The United Kingdom is pushing forward in maritime autonomy research with a new joint initiative led by the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) and Plymouth-based Marine AI. According to Australian Defence, the program seeks to equip uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) with the ability to communicate in natural language with manned ships, a step seen as critical for boosting safety and efficiency in mixed fleet operations. Initial trials began last week in the Plymouth and Portsmouth test ranges, highlighting the increasing importance of seamless interaction between crewed and autonomous platforms.
Oliver Thompson, Marine AI’s Technical Director, emphasized that the core aim is to prove that an autonomous system can use natural, mariner-friendly language in real operational conditions. Today’s USVs typically depend on rigid coded protocols or direct human oversight, which slows their response time in complex or rapidly changing situations. The project aims to bridge that gap by developing a system capable of generating and understanding context-based language, enabling USVs to interact with manned and unmanned assets much like a human operator would.
Building on earlier proof-of-concept work with large language models (LLMs), the project is now entering a real-world testing phase with DASA support. Marine AI’s Oceanus12 vessel will take part in the trials, alongside support craft and notable platforms such as the Patrick Blackett and XV Excalibur. The communications generated by the system will be reviewed by experienced captains, whose feedback will be compiled into a formal assessment measuring relevance and reliability.
Marine AI underscores that one of the biggest challenges posed by the growing presence of autonomous platforms is the lack of smooth, contextual communication with conventional shipping. This initiative represents the first real demonstration of natural language interoperability between manned and unmanned vessels. If successful, it could enable safer integration of USVs into congested maritime environments and reinforce the UK’s leadership in naval autonomy.
From an operational standpoint, natural language communication brings immediate benefits. In maritime surveillance missions, for example, an uncrewed vessel capable of speaking naturally can coordinate actions more quickly with manned ships and shore command centers, reducing misunderstandings in time-critical situations. This capability also strengthens confidence among sailors and allies, paving the way for wider adoption of autonomous systems in military operations, search-and-rescue missions, and counter-piracy efforts.
By giving USVs the ability to communicate like human crews, the UK aims to set a new standard for safety, efficiency, and interoperability at sea — consolidating its position as a pioneer in naval innovation.
