Geopolitical Volatility, AI in Safety & Alternative Energy in Future Fleets

In this episode, Raal Harris and Nick Chubb look back on the dramatic turn of the last two week’s events and ask what rupture in the global rules based order could mean for shipping. They discuss how geopolitical volatility and tariffs are reshaping trade routes and operational risk, why global shipping has become harder to plan and manage. They discuss the need for energy security and the potential role of nuclear power with LR’s announcement of their UK Nuclear Consortium and how a move to nuclear propulsion could transform shipping. They also spotlight the announcement of the biggest ever battery powered vessel set to go into service and the wider impact battery powered ships could make in world trade.

The conversation then turns to Lomar shipping’s strategic pilot with AI start up Signal Fusion designed to aid predictive behavioural intelligence in maritime operations. They discuss how this could be an enabler for a human factors approach and whether AI could play a role in safety and decision-making, and why engaging crews is critical to safer operations.

Chapters

01:39 Global Shipping Landscape and Geopolitical Volatility

09:44 Impact of Tariffs and Uncertainty on Shipping

14:25 The Future of NATO and Global Trade

17:27 Energy Security and Nuclear Shipping Innovations

25:29 Battery-Powered Ships and Their Potential

28:21 Decarbonisation in Australia: A Pioneer Approach

31:49 Navigating Risks in Battery Technology

34:28 Human Factors in Maritime Operations

40:22 AI and Human Performance in Shipping

53:43 Engagement and Feedback in Maritime Safety