HMS Albion - September 14, 2021 - 14:00-17:00

Traditionally the Defence industry has been a testbed for new technologies and for driving advances in the use of connected systems and digital technology. The COVID19 pandemic has accelerated the appetite and acceptance of new technologies and governments are looking to build back better using autonomy and digital systems as a backbone for industry.

The uptake of autonomous systems presents a significant opportunity for the maritime and defence sector, particularly in the connection of technology providers, with traditional operators to solve new and current challenges. What does the decade ahead herald for autonomy, how does this move beyond pilots and prototypes and what regulatory and commercial changes are needed to facilitate this transition?

Panel

• James Fanshawe - Chair/Moderator, Chair of the MASRWG
• Peter Sparkes - CEO UKHO, Future Military Data Gathering
• Peter Collinson - Independent Consultant
• Andy McKeran - Maritime Performance Services Director, Lloyds Register
• Britt Pickering - Claims & Legal Director, Shipowners P&I
• Ruth Taylor - Marine Technical Specialist, MCA

We are delighted that Minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan will also be joining us to give the opening remarks.  

Proposed talking points for the panel

1. The term ‘autonomous’ has been bandied around for the past decade. It can mean different things to different people. How do you see it?
2. What does autonomy encompass in 2021 and what part does it play in achieving Zero emissions. What does the pathway to 2030 look like?
3. Who is leading the way and what lessons can be shared in the different maritime sectors and other modes of transport?
4. How have feelings and culture around autonomy changed? What still needs to be done?
5. Where are the opportunities?
6. Are the barriers/hurdles real or perceived?
7. How should one invest for this transition? What is achievable, what remains aspirational?
8. Where does the UK position itself (tech, services, regulation, assurance)?

For more information on this invitation-only event, please email Emma (emma.johnson(at)maritimeindustries.org)