New Centre will develop unmanned autonomous boats and submarines
Minister for Portsmouth Matthew Hancock will today officially open a new cutting edge centre for research into unmanned autonomous boats, submarines and other vessels – a market that is estimated to be worth £9 billion each year over the next eight years.
The Centre for Maritime Intelligence Systems (CMIS) was announced by the Prime Minister in July and is already up and running. It brings together academics, scientists, engineers and naval specialists at Portsdown Technology Park and has received support worth £4 million from Government, Industry and the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership.
Tapping into the unique expertise in Portsmouth, the centre is a testbed for new systems and technology that can be sold to defence and civilian customers around the world.
Minister for Portsmouth Matthew Hancock said:
“This centre puts Portsmouth at the forefront of a growing £9 billion a year market. Whether it’s for environmental monitoring, gas exploration or clearing underwater mines, there is massive potential for unmanned vessels.
“Technology developed here can play a big role in Portsmouth’s future. The city has the talent and expertise to lead the world in this area.
“We chose Portsmouth as the best location for this centre in July and thanks to hard work from government, industry and local leaders we have got it off the ground in double quick time.”
Victor Chavez, chief executive of Thales UK and Intelligent Systems sponsor within the Defence Growth Partnership said:
“Maritime Intelligent Systems have the potential to deliver a paradigm shift in operational capability for our global customers. The CMIS represents a significant and collaborative step towards shaping new markets, positioning the UK to lead on a global scale.”
