VARD Unveils Pioneering Vessels with Cybersecurity Certification Amidst Evolving Industry Standards

Screengrab from LinkedIn video posted by VARD
Ålesund, Norway 02.06.2025: A recent publication by VARD, a leading global designer and builder of specialized vessels under the Fincantieri Group, highlights their achievement in delivering two of the first vessels equipped with cyber notation ahead of the mandatory regulations set to take effect on july 1st, 2024.

The CSOV Grampian Kestrel for North Star and the CSOV Purus Chinook for Purus are both compliant with new cybersecurity standards that ensure robust protection against cyber threats throughout their lifecycle—from design to delivery. This integration enhances each vessel’s ability to withstand attacks and recover effectively.

James Bradford, Chief Technology Officer at North Star, emphasized that digital resilience is just as vital as operational reliability. He stated that the Grampian Kestrel exemplifies their commitment to building secure vessels designed from inception with cybersecurity in mind. This collaboration with VARD and Lloyd’s register ensures safety and innovation are at the forefront of offshore operations.

Both vessels meet unified requirements UR E26 and E27 established by the International Association of Class Societies (IACS), which will be mandatory for new builds contracted after July 1st, 2024. Notably, these ships where commissioned in 2023 before these regulations came into play—showing VARD’s proactive approach alongside partners like Purus and North Star.

Cathrine Kristiseter Marti, CEO of VARD, remarked on this milestone as a significant step forward for both maritime technology advancement and their position within it. She noted how essential these notations are in establishing best practices against evolving cyber threats while showcasing a commitment to innovation.

Amrit Bhullar from VARD highlighted how early discussions about cybersecurity have fostered a culture focused on resilience across all levels—from design through supply chain collaboration—ultimately enhancing risk management capabilities for clients like North Star and Purus.

A considerable portion of onboard systems comes from Vard Electro’s SeaQ portfolio. Their close cooperation with customers has been crucial in ensuring compliance with regulatory standards while taking charge of extensive cyber integration testing across all systems onboard—a testament to their role as an innovative system integrator ready to tackle emerging security challenges.

Thomas Pedersen from Vard Electro pointed out that as shipboard systems grow more complex digitally, there’s an increasing demand on integrators like them to provide solutions built around cyber resilience right from the start. Secure connections between systems are vital; each must be designed carefully to prevent unauthorized access while maintaining operational integrity.

Henning Karleif Øye serves as VP Cyber Resilience at VARD; he shared insights into fostering a strong security culture throughout their value chain—not just focusing on defense but also promoting proactive strategies against potential unknown threats.

Duncan Duffty from Lloyd’s Register noted that achieving high levels of cybersecurity maturity is becoming critical within shipping due to ongoing digitalization efforts across maritime operations. He praised how early recognition by companies like VARD and North Star regarding necesary protections has paved the way for successful implementation ahead of formal regulations.

On another note regarding performance comfort: The Purus Chinook stands out as the world’s first Commissioning Service Operation Vessel (CSOV) awarded a COMF C2 V1 class notation addressing climate control along with noise reduction measures—while Grampian Kestrel received Lloyd’s highest rating CAC1 for noise/vibration management setting new benchmarks globally for offshore working conditions aimed at enhancing crew welfare during long-term operations at sea.