Keynote Speaker

Abstract:

Ports of today are increasingly vulnerable to a diverse array of threats and illicit activities. These range from piracy and armed robbery at sea to organized crime, including the smuggling of migrants and human trafficking, as well as the trafficking of arms and narcotics. Terrorism, illegal and unreported fishing and other unauthorized activities, such as exploration in the exclusive economic zones of EU Member States, further exacerbate these challenges. Additionally, the presence of unexploded ordnance at sea in close proximity to travel routes poses another significant risk.
The purpose of this paper is to highlight innovative methods of addressing these threats through the lens of modern technological developments. In the context of enhancing por security, the use of Unmanned Surface Vehicle Systems, Underwater Remote Operation Vehicles and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles has been brought forward, while at the same time, following the advancement of digitizing port operations, the use of Artificial Intelligence in matters of security has also been introduced. In order to achieve this, the paper identifies the stakeholders involved in port security and presents their primary needs and requirements. These requirements are evaluated and categorized, leading to methods proposed to promote safety and security. The proposed structure of the paper includes a presentation of the main security risks in ports and the identification of the key requirements of port authorities and end users in terms of security. The latter will be conducted through structured questionnaires / interviews, leading to the evaluation of these requirements and finally, possible implementation methods.

Biography:

Mr. Georgios Ntanis is an Electrical and Electronic Engineer (BEng) currently working as a research associate in EU and national projects run by the University of Piraeus Research Center (UPRC). He has graduated from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh in 2002 and further specialized in telecommunications and networks with an MSc degree in Mobile and Distributed Computer Networks from Leeds Metropolitan University in 2004. Since then, his work experience has been accumulated mainly in industry, especially in technical and consulting roles, involving solution design and implementation. During this time, he has organized and hosted a number of technical seminars, trainings and workshops, while also continuing his education in the field by attending short courses and achieving further certifications. Being involved in various sectors of industry throughout his career, he has obtained a well-rounded work experience, suitable for numerous types of research projects concerning engineering-related topics.