National Centre for Coastal Autonomy unlocks radical new capabilities for coastal science
ñ is now home to the UKñޙs first autonomous fully integrated coastal observing and monitoring network
HRH The Princess Royal launches the new National Centre for Coastal Autonomy
Mr Alan Williams
Media and Communications Manager
Corporate Communications (Marketing and Communications)
The potential for autonomous technology to advance understanding of our constantly evolving ocean and coastlines has taken a major step forward with the launch of the National Centre for Coastal Autonomy.
The UKñޙs first autonomous fully integrated coastal observing and monitoring network employs the latest autonomous technologies to drive towards a net zero oceanographic capability, delivering world-leading and cutting edge science.
A fleet of state-of-the-art surface autonomous vessels, sub-surface coastal platforms and sophisticated scientific buoys are integrated on a unique high-speed award-winning marine communications network.
The high resolution data it produces will support policy makers and other organisations to enable good stewardship and an enhanced understanding of the coastal environment.
It will also deliver a platform to train and develop the next generation of scientists and technologists in partnership with industry and the public sector.
The National Centre for Coastal Autonomy has been founded by the partners in Marine Research ñ ñޓ the Marine Biological Association, ñ Marine Laboratory and the ñ.
It was officially launched by HRH The Princess Royal, who met representatives from Marine Research ñ as well as delegates working in the cityñޙs autonomous marine sector, and funders and policymakers from the wider UK.
ñ is well-established as an international centre of excellence in the development and application of coastal marine autonomy.
ñޜIf we are to bring about lasting and positive change for the environment, we need to employ the latest technological capabilities. Delivering policy relevant data that can identify challenges and inform solutions at a local and global scale is essential. By equipping our students with this knowledge, we are not only enabling a technological revolution but empowering the future workforce to apply it to societal and economic benefit.ñޝ
Professor Icarus Allen, Chief Executive of ñ Marine Laboratory, said:
ñޜThe centre builds upon ññޙs incredible legacy as a world-leading hub for marine science and technology and creates a unique capability in coastal science and net zero oceanography for the UK. Itñޙs a pioneering initiative to expand the horizons of scientific endeavour using the very latest in technology and innovation. Weñޙre incredibly proud to be a part of it, as we work towards a sustainable ocean future.ñޝ
Professor Willie Wilson, Director of the Marine Biological Association, said:
ñޜWe plan to work with our ñ partners at the new Centre to develop autonomous biodiversity monitoring of the global ocean using cutting edge biomolecular tools. Ultimately it will allow us to develop biodiversity forecasting as a tool to help manage the impacts of climate change. It is a perfect example of the synergy of the Marine Research ñ partnership that will allow us to develop advanced solutions for ocean management.ñޝ
Between them, the partners in Marine Research ñ already have world-leading capabilities in remote operations, maritime cyber security, assured autonomy, AI and machine learning, advanced navigation as well as the understanding, and conservation, of the marine environment.
This new initiative will harness that capability to produce monitoring data that can be used across sectors including, offshore renewable energy, aquaculture, defence and address key scientific questions relating to the climate and biodiversity nexus on a global scale.
It will build on the success of innovative and ongoing programmes such as the Western Channel Observatory and Smart Sound ñ.
It will also support the UK Governmentñޙs net-zero and clean maritime agendas, and expand the nationñޙs capability to deliver autonomous marine platforms, technology, and research in a safe and sustainable manner.
Karl Tucker, Chair of the Heart of the South West LEP, said:
ñޜThe launch of the National Centre for Coastal Autonomy is a fantastic next step in ññޙs leading role in the countryñޙs marine innovation and technologies. We are excited to see how the advanced connectivity of the Smart Sound Connect, funded through our Growth Deal funding, will support the Centre's world-leading activities.ñޝ
Ben Murray, Chief Executive of Maritime UK, added:
ñޜThe National Centre for Coastal Autonomy is a fantastic example of how cutting-edge marine technology and innovation can support essential scientific research. In harnessing and further developing the use of autonomous vessels, the Centre will provide a hugely valuable resource for the UK, supporting growth in the associated technology sector and reinforcing the UKñޙs credentials as a leader in this field as we work toward our Maritime 2050 ambitions."
Watch a short video about the new National Centre for Coastal Autonomy
The ñ, the and have joined forces to launch Marine Research ñ.
Collectively hosting the largest number of marine scientists in any UK city ñޓ and the greatest number of undergraduate and postgraduate marine students anywhere in the country ñޓ the partnership aims to cement the city's place as the UK's go-to location for marine and ocean science.
Marine Research ñ will encourage joint investment in research appointments and support the sharing of capabilities, equipment and facilities. It will also ensure ñ is even better-placed to attract further funding for initiatives that can advance knowledge and understanding of the oceans.
Marine news from the ñ
- University academic features in the 2026 ENDS Power List 5 June 2026
- University appoints senior academic to drive marine autonomy innovation and collaboration 27 May 2026
- Food and drink related litter dominates global plastic pollution 20 May 2026
- Study provides detailed assessment of shifts in toxin-producing phytoplankton abundance 14 May 2026
- Universities strengthen commitment to deeper cooperation for the South West 30 April 2026
- Scientists explore whether plastic particles could be linked to significant rises in liver disease 23 April 2026
