Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships: A Review of Cybersecurity Challenges, Countermeasures, and Future Perspectives

Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) have brought a transformative wave in the marine industry, yielding unprecedented operational advancements and efficiency gains. However, this paradigm shift has concurrently raised substantial cybersecurity concerns that demand meticulous attention to mitigate the impact of attacks on MASS stability. This study presents a comprehensive examination of the cybersecurity landscape, shedding light on prevalent issues concerning the data independence, integrity, and connectivity of MASS. The effectiveness of existing defense strategies against both inbound and outbound cyberattacks, focusing on attack detection and classification, is rigorously scrutinized. This analysis encompasses regulatory frameworks, encryption methods, intrusion detection systems, and a systematic approach to identifying and categorizing cyber threats. Additionally, the study anticipates future developments in cyber threats and proposes innovative solutions to fortify MASS defenses against potential cybersecurity vulnerabilities. To align with cybersecurity standards, this paper integrates challenges, possible solutions, and future advancements in a structured and cohesive manner, ensuring a thorough understanding of the intricate cybersecurity ecosystem surrounding Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships.