“With the MODULARIS seagoing technology platform, we are creating a globally unique foundation for maritime transformation. New energy, navigation, and communication systems can in future be integrated, tested and brought to certification readiness more quickly under real operating conditions,” said Anke Kaysser-Pyzalla, Chair of the DLR Executive Board.

“In doing so, we are strengthening innovation, security, resilience and technological sovereignty in Germany and Europe. Today, we already invite our partners from government agencies, industry and business – in particular SMEs and start-ups – to come aboard and test new maritime technologies together with DLR.”

The platform will be equipped with redundant safety and control systems, enabling novel, as-yet uncertified energy, navigation and communication systems to be tested for the first time. This will help accelerate development and certification processes. A digital twin – a virtual model of the ship – will also allow comprehensive simulations and analyses to prepare for and complement practical development work, according to a press release.

The research team will test fuel cell, battery, sensor and automation systems, among other technologies. They will also trial the use of alternative fuels such as methanol, ammonia and hydrogen, for which the vessel will be fitted with an experimental engine room. In addition, the platform will support the deployment of uncrewed systems such as drones.

With MODULARIS as a seagoing technology platform and the infrastructure in Kiel, a globally unique location is being created for the development and testing of future maritime technologies, further strengthening Schleswig-Holstein’s position as an innovation hub in this field. DLR is also expanding its facility in Kiel, with new office, research, and laboratory spaces with direct access to the water are being built on the MaK Campus.

The vessel will be 48 metres long and 11.5 metres wide, with capacity for up to 20 people. Test voyages are planned primarily in the North Sea, Baltic Sea, and Mediterranean, with missions lasting up to seven days, as per the release.