KONGSBERG secures contract with Pilbara Ports in Australia

KONGSBERG will deliver a complete Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) system including radar, electro-optical sensors, Automatic Identification System (AIS) technology and VHF communications.

Enhancing safety and efficiency
Under the 10-year system-as-a-service agreement, KONGSBERG will also provide comprehensive maintenance and support for both the new Port of Port Hedland system and the existing VTS at the Port of Dampier.

“We are proud to have been selected once again by Pilbara Ports, extending our delivery of a world-class VTS system and 24/7 services to the Port of Port Hedland, building on the VTS system and managed service already being delivered to the Port of Dampier. We look forward to supporting safe and efficient port operations while further strengthening our partnership with Pilbara Ports,” says Lene Vesterlund, CEO of Kongsberg Norcontrol, KONGSBERG.

Most important export port
Pilbara Ports Chief Executive Officer Samuel McSkimming says Port Hedland’s high level of vessel activity created a need for a proven, robust VTS that can accurately track vessel movements across the service area and support efficient turnaround times.

“The system will give port operators advanced tools to monitor vessel movements across our area of responsibility, improving situational awareness and supporting safe and efficient operations. We were also seeking a long-term technology partner, and we have found that in KONGSBERG,” says McSkimming.

In the 2025–26 financial year, Pilbara Ports handled a record 804.1 million tonnes of imports and exports through the ports of Ashburton, Dampier, Port Hedland and Varanus Island.

Pilbara Ports comprises the ports of Ashburton, Dampier, Port Hedland and Varanus Island. It is responsible for managing the ports, including vessel traffic services, ship scheduling, berthing allocations for multi-user facilities and port communications.

The contract value has not been disclosed.