The new K-Line integrated system, officially launched by Kongsberg Maritime at Nor-Shipping earlier this year is demonstrating an advanced approach to integration of navigation and automation sub-systems. K-Line consists of separate sub-systems for Navigation (K-Bridge), Automation (K-Chief), Dynamic Positioning & Joystick (K-Pos), Prop and Thruster Control (K-Thrust), Tank Gauging (K-Gauge) and Safety (K-Safe). Each sub-system can be installed as a standalone or as a part of a ship-wide network based vessel management system.

K-Line has been created using the technology and experience from Kongsberg Maritime's proven shipboard electronic systems such as AutoChief and DataChief, radar based gauging and its range of highly advanced Dynamic Positioning and Thrusters Control systems. It offers an integrated system option for both newbuildings and retrofit projects and does not replace the existing systems. K-line has been designed to provide fully redundant operation of a ship's major operating systems. If one area suffers downtime then the redundant elements will provide operation as normal. The same graphical user interface (GUI) throughout means that costs can be saved in operator training. Kongsberg Maritime also anticipates that the user friendliness of the operating system will reduce human error improving ship safety.