Baku: Azerbaijan is taking steps to establish a legal framework for the operation of autonomous ships as outlined in the proposed amendments to the Merchant Shipping Code. The principles for managing these ships and the procedures for regulating their activities were discussed during a meeting of the Milli Majlis Committee on Economic Policy, Entrepreneurship, and Industry.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the draft amendments define an autonomous ship as a civilian vessel capable of operating via an automated control system during any part of a voyage or throughout the entire journey without direct or continuous human intervention. The operator of such a ship must hold a relevant certificate to ensure the functioning of the ship's automated control system. Additionally, a remote control center will be established to manage the ship's automated systems remotely.

The proposed amendments specify that the Code will apply to autonomous ships with high and full automation levels. High automation involves navigation control and detection of objects and events by the system, with operator supervision, while full automation allows the system to operate without any operator supervision. Ship owners are responsible for maintaining vessels according to the manufacturer's technical and software requirements, engaging certified operators for navigation, and establishing intervention procedures for malfunctions and emergencies.

The framework also requires that remote control centers and operators adhere to requirements set by the Law on Transport, other Azerbaijani legal acts, and international maritime treaties. The provisions concerning ship registration, state flag and port control, and navigation in territorial waters will also apply to autonomous ships.

Autonomous ships may operate only within designated areas specified by the relevant executive authority. Operators must obtain certification according to the Law on Transport, and they are tasked with ensuring real-time data transmission and the protection of data related to the autonomous ship's operations.

The draft law mandates that autonomous ships' automated control systems have collision avoidance capabilities. Movement within seaports and maritime operation bases will require port captain permission. The proposed amendments were voted on and adopted in the third reading.