ABS launches SeaTech Innovation Exchange in Greece and the US

Photo Caption (L to R): Joshua Huck, Deputy Chief of Mission, US Embassy of Greece; Vassilios Kroustallis, ABS Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer; and John Xylas, Executive Board Member of the Union of Greek Shipowners
Photo Caption (L to R): Joshua Huck, Deputy Chief of Mission, US Embassy of Greece; Vassilios Kroustallis, ABS Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer; and John Xylas, Executive Board Member of the Union of Greek Shipowners

ABS has launched the ABS SeaTech Innovation Exchange, creating two maritime technology centers in Athens and Houston.

The initiative aims to strengthen maritime innovation and expand cooperation between the Greek and US shipping sectors.

ABS said the new Exchange combines Houston’s research capabilities with Greece’s operational shipping expertise.

The program focuses on applied maritime research, technology development and industry collaboration.

“The Exchange concentrates on swiftly moving technology from development into day-to-day operations,” said John McDonald, Chairman and CEO of ABS.

The Houston center will focus on artificial intelligence, robotics, digital engineering, simulation and certification technologies.

ABS said the facility will also work with universities, startups, government researchers and US maritime academies.

The Athens center will focus on operational deployment, training and fleet-based technology applications.

The company said the center will use advanced simulation systems and AI-enabled learning environments to support maritime operations and crew preparation.

Patrick Ryan, ABS Chief Technology Officer, described the initiative as “a living exchange” connecting research with real-world maritime operations.

ABS officially announced the project during an event at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center in Athens.

Representatives from the US Embassy in Greece and the Union of Greek Shipowners attended the launch.

According to ABS, the Exchange will help accelerate the adoption of emerging technologies across commercial shipping fleets while supporting workforce development.