Drivers, opportunities, and barriers, for adoption of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS)

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ABSTRACT The introduction of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) into the maritime transport sector has significantly accelerated, as illustrated by the growth of project prototypes and by academic research throughput. While the MASS race accelerates, motivated by recent discussions in the IMO, there are still critical barriers and considerable challenges awaiting the materialisation and integration of MASS into the maritime sector. This study reviews the literature and builds homogeneous clusters in relation to MASS drivers and opportunities, including barriers and solutions. The results show that many benefits will result from MASS, while at the same time there are still many barriers that may hinder the full integration of MASS into commercial ships and oceangoing vessels. Though some solutions and recommendations were discussed, it is suggested that the barriers are taken into consideration in all project prototypes and research, and by policy makers. Identification of drivers, opportunities, and barriers serves as a holistic tool for port policymakers, designers and builders (of project prototypes), and managers. The results envision the current and future needs of MASS in line with the transition toward smart and automated industry. Academically, the study enriches scholarly discussions on MASS while the clusters can be cross-pollinated in further empirical investigation.