New Delhi-based global developer of simulation training systems for the maritime sector, ARI Simulation, has expanded its international footprint, launching operations in Singapore with Bhupesh Gandhi at the helm.
A well-known name in maritime technologies and simulation circles, Gandhi joined Applied Research International (ARI) as Singapore CEO based on the company’s proven track record and rich heritage in maritime simulation with a goal to address the most pressing issues facing the industry today at one of the world’s top maritime hubs, including decarbonisation, increasing automation, remote operations, and competency assessment.
“ARI recognises that Singapore is a world-renowned maritime and technology hub, and I am pleased to be leading this effort for ARI to play an important role as an integral part of the maritime ecosystem in Singapore and the broader APAC region,” Gandhi, whose past career includes stints at maritime tech firms Transas, Maris, Navico, Group Nautical and Wärtsilä, tells Maritime CEO.
He finds it “an exciting time” to be in the marine tech industry, saying that with the regulatory environment evolving, the potential to increase safety and efficiency in maritime operations is immense. For Gandhi, the Singapore marine community is exceptionally well-positioned to spearhead the adoption of digital solutions in the sector.
“The community encompasses several leading maritime technology companies, and Singapore serves as a major hub for maritime research and development. It stands at the forefront of initiatives such as the Smart Port Challenge and the Digital Acceleration for Maritime (DAM) program, both of which actively support the development and implementation of digital solutions within the marine industry,” he says.
Founded by Captain S Rewari in 1994, ARI was the first maritime technology company to deploy a cloud-based OEM type-specific simulation product on a global scale, used both onshore and onboard to issue over 100,000 certificates to seafarers. The company’s solutions are used by asset owners, managers, OEMs, education and training providers, government bodies, and defense establishments.
Gandhi sees these digital solutions as instrumental in helping the maritime industry tackle a wide range of pressing issues by improving training effectiveness, enhancing safety measures, increasing operational efficiency, ensuring regulatory compliance, enabling remote capabilities, and enabling data-driven decision-making. “These solutions pave the way for a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable maritime industry,” he says.
Looking ahead, the company is set on the business expansion of not only its simulation systems but also its recently released digital SaaS portfolio of solutions and is looking to continue its collaboration with universities, research institutes, and technology companies in the region to foster innovation, knowledge exchange, and industry collaboration through knowledge networks.
