The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has adopted a new International Code of Safety for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS Code) to support the safe integration of AI-enabled and remotely operated commercial ships into global shipping.
The new international framework was adopted at the 111th session of Maritime Safety Committee held in London from 13 to 22 May 2026 and will take effect from 1 July 2026. The new code will regulate ships operating with little or no human crew.
According to a media release by IMO, the MASS Code sets out a comprehensive, goal-based framework to ensure that remotely controlled or autonomous ships are designed and operated to a level of safety, security and environmental protection that is expected of a conventional ship.
They will also be required to comply with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and other applicable mandatory IMO instruments.
As it is a non-mandatory instrument, Member States are given the opportunity to test its use while paving the way for making it mandatory under the SOLAS Convention.
IMO Secretary-General Mr Arsenio Dominguez said, “This landmark achievement represents a major step forward, enabling innovation while ensuring that safety, accountability and the human element remain at the core of maritime operations.”
A ship is considered autonomous if such shipboard technology is designed and verified to control actions without human intervention. While the number of fully crewless or remote-operated ships are currently limited, a growing number are being successfully trialled internationally.
The MASS Code introduces new requirements for the design, approval and operation of these ships, including in key areas such as navigation, connectivity, remote operations, fire safety, and search and rescue. It places strong emphasis on risk assessment, robust system design, cybersecurity and the integration of Remote Operations Centres (ROCs).