Autonomous ships – What does the future hold?

Autonomous and unmanned vessels are already in use in the defence industry for mine clearance and targets; in the oil and gas industry for subsea positioning, surveying and environmental monitoring; and in oceanographic data collection. While these vessels are still on a small scale, the technology can be easily scaled up to SOLAS size. The paper will look at the issues involved with increasing autonomy in shipping with an introduction to the concept; an overview of current developments; the technology present and future; safety and assurance of vessels; what changes mean for shipowners; legal and insurance implications; and the human element – monitoring and navigating autonomous ships