Port of Antwerp-Bruges is taking traffic management to the next level with the launch of an extensive digital radar and camera network. This advanced equipment scans the entire Antwerp port area and will become the backbone of safe and efficient shipping traffic. Following the recently launched drone network, this represents another important step towards the realisation of a complete digital nervous system covering the area.

The 460 cameras and 22 radars are directly connected to the Antwerp Coordination Centre and provide operational services such as Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) and the Harbour Master's Office with a comprehensive view of the port. This allows them to closely monitor shipping and incidents and to manage waterways and moorings more efficiently and safely according to the highest IALA (International Association of Lighthouse Authorities) standards. The images are then viewed and analysed by colleagues with police powers and can also be shared with security services and other authorities.

With this network launching today, the port now has one of the most advanced and high-performance systems of any port in the world. With the digitisation of the entire network, it is also ready to be connected to APICA (Advanced Port Information and Control Assistant), the port's digital twin.

The smart cameras are equipped with specially designed artificial intelligence that allows them to recognise ships. In combination with detailed radar data, this real-time data will further increase situational awareness in the future in order to evolve towards predictive and steering behaviour.

Rob Smeets, Chief Operations Officer Port of Antwerp-Bruges, said: “This network is a great asset to our port in terms of safety and operational efficiency. The new sensors form the technological backbone of shipping guidance. In the past, there were a few blind spots in the port area where we had no insight into unexpected shipping movements or incidents. Thanks to the successful cooperation with our concessionaires, we have been able to install radars and cameras in many new locations. There isn't a single centimetre of the terrain that escapes this extensive network."

Erwin Verstraelen, Chief Digital and Innovation Officer Port of Antwerp-Bruges, said: “This network is essential for the further rollout of a digital nervous system across the physical port to support a safer and more secure port. Integrating this data into the digital twin brings us closer to the goal of having a finger on the pulse of what is happening in the vast port area permanently and everywhere.” 

Annick De Ridder, Vice-Mayor of the City of Antwerp and President of the board of directors of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, said: "This extensive state-of-the-art radar and camera network is a first in the port world. It's also coming online less than three months after the launch of our unique drone network. This shows that our port continues to invest heavily in the very latest technologies and infrastructure. The aim? To make the Antwerp port area with its 11,000 hectares of waterways and quays one of the safest and most efficiently run in the world and to improve and strengthen our service to customer companies."