New Zelim base in Canada supports maritime market growth

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Zelim expands in Atlantic Canada

Zelim has opened new premises in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, with the site set to serve as its Atlantic Canada base from April 2026.

Zelim announced that the office will be located at the COVE ocean facility, which it described as a technology hub for maritime innovation.

The company said the site will support ongoing partnerships and future opportunities in the region for its AI-enabled technologies designed for safety and security operations at sea.

The move follows activity in the Canadian cruise, ferry and defence sectors.

In 2024, Zelim demonstrated its man-overboard detection and monitoring system, ZOE, to the Canadian Coast Guard and other maritime partners.

In 2025, the company was selected for the NATO DIANA Phase II programme, through which ZOE was used in a NATO naval exercise and introduced to the Royal Canadian Navy.

Zelim also secured a commercial contract with BC Ferries in February 2026 to equip four new-build ferries with its ZOE technology.

Leadership and regional plans

Zelim said the Canada office will be led by its newly appointed regional Vice President, Brigadier General (Retired) Tom Dunne.

Dunne has served as a search and rescue leader with the Royal Canadian Air Force and the United States Coast Guard.

Sam Mayall, Zelim’s Founder and CEO, said: “Given the scale and complexity of its maritime domain and the operational challenges associated with remote and harsh environments, Canada is a strategically important market for Zelim’s maritime detection and automated alerting capabilities.

“With a number of partnerships and agreements already in place in North America, and significant potential for future development, establishing this office base and bringing Tom on board were the next logical steps in our growth journey, with a view to a long-term presence and economic contribution in the region.”

Melanie Nadeau, CEO of COVE, said: “Zelim’s expansion into Canada is an important step for the maritime industry.

“Since first connecting with COVE in 2024 through Innovate UK’s Ocean ScaleUp Accelerator, Zelim has demonstrated the innovation and expertise that strengthen the sector.

“Its Canadian presence will enable new partnerships, foster collaboration, and deliver maritime detection and automated alerting solutions, with COVE supporting access to an ecosystem designed for growth and opportunity.”

Zelim said the new office follows the launch of a defence business unit and additions to its senior leadership team as it continues its international expansion.

BC Ferries selects Zelim rescue detection system for new ferries

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Zelim secures ferry detection contract

Zelim has secured a contract to supply its ZOE man-overboard (MOB) detection system to four hybrid-electric ferries being built for British Columbia Ferry Services (BC Ferries).

Zelim announced the contract on 25 March, stating that the partnership was agreed in February 2026 and that installation is expected to begin in 2027.

The hybrid-electric New Major Vessels will replace four end-of-life vessels and are scheduled to start service in 2029.

BC Ferries operates 37 vessels across 25 routes serving 47 terminals across nearly 1000 miles (1,600 kilometres) of coastal British Columbia.

Developed by Zelim, ZOE MOB uses computer vision and video analytics to provide 360-degree surveillance for vessel crew.

The AI-enabled system is trained on a proprietary maritime dataset of over 9.5 million annotated objects.

It is designed to detect man-overboard incidents instantaneously, in compliance with ISO 21195:2020, the international standard for shipborne man-overboard detection systems.

ZOE has also been independently tested by Lloyd’s Register to detect adults and children during daytime and night-time conditions.

Zelim sets out vessel rollout details

Sam Mayall, Zelim’s Founder and CEO, said: “We look forward to building a strong partnership with BC Ferries as we deliver our technology to its New Major Vessels.

“It secures a multi-vessel rollout for Zelim and demonstrates the growing value of our ZOE technology for passenger ships.

“It also reflects the positive momentum we’re continuing to build with vessel operators in the ferry sector – and more broadly across the North American market.”

Ed Hooper, BC Ferries’ Head of Fleet Renewal, said: “Safety is our first priority throughout the entire organisation.

“We look forward to working with Zelim to incorporate this innovative technology into our New Major Vessels as we modernise our fleet and further strengthen the safety of our passengers and crews.”

India mandates CCTV on ships to strengthen maritime safety

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India introduces new maritime safety rules

Zelim has reported that India’s Directorate General of Shipping has issued regulations requiring Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) systems to be installed on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more.

According to Zelim, the notice applies to both newbuild and existing Indian-flagged vessels, and extends as a recommendation to foreign-flagged ships calling at Indian ports.

It explained that compliance must be achieved by 12 February 2028 or at the vessel’s next classification renewal survey, whichever occurs later.

The company noted that India’s action follows several high-profile incidents involving crew disappearances, man-overboard cases, and collisions.

Zelim stated that the Indian government has pointed to delayed emergency response and reduced search and rescue (SAR) effectiveness in the absence of real-time situational awareness technologies.

CCTV coverage and technical specifications

According to Zelim, the Directorate General of Shipping has detailed specifications for camera placement and performance.

It reported that CCTV should cover the main deck, forecastle, mooring and stern areas, bridge, and superstructure.

The organisation advised that the specifications include requirements for night vision, resolution, positioning, and data storage.

It explained that these measures are intended to provide consistent and reliable oversight of shipboard activity.

The company said the directorate also recommended the use of AI-enabled software to strengthen monitoring capabilities.

Zelim’s position on international adoption

Zelim stated that India’s decision represents a model that other International Maritime Organization (IMO) member states should consider adopting.

It said that voluntary measures in maritime safety are no longer adequate.

The company explained that global adoption of consistent standards would improve safety for seafarers and ensure more reliable responses to shipboard incidents.

It added that aviation has integrated advanced situational awareness technologies for many years, while maritime has moved more slowly.

The group suggested that India’s decision could serve as a catalyst for broader regulatory change.

Quotes from Zelim leadership

Sam Mayall, Chief Executive Officer of Zelim, said: “This is a landmark decision from India’s maritime authorities and signals a step change in maritime safety thinking. By mandating smarter monitoring systems, India is setting a powerful example that other maritime nations should follow.”

Stewart Gregory, Chief Operating Officer of Zelim, said: “India has raised the bar for ship and crew safety, not just by mandating CCTV but in setting out a comprehensive specification for camera coverage, night vision, resolution, placement, and data storage. This is about more than surveillance; it’s about smart, intelligent, AI-based detection, tracking and alerting technology fully integrated into a ship’s safety protocols. India’s regulation goes significantly beyond current IMO requirements.”

Gregory added: “The maritime industry has lagged behind sectors like aviation when it comes to adopting advanced safety technologies. With proven situational awareness technology already available – capable of improving both incident prevention and response – a global situational awareness standard is long overdue. India’s directive should act as a catalyst for other nations to adopt similar measures.”

Zelim’s technology and support role

According to Zelim, its AI-powered monitoring systems can extend the benefits of India’s CCTV mandate by improving real-time prevention of incidents and supplying forensic evidence for investigations.

The company said that these technologies are designed to assist with accident prevention and support SAR operations.

It added that the systems also help deter criminal activities onboard vessels.

The business explained that it is already in direct contact with Indian authorities, including the Directorate General of Shipping and the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

It stated that it has offered technical support to ship owners and operators seeking to meet the new specifications.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

India’s CCTV mandate highlights how national authorities can require safety technologies that directly affect operational practice.

For fire and safety professionals, this development shows the value of mandatory standards in improving situational awareness and incident response.

It also underlines the role of integrated monitoring systems in supporting emergency planning and regulatory compliance.

The adoption of similar standards internationally could influence safety protocols across other high-risk sectors.

India mandates CCTV on ships to strengthen maritime safety: Summary

India’s Directorate General of Shipping has introduced rules mandating CCTV on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more.

The regulation applies to Indian-flagged vessels and recommends coverage for foreign-flagged ships visiting Indian ports.

Ships must comply by 12 February 2028 or at the next classification renewal survey.

Zelim reported that the regulations specify placement, night vision, resolution, and data storage requirements.

India has cited incidents where lack of real-time monitoring hindered emergency response and search and rescue.

The directorate has recommended the use of AI-enabled software to enhance monitoring.

Zelim’s Chief Executive Officer Sam Mayall welcomed the decision as a landmark for maritime safety.

Chief Operating Officer Stewart Gregory said the regulation goes beyond current IMO requirements.

Zelim believes voluntary measures are insufficient and has urged global adoption of consistent standards.

The company is working with Indian authorities and offering technical support to ship operators.

Zelim partners with US Navy on AI detection research

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Agreement enables joint trials with US Navy

Zelim has announced a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the US Navy’s Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Newport to test its AI detection system, ZOE Shield.

According to Zelim, the agreement allows the company to participate in BlueTIDE 2025, a demonstration event organised by 401 Tech Bridge, NavalX and the Northeast Tech Bridge.

The company explained that the event will conclude with a full-scale in-water trial on 28 August in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island.

Zelim said it is one of a small number of international companies selected for the 2025 BlueTIDE Prize Challenge following a competitive review process.

The company stated that this year’s mission scenario focuses on protecting subsea infrastructure from threats posed by small crewed and uncrewed autonomous systems.

ZOE Shield trial and operational role

Zelim reported that its role in the scenario is to detect small remotely operated surface vessels operating covertly in sensitive areas.

It said these craft may present a potential threat to subsea infrastructure by serving as a precursor to sabotage.

The company explained that its ZOE Shield system is based on the same AI engine used in its ZOE man overboard system, which is deployed in the cruise and offshore sectors.

It added that ZOE Shield extends these functions by providing situational awareness of small surface craft not using AIS.

The developer outlined that the system introduces automated classification and alerting, helping operators with early detection and response measures.

Features of the AI detection system

According to Zelim, ZOE Shield is designed to function in environments where GPS denial or radar jamming could limit conventional surveillance methods.

It stated that this makes the system relevant for security operations requiring layered detection and resilience against interference.

The company noted that the US Navy is evaluating the system as part of its assessment of intelligent surveillance technologies.

Zelim explained that this evaluation will take place in live operational scenarios during BlueTIDE.

It added that the data will be used to support the Navy’s capability review and potential future development.

CEO comments on defence scenario

Sam Mayall, CEO and co-founder of Zelim, said: “This agreement gives us a unique opportunity to trial ZOE Shield in an operational defence scenario at a US Navy facility, where multiple assets, including USVs will be deployed on the mission.

“This is about closing the gap between detection and decision, especially in domains where the threat is small, fast-moving and unpredictable.

“Our mission is to help operators identify anomalous behaviour earlier, whether the goal is rescue or protection.

“This demo is a vital step toward deploying ZOE for real-world defence scenarios.”

Role of CRADAs in research collaboration

Zelim stated that CRADAs enable non-federal organisations to work directly with US Navy personnel and facilities.

It said this framework allows research partners to collaborate outside of federal acquisition rules.

The company explained that the structure also protects intellectual property and proprietary data.

According to Zelim, this mechanism is being used to facilitate the ZOE Shield trial in Rhode Island.

It added that further information will be released in line with CRADA requirements after the demonstration.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

AI detection technologies such as ZOE Shield have potential applications in safety-critical fields beyond defence.

The system’s ability to function without reliance on radar or GPS may inform the design of fire and rescue monitoring technologies in environments subject to interference.

The early classification and alerting features under test may also have relevance to operators seeking to improve situational awareness in complex emergency scenarios.

Zelim partners with US Navy on AI detection research: Summary

Zelim has signed a CRADA with the US Navy’s NUWC Division Newport to test its AI detection system ZOE Shield.

The agreement enables Zelim’s participation in BlueTIDE 2025, a demonstration event scheduled to conclude on 28 August in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island.

Zelim is one of a small number of international companies selected for the 2025 BlueTIDE Prize Challenge.

The company will trial ZOE Shield to detect small surface vessels operating covertly near subsea infrastructure.

The AI engine used in ZOE Shield is also employed in Zelim’s ZOE man overboard system, which is already deployed in maritime industries.

ZOE Shield provides automated classification and alerting functions and is resistant to GPS denial and radar jamming.

The system is being evaluated by the US Navy for its role in layered maritime surveillance and response.

Sam Mayall, CEO and co-founder of Zelim, said the demonstration is an opportunity to test ZOE Shield in a live defence scenario.

CRADAs enable collaboration with the US Navy while protecting intellectual property and removing federal acquisition requirements.

Further details will be made available after the demonstration in line with the CRADA framework.

Zelim’s ZOE intelligent detection system aims to improve global search and rescue operations

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The challenges facing search and rescue operations at sea

According to Zelim, current search and rescue (SAR) technologies are insufficient for detecting and rescuing people in the water.

A lack of reliable sensor integration and human error has resulted in low success rates, with only 19% of SAR responses involving persons in the water leading to life-saving outcomes.

Former US Coast Guard officer, Commander Matt Mitchell, highlighted these limitations during his tenure, overseeing the Coast Guard’s search and rescue planning systems.

Mitchell explained: “The core challenge we face is that search and rescue authorities simply don’t have the tools to detect and track persons in the water effectively.”

ZOE: A solution to long-standing problems

Mitchell’s involvement with Zelim started after his years of service with the USCG, where he observed the difficulties faced in integrating new sensor technologies.

During his career, he found that only three of the 20 sensor types used by the Coast Guard could be reliably integrated into search plans.

This gap, combined with the unreliability of human observers, spurred his interest in Zelim’s AI-powered detection system, ZOE.

ZOE is designed to continuously scan the water around a vessel using machine learning and computer vision, detecting persons in distress.

Mitchell explained: “ZOE doesn’t get tired, it doesn’t get distracted, and it doesn’t have the inherent variability of a human searcher.”

ZOE’s advantages over traditional SAR technologies

ZOE offers several key improvements over existing SAR technologies, particularly with its ability to detect and track persons in the water with high precision.

Unlike traditional systems, ZOE operates 24/7 and can work in poor visibility and harsh conditions.

It also provides the ability to monitor for persons falling overboard, pinpointing the exact time and location of such events.

“With ZOE, we know the precise time and location of the man overboard event,” Mitchell said.

“That gives us a fighting chance to get there in time and make the rescue.”

US Coast Guard validation and global adoption

Zelim’s ZOE system gained significant validation when the US Coast Guard partnered with the company to test its capabilities.

Mitchell played a key role in facilitating this partnership, collaborating with USCG personnel to refine the system for real-world operations.

Following extensive testing, the US Coast Guard recognised the potential of ZOE, which has now been integrated into their operations.

Mitchell’s goal is to expand the use of ZOE worldwide, leveraging his network of SAR contacts to promote its adoption.

He said: “This technology has the potential to revolutionize the industry, and I’m determined to make that a reality.”

ZOE’s impact on global search and rescue operations

As Zelim’s Director of Search and Rescue for the US and Asia-Pacific, Mitchell’s mission is to ensure that ZOE becomes a standard tool for search and rescue authorities around the world.

The technology’s ability to accurately detect persons in the water and integrate seamlessly into SAR systems could significantly improve rescue efficiency and save lives at sea.

“This is the biggest breakthrough in search and rescue since the advent of search theory back in 1946,” Mitchell asserted.

Zelim’s ZOE intelligent detection system: Summary

Zelim’s ZOE system, led by former US Coast Guard officer Matt Mitchell, aims to address the limitations of current search and rescue technologies.

ZOE uses AI and machine learning to improve detection and tracking of persons in distress in the water.

After successful trials with the US Coast Guard, Mitchell is working to expand ZOE’s use globally.

This system is seen as a potential solution to long-standing SAR challenges, with the goal of improving rescue rates and saving lives.

Zelim expands to North America with US Coast Guard Commander appointment

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Zelim’s North American expansion strategy

Zelim, based in Edinburgh, has appointed Commander Matthew Mitchell, a former United States Coast Guard (USCG) officer, as its Director of Search and Rescue.

Commander Mitchell brings two decades of USCG experience, most recently as head of search and rescue and policy.

He will oversee Zelim LLC, the company’s newly incorporated North American entity.

The expansion includes setting up a base on the USA’s East Coast and building a team to support sales of Zelim’s ZOE Intelligent Detection system, GUARDIAN rescue craft, and SWIFT Man-overboard Recovery Conveyor.

Zelim CTO Doug Lothian said: “Matt has already played a pivotal role in securing a cooperative R&D agreement with the USCG, resulting in ZOE’s development and market introduction.

“We look forward to continuing this relationship and drawing on Matt’s extensive experience and network.”

Commander Mitchell’s vision for maritime safety

Matthew Mitchell, Zelim’s new Director of Search and Rescue, highlighted the importance of the company’s technologies in addressing current limitations in maritime safety.

Mitchell said: “Zelim’s solutions represent a quantum leap forward in man-overboard monitoring and response.

“I am determined to ensure this technology is implemented worldwide.”

He described the ZOE system as the most significant advancement in search and rescue technology since 1946, with the potential to transform detection and response capabilities.

Mitchell added that Zelim’s commitment to improving maritime safety was a major factor in his decision to join the team.

Funding to support growth and innovation

Zelim recently closed a Series A investment round, securing £5.2 million in funding from Amati Global Investors, existing backers, and new private investors.

An additional £1.95 million was obtained through Innovate UK’s Innovation Loan programme to support the ongoing development of the ZOE product line.

Founder and CEO Sam Mayall said: “The successful closure of this round… indicates the confidence the market has in the company and our technologies.”

Zelim’s expansion into the Americas is central to its growth strategy, with a focus on meeting strong demand for its life-saving technology in North America’s maritime markets.

ZOE trials and North American partnerships

ZOE technology is being trialled across several sectors in North America.

A second installation is planned on a Texas-based offshore contractor’s jack-up rig, while the Canadian Civil Aviation Search and Rescue Association and North American defence customers are testing the system.

Zelim has already secured early partnerships and sales in the USA and Canada.

The physical presence of Zelim LLC will allow the company to meet growing customer demand more effectively.

Zelim expands to North America with US Coast Guard Commander appointment: Summary

Edinburgh-based maritime safety company Zelim has appointed former US Coast Guard Commander Matthew Mitchell as Director of Search and Rescue.

Mitchell will oversee Zelim LLC, a newly established entity on the USA’s East Coast, to support the expansion of its technologies, including ZOE Intelligent Detection, GUARDIAN rescue craft, and SWIFT Man-overboard Recovery Conveyor.

The company recently raised £5.2 million in Series A funding, along with £1.95 million from Innovate UK, to develop its product line and support North American operations.

ZOE is undergoing trials with Canadian and US defence customers and will be installed on a Texas offshore contractor’s rig.

Zelim’s CEO, Sam Mayall, described North America as a key market, citing growing demand for life-saving maritime technologies across various sectors.