SMAUG Project team interviews!
We are thrilled to present our remarkable team and the collective journey we are embarking upon to a safer maritime environment!
As we gather in unity, each consortium partner brings a unique set of skills, perspectives, and expertise that contribute to the dynamic tapestry of our collaboration. The SMAUG team forms a cohesive force driven by a shared vision and a commitment to excellence aiming to improve and enhance the security of ports and their entrance routes.
A highly experienced consortium consisting of 22 partners including Universities, Research Centres, SMEs, Law Enforcement Agencies, Public authorities, Coastal / Border guards and Private organisations which span across 7 EU countries (Spain, Estonia, France, Italy, Germany, Greece, Norway) countries shaping the SMAUG consortium!
Let’s sail away to meet the SMAUG partners.
University of Piraeus Research Center(Greece)
Aggelos Aggelakakis introduces UPRC and his views on the SMAUG project!
Let us know more about yourself. How your expertise is linked with the project. What drives you to be involved in the project?
UPRC brings significant expertise to the SMAUG project, in all fields of maritime transport, including security and surveillance. It utilizes underwater technologies, including an autonomous vessel, as well as UAV and ROV vehicles, to enhance maritime monitoring and security. UPRC’s history of successful collaborations with key port stakeholders, including shipping industries and regulatory bodies indicates our ability to integrate SMAUG’s solutions into existing infrastructures. Driven by a commitment to societal benefits, UPRC views SMAUG as a significant platform for applying our research to achieve real-world impacts, especially in combating illicit activities and enhancing public safety. This involvement also offers educational advantages and promotes international collaboration.
UPRC’s role in SMAUG. In which activities you are involved? Which results do you expect to generate?
UPRC plays a key role in the SMAUG project, focusing on coordination activities, to ensure that the project aligns with maritime security needs. Leading Task 3.3, our responsibilities include the analysis of end-users and authorities’ requirements, achieved through direct collaboration with port authorities and Coast Guards, in order to address essential needs for enhancing maritime security. We are also tasked with coordinating the implementation of SMAUG’s solutions in two Greek ports, Heraklion and Elefsis, tailoring approaches to fit local conditions and maximize their practical applicability. Our involvement is expected to yield valuable results, including a comprehensive assessment of maritime security needs and the development of strong stakeholder relationships, both being significant to the success of SMAUG’s solutions. Demonstrating these solutions in real-world Greek port scenarios, UPRC aims to test their effectiveness, while planning to enhance the detection and prevention of illegal activities, thus providing a model for broader implementation.
How do you think SMAUG is expected to impact the community?
SMAUG is set to significantly boost community safety and maritime security by implementing advanced technologies, including acoustic and sonar detection, as well as utilizing autonomous surface and underwater vehicles. These technologies are designed to monitor and protect ports from illicit activities, such as smuggling and trafficking. This initiative will not only safeguard critical maritime infrastructure but will also enhance the safety of surrounding communities.
And finally, what is the most exciting part of the SMAUG project?
The most exciting aspect of the SMAUG project for UPRC is the pioneering integration of advanced technologies and collaborative efforts to enhance maritime security. Taking advantage of a comprehensive range of detection techniques, including acoustic and sonar scans and a swarm of autonomous underwater vehicles, the project represents a significant leap forward in safeguarding maritime domains. This technological innovation aims to redefine standards in port security and smuggling prevention, marking SMAUG a potential benchmark in the field and promising a substantial and positive impact on global maritime safety.
Explore UPRC: https://www.unipi.gr/en/home/
Discover the SMAUG team!