Facing growing fleet-capacity challenges, the U.S. Navy is exploring a bimodal force structure that combines smaller warships with autonomous capabilities. The Lightly Manned Automated Combat Corvette offers a compelling concept, but success depends on integrating technology, doctrine and long service-life considerations across a complex system-of-systems architecture for future maritime operations.

Regulating maritime autonomy demands governance that can keep pace with technological change. Examining emerging frameworks for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships, this paper highlights the need for collaboration between industry and regulators. The proposed MARS Centre offers a novel model to bridge expertise gaps, support adaptive regulation and enable innovation safely.

Remote piloting technologies are reshaping maritime navigation, enabling pilots to monitor vessels from shore-based control centres. By eliminating physical pilot transfers, the approach enhances safety, reduces operational costs, cuts fuel consumption and emissions, and improves efficiency. The initiative highlights how digital innovation can deliver safer, smarter and more sustainable shipping

An Yun is a chemical/oil tanker that has been designed and constructed by CSBC and features energy-saving adaptations to enhance its performance.

Sealartec's radical ALR-S technology can convert a conventional ship's stern ramp to a fully autonomous recovery system for unmanned surface vessels

The UK-based ROC + DOCK project has brought together remote-controlled operations, a dual-function simulator and a ‘hands-off’ docking station, to encourage force multiplication of uncrewed vessels in ports and harbours

The latest addition to Bernhard Schulte Offshore’s CSOV fleet, Windea Clausius, combines a methanol-ready hybrid propulsion plant with Ulstein’s Twin X-STERN design for energy efficiency and ease of operations

We've seen wingsails applied to bulkers and tankers - but aboard a smaller patrol boat? The latest design from MAURIC, set for launch in 2027, could open up an entirely new market for wind-assisted propulsion systems

The autonomy software developer Marine AI has launched a project in the hope of granting uncrewed vessels the ability to “communicate naturally” with other ships, in the manner of a human operator. The project has received the backing of the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), a branch of the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) created to fund the development of innovate tech solutions for the British Armed Forces.

Propulsion-improving devices are emerging as a practical route to extending vessel CII compliance and reducing fuel consumption. Proven technologies such as ducts, pre-swirl fins and rudder enhancements can deliver measurable efficiency gains, but real-world performance depends on data quality, weather, hull condition and operational practices, highlighting the importance of effective implementation.

Carbon Intensity Indicator performance can vary dramatically between vessels, exposing weaknesses in how operational efficiency is measured. This analysis highlights the influence of ship size, voyage profile, biofuel adoption and real-time monitoring, while revealing formula anomalies that may reward inefficiency and pointing toward more robust, future-ready emissions metrics.

The Carbon Intensity Indicator review has become critical as industry data reveals anomalies that could undermine efficient shipping. Through collaborative evidence gathering and proposed reforms, stakeholders are working toward a fairer rating framework. The outcome may influence vessel viability, modal choice and the pace of maritime decarbonisation efforts globally ahead.