Bibliometric analysis of maritime cybersecurity: Research status, focus, and perspectives☆
Navigating Cybersecurity in the Maritime Sector
In today’s increasingly digital world, the maritime industry faces growing threats from cyberattacks. From port operations to ship navigation systems, critical maritime infrastructure relies heavily on interconnected digital systems. With these advancements come vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit, posing serious risks to global trade, environmental safety, and national security. The urgency to understand and mitigate these risks has sparked interest among researchers and policymakers, leading to a significant rise in academic studies on maritime cybersecurity. A bibliometric analysis helps map the evolution of this field by examining key publications, influential authors, and emerging trends.
Current Research Landscape and Growth
Bibliometric findings show that maritime cybersecurity research has grown steadily, particularly since 2015, reflecting heightened global concern about cyber threats to the shipping industry. Most studies are concentrated in countries with major maritime hubs like the United States, China, and the United Kingdom. The research focuses on various issues including cyber-physical system vulnerabilities, risk assessment models, regulatory frameworks, and the human element in cybersecurity. Journals in transportation, information security, and engineering dominate the publication landscape, indicating the interdisciplinary nature of this field.
Key Research Themes and Hotspots
The analysis reveals several prominent themes shaping the discourse. Topics such as shipboard system security, cyber risk management, and digital resilience in smart ports are gaining traction. Furthermore, the role of emerging technologies like blockchain, artificial intelligence, and digital twins in enhancing maritime cybersecurity is becoming a major research focus. Co-authorship networks and keyword co-occurrence analyses also highlight a growing collaboration among academic institutions, industry experts, and governmental bodies, indicating a collective effort to address these pressing challenges.
Future Perspectives and Research Gaps
Despite the growing body of work, there are notable gaps in empirical studies, real-world case analysis, and standardized risk frameworks. More research is needed to understand the practical implications of cybersecurity breaches in maritime operations and to develop industry-specific guidelines. Future studies should also consider socio-technical aspects, such as training crew members and fostering a cybersecurity culture aboard ships. By continuing to track research developments through bibliometric tools, stakeholders can better align academic efforts with industry needs and policy initiatives to create a safer, more resilient maritime environment.
Comments
Post a Comment