Last week saw significant advances in maritime technology with partnerships for autonomous vessel trials, NATO selection of AI platforms, and advancements in uncrewed systems. Some key developments include HOS-Saronic's collaboration on offshore autonomy pilots; StrateSea DIANA program entry; and Textron AUKUS USV delivery--signifying rapid innovation towards safer and more efficient operations.
In December 2025, the US Navy awarded several major contracts for autonomous surface vehicles such as Saronic's $392 million Corsair production deal and Textron Systems' TSUNAMI sale to NIWC PAC. Partnerships like HavocAI-SAIC and HII's ROMULUS milestone mark rapid scaling up of uncrewed maritime capabilities for defense missions.
In the past month, autonomous surface vessel markets have seen record transatlantic crossings, an important U.S. Navy contract award, and large private investments into new production capacity - demonstrating how uncrewed surface platforms are warding off the experimental seas, into operational and commercial use too.
Recent developments in maritime technology include a new global centre of innovation for low carbon and intelligent ships, major funding and investment into autonomous and digital solutions, venture capital for maritime tech start-ups, awards for clean propulsion technologies and smart, connected ports, and conferences dedicated to these topics, all demonstrating rapid, commercially-driven innovation across the value chain.