LR inks first deepsea autonomous MOU

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the ‘Development of Ocean-going Autonomous Navigation System on a Marine Asset’ project forms the foundation of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore-funded ‘World’s Largest Ocean-Going Autonomous Vessel Programme’, also announced during the week’s events.

Andy McKeran, LR commercial director marine & offshore, said the project “pushes the boundaries of autonomous technology and moves the industry towards deployment of autonomous navigation systems onboard vessels for enhanced performance and critically, safety”.

He said that vessel testing to progress on issues including navigational safety, supply chain efficiency and operational costs of marine assets is essential to the successful and safe adoption of remote access and control technologies.

Speaking about autonomous systems, McKeran added: “Working with STEE, who have already developed and proven this capability and are now looking to work to scale in the commercial marine market, is what sets this project apart; STEE provide world-class technical expertise, technology and advanced learnings on autonomous systems in the marine environment.”

LR will provide input on assurance, certification and regulation for the application of autonomy in the maritime environment as well as approval of systems where required.