Achieving IMO Degree 4 autonomy is reshaping naval certification, with adaptive, goal-based frameworks enabling progression from remotely operated to fully autonomous vessels. Collaboration across UK defence regulators aligns safety and legal principles while addressing emerging architectures, technology risks, and engineering challenges. Early lessons reveal opportunities for scalable certification pathways ahead.

Painting of unknown date of Adelphi Terrace, London - the first headquarters of The Royal Institution of Naval Architects

In the early days, the Institution settled in rooms at Adelphi Terrace, London – first at No. 7, then at No. 9 and finally at No. 5 (the former house of David Garrick). The proximity of Adelphi Terrace to the Royal Society of Arts where John Scott Russell had been Secretary, and where for many years meetings of the Institution were held, made the choice of the Institution’s first headquarters very convenient.

1919-1938 Photograph of unknown date of Adam Street, London

With the reconstruction of Adelphi Terrace after the 1914-1918 war, the Institution moved to the south corner of Adam Street nearby.

DRIFT Energy’s Most Valuable Yacht concept is designed to convert wind energy into green hydrogen while on the move, care of wind-assisted propulsion, a submerged turbine and a unique wind-hunting algorithm

Years of extensive testing are paying off for Slovenia’s EJET, which is soon to expand its all-electric jet tender business with a larger, more powerful model

View the full PDF version of the May/June 2026 edition of The Naval Architect magazine.

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

Biofouling management is increasingly central to maritime decarbonisation, with hull condition directly influencing fuel consumption, emissions and Carbon Intensity Indicator performance. By evaluating antifouling technologies, in-water cleaning practices and environmental impacts, this research highlights the trade-offs between operational efficiency and ecosystem protection, guiding more balanced and sustainable vessel management strategies.