{"id":25136,"date":"2025-05-09T15:50:17","date_gmt":"2025-05-09T07:50:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.robustel.com\/?p=25136"},"modified":"2025-06-03T11:59:28","modified_gmt":"2025-06-03T03:59:28","slug":"maritime-vdr-cybersecurity-iec61162-460","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.robustel.com\/au\/marine\/maritime-vdr-cybersecurity-iec61162-460\/","title":{"rendered":"Securing Maritime\u2019s Black Box: How Robustel\u2019s MG460 Gateway Protects Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) Systems"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n\t\t\t\t\"MG460-VDR-Header\"\n

\n\t\t\tMaritime VDR Cybersecurity IEC 61162-460: Why It Matters for Modern Vessel Operations\t<\/h2>\n\t

Background:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Voyage Data Recorders (VDRs) are the maritime equivalent of an aircraft’s black box, capturing critical data such as navigation logs, voice communications, and sensor inputs. Required under SOLAS Chapter V, Regulation 20<\/b>, VDR systems play a vital role in incident investigations, operational diagnostics, and safety audits.<\/p>\n

Learn more via the IMO’s official guidance on Voyage Data Recorders (VDRs)<\/a>.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As vessels become more digitally connected, however, the cybersecurity risks facing VDR systems<\/b> are escalating. Unsecured interfaces and network access points can expose these systems to data breaches, tampering, or unauthorized remote access – all of which compromise the integrity of recorded voyage data.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Challenge: Securing VDR Systems in a Connected Maritime Environment<\/b><\/p>\n

Modern VDRs often interface with broader vessel IT networks or require remote diagnostics. While essential for efficiency, these connections introduce new attack surfaces. Without proper safeguards aligned to IEC 61162-460<\/b> and IACS UR E26 and E27<\/b>, even routine integration or remote support can put critical voyage data at risk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\"\"\n\t

Introducing the MG460 Gateway – A IEC61162-460 Compliant Maritime Solution<\/strong><\/h2>\n\t

Robustel’s MG460 Gateway (also available as a wireless model) is a purpose-built IEC 61162-460 cybersecurity gateway for maritime Operational Technology (OT). Designed to protect onboard equipment like VDRs from cyber threats, it offers marine-certified, DNV-approved network protection that aligns with IEC 60945 environmental standards and 460 network compliance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

How does the MG460 Gateway Secure VDR Systems?<\/strong><\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Maritime-Grade Firewall with Deep Packet Inspection<\/strong>
    \nThe MG460 goes beyond basic firewalls-it understands maritime-specific protocols (NMEA, IEC 61162) and inspects them in real time.<\/li>\n
  2. Secure Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) for Data Access<\/strong>
    \nA secure DMZ zone acts as a controlled buffer between external access points and the VDR system-allowing safe file transfers.<\/li>\n
  3. Isolated Network Segmentation<\/strong>
    \nWith 5 independent Gigabit Ethernet ports, each with its own firewall configuration, the MG460 Gateway allows complete VDR network isolation.<\/li>\n
  4. Legacy Compatibility with Serial Interfaces<\/strong>
    \nIncludes dual configurable serial ports (RS232\/RS422\/RS485) to secure legacy equipment without expensive retrofits.<\/li>\n
  5. Full Logging and Audit Trail<\/strong>
    \nAll access attempts and traffic patterns are logged locally with microSD storage, ensuring full auditability.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\t

    Solution Architecture
    \n<\/strong><\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\"Diagram\n\t

    Real-World Scenario: Securing Both Legacy and New VDR Installations<\/strong><\/h2>\n\t

    Whether securing legacy Simplified VDRs (S-VDRs) or modern full-featured VDR systems, the MG460 Gateway provides a scalable, standards-compliant solution. Older vessels built before July 2002 may operate S-VDRs that lack integrated cybersecurity features, while newer vessels still require a secure gateway to protect sensitive operational data and enable safe remote access.<\/p>\n

    By deploying the MG460 Gateway between the VDR and any network interface, vessel operators can:<\/strong><\/p>\n