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If that's the case, then why aren't cargo ships already automated to this extent? It seems like automating a container vessel would be even easier - there are f
by quanticle 10y ago
If that's the case, then why aren't cargo ships already automated to this extent? It seems like automating a container vessel would be even easier - there are far fewer things to run into on the water (even in a busy port) than there are on a busy highway.
- jon_richards 10y agoPirates? You need a crew on cargo ships regardless of whether they are automated or not.
- rtkwe 10y agoCrews generally aren't armed to begin with and with no humans to capture and ransom or threaten to change the ships course the amount of booty they could make off with is really limited. Most pirate attacks target hostages anyways. For engineering you could have small crews fly out to any one ship that's experienced engine trouble.
- patates 10y agoI would bet because the wage paid is insignificant compared to maintenance of the vessel and that the maritime laws would be further complicating such a scenario.
- vintermann 10y agoNot so much maintenance as capital costs, I think. Giant cargo vessels can't be replaced as often as trucks either. But drone ships are certainly coming, it's a very trendy topic in the trade publications. I'd give it 10 years.