Maritime

Singapore's navy has launched a new patrol vessel designed to detect and combat unmanned threats, including drones and uncrewed surface or aerial systems. The Straits Times reported the launch, which reflects the Republic of Singapore Navy's push to modernise its fleet against emerging autonomous warfare threats in regional waters.

Marine technology company Sofar Ocean has launched Wayfinder Explore, a new voyage optimization solution aimed at helping ships plan more efficient routes. The announcement was covered by maritime industry outlets Marine Link and Marine Technology News. The product reflects growing interest in using ocean data and forecasting to cut fuel use and emissions across the commercial shipping sector.

The U.S. Army has selected five companies to prototype a long-range maritime strike missile, part of its push to field capabilities for hitting ships at extended distances. The move signals the Army's growing role in anti-ship warfare, traditionally a Navy and Air Force mission, and has drawn attention from defense watchers tracking U.S. preparations for potential Pacific contingencies.

Shipping traffic is backing up in the Baltic, particularly the Gulf of Finland, as vessels queue off Russian ports. The Maritime Executive reports growing congestion, with observers linking the delays to the ongoing war in Ukraine and wider trade disruption affecting the shipping industry in the region.

The Government Accountability Office is calling on the U.S. Coast Guard and Congress to strengthen marine firefighting capabilities. The watchdog's appeal highlights concerns over how prepared federal agencies are to combat fires aboard vessels, and recommends legislative and operational steps to close gaps in response capacity at sea.