The technology group Wärtsilä is assisting Bulgaria to become the first country in the Black Sea region with an integrated vessel traffic management and information system (VTMIS). The project represents a practical implementation of the Wärtsilä Sea Traffic Management (STM) concept, the global technology platform that enables ports and vessels to share information and work together in a collaborative environment. The Wärtsilä STM solution was delivered in December 2019 following the order placed in Q3 2019 by the Bulgarian Ports Infrastructure Company (BPI Co.). Recently Wärtsilä launched the first commercial product using STM technologies to the market, Wärtsilä Navi-Port.
“Technically, the STM planning and monitoring stations are connected to a cloud interface and the VTMIS, allowing multiple information systems to be connected under a single umbrella. This enables a secure and efficient data exchange between all stakeholders in the port, on the vessel, and in the shipping company offices, to create a competitive advantage for Bulgarian ports. This project further enhances Wärtsilä’s leading position in the field of sea traffic management and information systems,” says Nicolai Leontev, Lead Project Manager, Regional Europe, Wärtsilä Marine.
“We have worked with Wärtsilä, through its Transas business unit, for many years in some large-scale projects, and have always found them to be a reliable and valuable partner. This latest project builds on this relationship to develop the efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness of Bulgaria’s ports,” says Anguel Zabourtov, Director General of Bulgarian Ports Infrastructure Company.
BPI Co. manages the port infrastructure for the country’s public transport ports, and provides traffic management and shipping information services. The company has been responsible for the deployment of some of the most up-to-date and high-tech port operation systems. Installation of the Wärtsilä STM solution continues this focus.