MARCONNECT

Supporting Coast Guard Operations Through Innovation

MARCONNECT is a European project whose objective is to strengthen maritime surveillance and border security across Europe. It aims to improve surveillance coverage by addressing existing gaps through cost-effective monitoring, while ensuring cross-border interoperability, data protection, and integration with existing and legacy maritime systems.

The project introduces the concept of Vessel-Connected Services (VCS), a solution that enables civilian vessels to voluntarily and securely share outward-facing sensor data from sensors installed on board with Coast Guard Authorities. This transforms vessels into active nodes of a real-time, integrated maritime surveillance network. In return, Vessel Owners gain access to real-time connectivity and tailored third-party services, creating a mutually beneficial ecosystem.

INOV’s role:

Within MARCONNECT, INOV serves as Technical Manager, leading the scientific and technical coordination of the project. INOV leads the definition of user needs, technical requirements, and system architecture, as well as the development and testing of key components, including an innovative vessel Sensor Box and the decentralized Vessel Operations Platform (VOP).

INOV also leads the execution of the EU-wide VCS Use Case.
The project is implemented by a strong consortium of Coast Guard Authorities, Law Enforcement agencies, Maritime Industry leaders, SMEs, and Research Organizations, with the aim of contributing to the improvement of maritime safety in Europe.