ABS and Siemens Digital Industries Software have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to modernize how classification societies interact with ship designers and builders through advanced digital tools and product lifecycle management (PLM) systems.
An ABS statement said the collaboration aims to streamline classification processes across ship design, construction, and operation by integrating digital twin technology, model-based verification, and secure data exchange. The initiative will also focus on improving efficiency, data integrity, and regulatory compliance across the vessel lifecycle.
Under the agreement, the two companies will explore projects involving Class Rule application within 3D design environments, model-based verification, and digital twin integration. The effort will also include joint research projects and workshops designed to align classification with evolving digital shipbuilding practices.
ABS said the partnership will combine the ABS Freedom™ PLM platform with Siemens’ Xcelerator platform to support maritime regulations and enhance digital twin and simulation capabilities used in classification.
“As the classification process is an integral part of ship design and building workflow, we understand the high importance of it. That is why we are delighted to sign an MOU with ABS to explore and establish a strategic collaboration aimed at accelerating and adapting the digital transformation of maritime classification processes,” added Joe Bohman, executive vice president of PLM products at Siemens Digital Industries Software.
The companies noted the partnership reflects a broader industry shift toward digital shipbuilding and verification practices, as classification societies and technology firms look to improve collaboration and reduce time-to-class through shared data platforms and simulation-driven validation.
