
One major challenge we face daily is providing updates, bug fixes, and support to vessels in areas with limited or slow internet connectivity. To address this issue, we have initiated a project to develop a network protocol to achieve secure, encrypted communication between vessels for delivering updates. As a significant milestone, we are excited to announce Fleet Nexus v2, in which we have integrated post-quantum cryptography (PQC) directly into the core of our network. This proactive measure helps ensure the safety and security of our network.
We use ML-KEM (Module-Lattice-Based Key-Encapsulation Mechanism), which is a quantum-resistant algorithm that NIST has approved. ML-KEM is based on math problems that are still hard for even the most powerful quantum computers to solve. This is different from regular cryptography methods, which will be easy for future quantum computers to break because they will have so much processing power.
This isn't just a theory; it's a way to keep yourself safe from attacks that say, "harvest now, decrypt later." In this case, adversaries collect encrypted marine data now and store it so they can read it when quantum computers are powerful enough. This long-term threat is especially bad for the marine industry because it needs to keep training records, operational data, and intellectual property safe for years. We use a hybrid encryption system that combines today's standards and the quantum resistance of ML-KEM. This protects us in the short and long term, making sure that important vessel data stays private for the whole time it is in use.
Easy and Rapid Deployment
Getting updates to a fleet that is spread out all over the world and only sometimes connected is one of the biggest problems we face These updates could be important security patches, software bug fixes, updated or new training materials. Our all-encompassing technical approach turns this issue into a smooth, automated process.
The most important thing is how well our advanced synchronization methods work with our VPN overlay network, which is spread out. This is how it works:
- Strong, automated connectivity: The overlay network connects ships to our cloud infrastructure in a safe and permanent way whenever they have internet access, even if it's only for a short time or at a slow speed. It controls the flow of data so that updates are sent to vessel clients automatically during certain times when they are connected, without anyone having to do anything.
- Optimized Bandwidth Usage: We know that satellite connections aren't very good and cost a lot of money. Our method puts data transfer first, so the most important updates, like those about safety or urgent security fixes, are sent first. This smart data compression and prioritization makes the best use of the available bandwidth, which means that important resources are sent quickly.
- Eliminating Manual Processes: We don't need to give out physical media or have crew members do complicated file transfers by hand anymore. This automation makes things a lot easier for the crew and the IT employees. It also makes sure that all of the fleet's ships are always running the latest, safest software and have access to the most up-to-date training materials. This lowers the chance of human error.
It's very helpful that we can quickly and easily roll out updates, fixes, and new courses to the whole fleet. It makes sure that all seafarers get the same high-quality training. It also makes things safer by quickly fixing problems, and it saves a lot of money by making operations run more smoothly and lowering administrative costs.
Not only are we excited about the future of maritime cybersecurity, but we are also working on it right now. My valuable team Mert Kaan Ulugol, Ali Kamis, Baris Selayet, and Devrim Caner Okdem are in charge. We have a solution that meets the needs of today and helps our clients get ready for the problems of tomorrow.