotic Infections: Protecting natural habitats maintains crucial boundaries between wildlife and human populations, preventing the spillover of zoonotic viruses to humans. Climate Regulation: Forests and oceans regulate global temperatures. A stable climate protects communities from extreme heatwaves, droughts, and natural disasters. Safeguarding human health relies not only on healthcare systems but is fundamentally connected to protecting the ecosystem and maintaining its stability. A resilient environment is the foundation of a healthy, prosperous society. Preserving ecosystem purity is the most critical step toward securing the well-being of future generations.