Maritime

Our research to support the safe introduction of autonomous technologies into the maritime domain covers underlying technical research and work from demonstrators in areas such as onshore operators and unmanned marine systems.

This section pulls together all the research taking place in the maritime domain. It also highlights cross-domain work which will be of use to those working in the sector.

Where possible, a lot of the guidance we publish is intentionally developed to be suitable for use in any domain. You will therefore find key pieces of research below that are suitable for those working in any sector.

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Expert guidance

We have created a guidance website that is home to our expert guidance on the safety assurance of autonomous systems, including an interactive version of AMLAS, our methodology for assuring the safety of machine learning components.

Go to the website
(external site)

Body of Knowledge guidance

You can access entries in the Body of Knowledge related to the safety assurance of autonomous maritime systems below, along with useful guidance suitable for all domains. The guidance in the Body of Knowledge is often generalised, enabling you to learn from research undertaken in other domains. You can also access all Body of Knowledge Guidance.

2.2.1.1 Defining sensing requirements
2.2.1.2 Defining understanding requirements
2.2.4.1 Verification of sensing requirements
2.2.4.2 Verification of understanding requirements
3.1.1 Identifying sensing deviations
4.1.2 Understanding the requirements of rules and regulations

Other resources

Remote-controlled and autonomous shipping: UK-based case study

In this report, the authors highlight the regulatory and legal barriers that need to be removed to enable the safe operation of remote-controlled and autonomous ships in UK waters.

Demonstrators

We have three AAIP-funded projects in the maritime domain. These are shown below. We have funded projects in a number of other domains and you can also view all of the AAIP-funded demonstrator projects.

Boundaries of autonomy

Safe unmanned marine systems

Regulation of remote control centres

Latest research papers

Here is the most recent paper based on research in the maritime domain from one of our demonstrator teams. You can also view all of our research papers.