Wärtsilä has launched NTPRO 7, a next-generation maritime simulator featuring Unreal Engine 5 visualization and AI-powered voice recognition. Designed to prepare crews for digital navigation and wind-assisted propulsion, the DNV-compliant platform will be commercially available in May 2026. This launch addresses the global maritime industry’s urgent need for advanced, future-ready training solutions in a rapidly digitalizing landscape.
Helsinki | April 21, 2026 – As the maritime industry accelerates its digital transformation, technology group Wärtsilä has launched NTPRO 7, a sophisticated bridge and ship-handling simulator designed to bridge the gap between traditional training and the complex, high-tech reality of modern bridge operations.
The launch comes at a critical juncture for the industry. With the rapid shift toward digital navigation and increasingly integrated bridge systems, training institutions are under immense pressure to develop crew competencies that keep pace with technological change.
Immersive Realism via Unreal Engine 5
The standout feature of NTPRO 7 is the introduction of RealSea visualization. Powered by Unreal Engine 5, the platform delivers high-fidelity, physically accurate environments that are further enhanced by an advanced sound system. This level of immersion is designed to replicate the sensory experience of a real vessel, allowing mariners to practice decision-making in a risk-free, yet startlingly realistic, setting.
To ensure the highest standards of safety and educational efficacy, the simulator has already received a Statement of Compliance from DNV, verifying its suitability for professional navigation training.
Future-Ready Features for Modern Crews
Beyond visual upgrades, NTPRO 7 introduces several “industry-first” tools aimed at the next generation of shipping:
- S-100 Ready Navigation: The platform incorporates Wärtsilä Navi-Sailor, an advanced ECDIS system that prepares crews for the upcoming S-100 universal hydrographic data model standards.
- AI-Powered Virtual Watchkeeper: Utilizing voice command recognition, this AI tool allows trainees to interact with the simulation naturally, enhancing the realism of bridge communication.
- Wind-Assisted Propulsion (WAPS) Training: In response to the industry’s decarbonization efforts, the simulator includes specific models to train crews on handling vessels equipped with modern wind-propulsion technologies.
- Modernized Displays: New conning and overhead displays mirror the actual hardware found on modern newbuilds.
Johan Ekvall, Director, Simulation & Training, Wärtsilä Marine, said “The requirements placed on maritime training are evolving rapidly as vessel technologies, digital navigation standards and regulatory expectations continue to advance. NTPRO 7 is designed to help training institutions and academies prepare crews for these changes by providing a future-ready simulation environment that mirrors modern bridge operations.”
Scalability and Availability
Recognizing that training needs vary by institution, Wärtsilä has designed NTPRO 7 to be highly scalable. Configurations range from comprehensive full-mission bridge simulators to compact classroom setups. This flexibility allows academies to deliver consistent, high-quality instruction regardless of their physical footprint.
Following two years of extensive piloting and validation, Wärtsilä NTPRO 7 will be commercially available starting May 2026.
About Wärtsilä Marine
Wärtsilä Marine is a global pioneer in power, propulsion, and lifecycle solutions for the marine market. The company develops industry-leading technologies to advance maritime’s transition to Alternative fuels and supports an end-to-end digital ecosystem connecting vessels and ports. Their portfolio includes engines, propulsion systems, hybrid technology, exhaust treatment, and digital technologies.
About Wärtsilä
Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy industries. With a team of 17,900 professionals operating in 199 locations across 78 countries, Wärtsilä is shaping the decarbonization transformation. In 2025, Wärtsilä’s net sales totaled EUR 6.9 billion. The company is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.
Source: Wärtsilä