Direct negotiated procedure with prior publication for a Maritime Awareness Study

The present assignment concerns a study with the aim of developing a future-oriented vision for maritime imaging within the Belgian part of the North Sea. An analysis is initially carried out of the current situation (As-Is), with an inventory of the existing sensors, monitoring systems, and data sources. A desired future situation (To-Be) is then defined, determining which information needs, operational capabilities and technological capabilities are necessary to achieve an optimal maritime image. The study aims to develop an integrated overview of the existing and potential future sensors and detection means on and around the North Sea, as well as the possibilities to efficiently process, combine and visualize the collected data. Special attention is paid to data fusion, automation and the use of AI technologies, with the aim of achieving a coherent, current and operationally useful maritime situational picture of the North Sea and its users. The maritime environment in the Belgian part of the North Sea is characterized by increasing complexity and a growing diversity of activities and users. To guarantee maritime safety, security and situational awareness, it is essential to have the most complete and up-to-date picture of what is happening on, above and below the sea surface. Potential threats, incidents and anomalous activities must be able to be detected in a timely manner so that the competent authorities can act quickly and effectively. Today's existing monitoring and detection tools do not provide sufficient opportunities to provide a complete and integrated overview of all relevant maritime activities and potential risks. New technologies, innovative sensors and applications of artificial intelligence (AI) can provide important added value