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Full Speed Ahead for Cyber Resilience at Sea

Achieving Ship Classification with WAGO Security Consulting

Achieving Ship Classification with WAGO Security Consulting

Challenge: Rising Cyber Threats in Maritime Systems

Modern vessels are highly automated and digitally networked—making them prime targets for cyberattacks. Scenarios such as manipulated navigation data, blocked propulsion controls, or encrypted onboard networks are no longer hypothetical. These threats endanger not only onboard systems but also human lives and global supply chains.

To counter this, the maritime industry is implementing binding standards such as IEC 62443 and IACS guidelines UR E26 and UR E27. These require systematic hardening of all IT and OT systems, from development through commissioning. Meeting these standards demands deep technical expertise, a holistic security strategy, and close collaboration among all stakeholders.

Securing a Bow Thruster System: SCHOTTEL and WAGO as Pilot Partners

Cybersecurity doesn’t start on board — it begins during planning and development on land. That’s why WAGO, in collaboration with propulsion specialist SCHOTTEL, launched a pilot project to proactively prepare maritime systems for today’s cybersecurity requirements — with measurable success.

The project focused on the comprehensive protection of a bow thruster system. To meet this challenge, the partners were required to comply with stringent standards, including international standard IEC 62443 and IACS guidelines for maritime applications.

The objective was to evaluate an existing system for potential vulnerabilities using these standards and to implement appropriate technical safeguards. To achieve this, all interfaces and communication paths were disclosed to identify possible attack vectors.

WAGO Security Consulting delivered comprehensive cybersecurity solutions for OT networks — supported by structured assessments, anomaly detection, customized security concepts, and technical implementation.

WAGO Security Consulting supports and coordinates close collaboration and communication between SCHOTTEL and other stakeholders to ensure compliance with IACS guidelines and achieve high cyber resilience system-wide.

The process began with a risk analysis, followed by asset management to identify all critical components. The system was then segmented into security zones, and potential threats were assessed. Finally, the project partners defined specific protective measures and validated their effectiveness through targeted testing.

WAGO Security Consulting supported the process with technical expertise, structured assessments, and tailored measures to secure the OT infrastructure. The joint project yielded a clearly structured, proven process that can be applied to other systems in the future — a strong signal for enhanced digital security at sea.

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