The UK government has announced it ambitions for the country to remain a world-leader in the maritime industry for the next 30 years.
The government said its newly announced strategy will set the UK as a pre-eminent global test-bed of emerging technology, enabling the country to capitalise on the economic potential of maritime innovations.
The Maritime 2050 strategy outlines a range of short, medium and long-term proposals, including developing technology, people, and infrastructure.
These include establishing an innovation hub at a UK port by 2030, looking at ways to clean up emissions from the industry, and building on the training already offered to seafarers.
Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said the plan with put the UK at the forefront of emerging technology.
“This strategy is a clear message to the world – we will continue to be a leading maritime nation for the next 30 years and beyond,” he said.
“Maritime is a vital UK industry, bringing in £14 billion to our economy as well as providing thousands of new and exciting careers for people across the country.”
New legislation will introduce a domestic framework for autonomous vessels to enhance testing in UK waters.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency is looking at what is needed to ensure the safety of these and other ships. The UK will also pioneer the use of virtual and augmented reality in seafarer training as the government looks to establish a Maritime Skills Commission.
The government has said that by 2030 it will have developed a Maritime Innovation Hub, supporting new technologies and boosting regional productivity with new jobs.
Later this year, it has announced a Clean Maritime Plan which will set out ways the UK will lead the way in green standards to reach zero emission shipping as quickly as possible.