ABS has opened a state-of-the-art Offshore & Marine Support Center in Bergen, Norway, to strengthen its technical presence in one of the world’s leading maritime and energy hubs. The facility houses specialized research and development engineers, design approval teams, commercial experts, and regional surveyors to support local owners. By integrating advanced capabilities in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and subsea technologies, the new hub aims to help Norwegian operators navigate complex decarbonization and safety challenges.
Bergen, Norway | September 11, 2026 – In a major move to anchor its technical presence in Northern Europe’s maritime heartland, ABS (American Bureau of Shipping) has officially opened a state-of-the-art Offshore & Marine Support Center in Bergen. The strategic hub brings advanced engineering, sustainability research, digital solutions, and dedicated survey resources directly to one of the world’s most technically demanding energy and maritime arenas.
Designed to serve as a collaborative bridge between local marine innovators and ABS’s vast international network, the new facility reinforces the classification society’s long-term commitment to Norway’s evolving shipping and offshore sectors.
Inside the Bergen Hub: R&D, Engineering, and Survey Capabilities
The newly inaugurated Bergen center is structured as a multidisciplinary powerhouse, housing specialized teams tailored to the unique demands of the Norwegian fleet:
- Research & Development Engineering: Dedicated R&D engineers collaborating directly with local maritime stakeholders to accelerate next-generation technology development.
- Design Approval Engineering: On-site experts providing rapid approvals for local shipowners and connecting Norwegian clients seamlessly to the global ABS engineering grid.
- Commercial & Survey Operations: A specialized commercial team focused on deepening relationships across Norway’s maritime community, alongside serving as the primary regional headquarters for ABS surveyors.
Beyond traditional class and statutory services, the Bergen hub is heavily geared toward the advanced technological disciplines reshaping modern shipping and offshore energy, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, subsea technologies, and advanced risk and consulting services.
Executive Perspectives: Partnering with the Future of Maritime Innovation
Norway’s North Sea basin remains a global crucible for complex offshore operations, ranging from conventional oil and gas support to pioneering offshore wind developments and low-emission vessel designs.
“Our commitment to Norway goes beyond class excellence. We see Norway as a leading center for innovation and expertise that will help define the future of maritime,” said John McDonald, ABS Chairman and CEO. “As we expand our presence here, we are investing in capabilities that support both traditional maritime services and the adjacent disciplines that are becoming increasingly important to our clients, including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, subsea technologies and risk and consulting services.“
McDonald emphasized that the new center’s core objective is rooted in operational enablement:
“Our ambition is straightforward: to be a trusted partner to Norwegian maritime. To support Norwegian owners as they design, build and operate the next generation of vessels and offshore assets, and help manage risk in an increasingly complex environment.”
By anchoring its engineering and R&D talent directly in Bergen, ABS is well-positioned to guide Norwegian shipowners through the stringent regulatory and technological shifts driving the global energy transition.
About the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)
The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) is a leading international classification society dedicated to promoting the security of life, property, and the natural environment through the development and verification of standards for the design, construction, and operational maintenance of marine and offshore assets. Founded in 1862 and headquartered in Houston, Texas, ABS supports the global maritime industry with cutting-edge technical services, regulatory compliance guidance, and innovative solutions that drive sustainability, safety, and performance.
With a strong presence in over 70 countries, ABS works closely with shipowners, operators, shipyards, equipment manufacturers, and regulators to deliver practical insights into evolving technologies and environmental standards. As a trusted advisor, ABS plays a pivotal role in enabling the transition to low- and zero-emission shipping through research, classification, and advisory services on alternative fuels, digitalization, and decarbonization pathways.
Source: American Bureau of Shipping