Royal Navy tests autonomous boat in UK waters

The Royal Navy successfully trialled a crewless boat navigating the busy Solent waters, remotely controlled from the experimental ship XV Patrick Blackett.

According to an update from the Royal Navy, the trials showcased the Pacific 24 rigid-inflatable craft’s potential to operate autonomously and via remote control, simulating various operational scenarios.

The week-long trials tested the vessel, known as the APAC (Autonomous PACific), in challenging conditions, including rough seas and snow, to push its systems and software to their limits. Previously tested in Portugal during NATO’s Exercise Repmus, this marked the APAC’s inaugural trials in UK waters.

The trials involved both pre-programmed autonomous manoeuvres and remote piloting by a Royal Marine aboard the XV Patrick Blackett. The APAC successfully navigated the congested waters of Portsmouth Harbour, avoiding ferries, other naval vessels, and private boats.

The APAC is a variant of the Pacific 24, used in rescues, drug interceptions, and ship-to-shore transfers. By adapting the craft for autonomous use, the Royal Navy aims to broaden its operational applications, including intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and force protection.

Equipped with cameras and sensors, the APAC streamed live data back to control units on the XV Patrick Blackett. The system can also be outfitted with additional sensors or weaponry, allowing the vessel to perform high-risk missions without endangering crew members.

“This is the first time a fully autonomous and crewless boat has been operated in UK waters,” said Commander Michael Hutchinson, commanding officer of XV Patrick Blackett.

“Integrating crewed and uncrewed systems is a huge step forward for the Royal Navy. These trials form the backbone for further integration of autonomous technology in future operations.”

Currently, the APAC’s range is limited to short distances from its control unit aboard the XV Patrick Blackett. However, the use of drones to extend the control range is being explored. The NavyX team, the Royal Navy’s autonomous technology specialists, plans to build on these trials with further tests next year.

Commander Hutchinson added, “Running the APAC in and out of Portsmouth Harbour is something we want to do more often, making it the norm. This vessel demonstrates how we can adapt existing assets for autonomous use, expanding their capabilities and applications.”