Ashdod Port Company has invested $650,000 in Azimut.ai, an Israeli startup that completed a successful proof-of-concept (POC) as part of the Port’s Maritime Technology Hub (Blue Ocean CVC).
The pilot demonstrated the capabilities of Azimut.ai’s AI-powered system, Albatross, and how it can transform maritime situational awareness. Azimut.ai’s technology enables real-time detection, classification, and tracking of vessels even when traditional systems such as radar or AIS are inactive.
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Azimut.ai’s AI-powered system, Albatross, enables real-time detection, classification, and tracking of vessels
(Photo: Courtesy)
The Port’s Maritime Technology Hub is designed to test advanced maritime technologies in real operational conditions, and what began as a pilot has now become an operational tool with measurable value.
The investment will allow Azimut.ai to expand its activities in Israel and internationally. For Ashdod Port, the investment will provide practical tools that enhance safety, efficiency and Israel’s leadership in the field of smart ports.
Following the successful pilot, the Albatross system is now being deployed at multiple sites, including ports, offshore infrastructure facilities, and environmental and security organizations.
3 View gallery
Azimut.ai’s AI-powered system, Albatross, enables real-time detection, classification, and tracking of vessels
(Photo: Courtesy)
“Our work with Azimut.ai illustrates how we turn pilots into progress," Shaul Schneider, chairman of Ashdod Port, said. "This is innovation that doesn’t remain in the lab but becomes part of how the port operates, sees and leads. The Port’s innovation arm and its investments in technology companies are a central part of our long-term strategy to prepare for future challenges. This step strengthens our competitiveness locally and globally, increases efficiency, and contributes to both the Israeli economy and global trade.”
Nissan Levy, CEO of Ashdod Port, added: “This investment reflects our commitment to applied innovation. Ashdod Port is focused on technologies that demonstrate true operational value. During the pilot, Azimut.ai showed that even when communication systems or signals fail, their system continues to deliver a full real-time operational picture. This is a genuine breakthrough for the maritime world.”
Meanwhile, Roi Avrahami, Chief Innovation Officer of Ashdod Port, said that “Azimut.ai’s technology adds a new dimension to understanding the maritime domain. Its ability to create a live visual layer over the sea enables faster and more accurate decision-making. This capability can redefine how ports around the world operate and communicate.”
“Working with Ashdod Port gave us a shared operational language that resonates with other organizations as well," according to Matan Saat, CEO of Azimut.ai. "Following the pilot, we launched new projects across Israel from offshore gas platforms and the Israel Nature and Parks Authority to defense entities. Everyone recognizes that the ability to ‘see’ the sea through an intelligent layer fundamentally changes decision-making.”
The Maritime Technology Hub (Blue Ocean CVC) at Ashdod Port operates under a model that supports around 100 startups annually across fields including operations, logistics, cyber and safety. Many of these companies are already active within Ashdod Port and its global Innovation Embassies located in Barcelona, New Jersey and additional sites worldwide.