ABSTRACT: The maritime sector’s rapid digital transformation – including the integration of IT and operational technology (OT) systems and the rise of autonomous vessels – has significantly expanded the cyberattack surface[1] . Artificial Intelligence (AI) now plays a dual role in this landscape, acting as both a powerful enabler of cyberattacks and a critical tool for cybersecurity defense [2] . This paper explores current and emerging uses of AI in offensive and defensive cyber operations targeting maritime systems and infrastructure. On the offensive side, threat actors are leveraging AI for sophisticated attacks such as AI-generated spear phishing, polymorphic malware generation, GPS spoofing, and manipulation of industrial control systems (ICS)[3], [4]. On the defensive side, AI is employed in anomaly detection, predictive analytics, autonomous vessel and port monitoring, and other security applications[5]. The paper also examines vulnerabilities of AI itself – including adversarial attacks, data poisoning, and model manipulation – and discusses strategies to enhance maritime cyber resilience. Key strategies include the use of digital twin simulations, AI-driven deception (honeypots), adversarial training, explainable AI, and international cooperation for information sharing. By analyzing both offensive and defensive developments, this study provides a comprehensive perspective on the dual-use nature of AI in shaping the future of maritime cybersecurity.

KEYWORDS: Maritime Industry, Satellite Communications, GNSS Spoofing Attack, Cybersecurity, Maritime Cybersecurity, Ship Control Systems, Digitalization in Shipping, Network Security

REFERENCES