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Navy: Unmanned Marine Systems

Asked by Ben Obese-JectyConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 8 September 2026UIN 23356

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the answer of 21 July 2026 to question 18230 on Navy: Unmanned Marine Systems, what progress he has made on defining the regulatory and classification framework via discussions with the Defence Maritime Regulator.

Answered by Ministry of Defence

Work continues with the Defence Maritime Regulator to implement and inform the current regulatory and classification framework for uncrewed surface vessels. Engagement between the MOD and other government agencies is ongoing to ensure that MOD arrangements remain aligned with the wider UK regulatory environment.

All RN operated Maritime Autonomous Systems are operated within Defence Maritime Regulations as the Ministry of Defence’s health, safety and environmental framework.

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