SAFE-MASS Sociotechnical Array Framework for Evolving Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships

Journal article, 2026

This paper explores the sociotechnical risk management challenges faced by Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) with an emphasis on cybersecurity. As the maritime sector increasingly embraces autonomous vessels to enhance efficiency and safety, it confronts new cybersecurity vulnerabilities and challenges. The paper outlines a comprehensive approach to identifying and mitigating cyber risks by examining the sociotechnical considerations within MASS. It underscores the importance of understanding how cyber threats can compromise the interaction between humans and systems, potentially impacting vessel operations performance and safety. Through a detailed description of the Sociotechnical Array Framework for Evolving Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (SAFE-MASS), which functions as a sociotechnical transition taxonomy, and by explaining how this can be used for securing MASS this research contributes valuable insights into developing safer and more efficient maritime operations, signaling a trans-formative shift in the industry’s future, especially by examining information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) integration within MASS highlights the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures in this emerging field.