North Star Becomes First to Achieve Lloyd’s Register Cyber Resilience Classification
North Star, a leading U.K.-based service operation vessel (SOV) operator, has made history by becoming the first organization in the world to have its ships achieve Lloyd’s Register’s Cyber Resilience classification. This significant milestone aligns with the mandatory International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) standards, which are set to be implemented for all newbuilds starting from July 1, 2024.
The two new commissioning service operation vessels (CSOVs) of North Star, namely the Grampian Kestrel and Grampian Eagle, have been formally approved by Lloyd’s Register to the LR Rules implementing IACS standards UR E26 (Cyber Resilience of Ships) and UR E27 (Cyber Resilience of On-Board Systems and Equipment). This certification enhances their capacity to withstand cyberattacks, operate effectively under threat, and recover swiftly from incidents, ensuring the safety of personnel and onboard systems while sustaining critical offshore operations.
These state-of-the-art vessels, designed and constructed at the Vard Langsten shipyard in Norway, represent North Star’s initial CSOV additions to its expanding renewables fleet as part of its goal to incorporate 40 SOVs by 2040.
Commitment to Safe and Sustainable Operations
Gitte Gard Talmo, CEO of North Star, expressed her pride in being the first to certify their newbuilds under the stringent IACS standards, emphasizing the company’s dedication to safe, smart, and sustainable offshore operations. Collaboration with VARD and Lloyd’s Register played a crucial role in this achievement, showcasing North Star’s proactive approach to advancing the cyber resilience of its CSOVs and staying ahead of industry developments.
“We are prepared to support the next phase of Europe’s offshore wind expansion with a focus on trust, security, and future-proof strategies integrated into our operations from the outset,” stated Talmo.
As part of the cyber resilience certification process, all critical systems onboard the CSOVs underwent thorough assessments against Lloyd’s Register’s Cyber Resilience classification criteria. This included evaluating technologies such as dynamic positioning software and the intricate control systems linked to the Voith Schneider propulsion units, aimed at enhancing operational safety and crew well-being.
Moreover, the vessels are equipped with Starlink communications systems to enhance onboard connectivity. With the cyber resilience accreditation in place, North Star’s personnel and assets are shielded from cyber threats without disrupting ongoing field operations.
Enhanced Service Reliability
James Bradford, North Star’s Chief Technology Officer, emphasized the importance of cyber resilience in today’s maritime landscape, stating, “Cyber resilience is no longer optional – it’s essential. Our newbuilds are designed to withstand, recover from, and adapt to cyber incidents, ensuring uninterrupted, secure service delivery and consistent performance for our clients. This guarantees that their operations and maintenance projects remain on track and shielded from cyber threats.”
The Grampian Kestrel is set to commence front-running operations at Germany’s He Dreiht wind farm for EnBW in May 2025, while the Grampian Eagle is gearing up for a contract in July.
North Star’s groundbreaking achievement in securing the Lloyd’s Register Cyber Resilience classification underscores its commitment to innovation, safety, and operational excellence in the offshore energy sector.