Vard, a subsidiary of the Fincantieri Group, has delivered two vessels that it claimed to be the “world's first” with cybersecurity notations, in compliance with new mandatory regulations which took effect on 1 July 2024.

The commissioning service operation vessel (CSOV) Grampian Kestrel was delivered to North Star while the CSOV Purus Chinook was handed over to Purus.

Cybersecurity notations ensure that vessels are equipped to handle cyber threats, maintain operations during attacks, and recover swiftly.

These notations align with the International Association of Class Societies’ (IACS) unified requirements UR E26 and E27, which became mandatory for newbuilds contracted after 1 July 2024.

Although contracted in 2023, these vessels adhere to these standards.

Vard CEO Cathrine Kristiseter Marti said: “The delivery of the two vessels represents an historical milestone for the maritime industry and for Vard and our owner Fincantieri, enhancing the group’s leading position for the technological transition in maritime operations.”

“The maritime industry is undergoing a significant transformation based on the increased use of digitally connected systems. These notations are essential for establishing baseline requirements and best practices to protect maritime operations from evolving and dynamic cyber threats. The delivery of these vessels shows Vard’s and Fincantieri’s commitment and willingness to set new standards and explore new ways of building cyber resilient platforms which allow our customers to manage cyber threats to the vessels.”

A significant number of onboard systems for these vessels come from Vard Electro's SeaQ portfolio.

Vard stated that it has collaborated with its customers and classification societies to ensure vessels achieve cyber resilience in line with the regulatory standards.

Vard Electro has undertaken the cyber integration testing for all systems.

The Purus Chinook is the “first” CSOV to receive a COMF C2 V1 class notation for climate, noise, and vibration, while the Grampian Kestrel has been awarded Lloyd's Register's highest notation for noise and vibration, CAC1, stated Vard.

These recognitions establish new “global benchmarks” for offshore working conditions, the company added.

Earlier this year, Vard announced that a collaboration with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology and other industry stakeholders, will evaluate fourth-generation nuclear reactor technologies for their application in commercial maritime operations as part of the NuProShip I project.