EU and MASS

This chapter explores the transformative potential of autonomous vessels in European short-sea shipping and discusses regulatory approaches available to the EU. The EU’s role in funding research on MASS technology and the integration of such ships into supply chains is highlighted, along with the economic, political and technical reasons that autonomous shipping is particularly beneficial for Europe. The contribution examines the EU’s internal and external competence in the field of maritime transportation. Special attention is given to the ongoing legislative process on maritime autonomous surface ships at the IMO. This chapter discusses different European regulatory approaches and considers the implications of EU legislation for Norway. This chapter concludes by proposing a balanced approach to EU legislation on MASS, suggesting that the EU align with international regulations while ensuring legal certainty within its waters.