Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships

IACS aims to contribute to the development of MASS by actively participating in relevant forums, leveraging its maritime technical expertise, and fostering strong partnerships with regulators and industry stakeholders.

Latest News

2026-03-30

IACS 2025 Annual Review highlights the role of class in driving progress on maritime safety and innovation

IACS’s 2025 Annual Review explores the work of IACS and its classification society Members during 2025 in leading the development of technical requirements and guidance to support global shipping

Read Article

2026-03-27

IACS Publishes Recommendation 197 on hull structural steels up to 100mm thickness

The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has published a new recommendation, Rec.197 that complements the existing requirements of IACS Unified Requirement W11, currently addressing hull structural steels up to 100 mm thickness.

Read Article

Safer And Cleaner Shipping

Dedicated to safe ships and clean seas, IACS makes a unique contribution to maritime safety and regulation through technical support, compliance verification and research and development. More than 90% of the world’s cargo carrying tonnage is covered by the classification design, construction and through-life compliance Rules and standards set by the twelve Member Societies of IACS.

Position Papers

IACS “Position Papers” are issued and reviewed regularly by IACS on key topics for the Industry. These position papers provide background to the subject matter, IACS position on the subject and summary of actions that IACS has taken.

Learn more

Annual Review

IACS, the membership organisation for the world’s leading classification societies, has published its 2025 Annual Review, which showcases the central role played by IACS and its Members in supporting safety standards and driving technical innovation in the maritime industry.

Learn More