Plymouth was designated as the UK’s National Centre for Marine Autonomy (NCMA) in an announcement by the UK Government in 2025.

The NCMA now has an online presence – a website at http://www.marineautonomy.org.uk, and a dedicated LinkedIn account at https://www.linkedin.com – and will be launched on a global stage at Oceanology International at London’s ExCeL in early March.

Its website highlights the NCMA’s key aims and objectives, and its ambition to be an all-encompassing ecosystem of marine autonomy excellence that comprises the largest naval base in Western Europe, large and small industries, cutting-edge science and development, world-leading facilities, and a widely held commitment to fostering better skills, education and opportunities.

It also highlights the NCMA’s connections to Team Plymouth, the consortium of civic, industry and academic partners delivering defence-driven growth that serves as the catalyst for major economic and social change.

The launch at Oceanology International will see more than 25 leading businesses and organisations, including MUKSW, uniting on a stand at the world’s premier biennial ocean technology exhibition.

Co-ordinated by the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport, the NCMA stand – Q400 for those planning to attend – will feature a high-energy programme of presentations, product launches, and major announcements, alongside compelling exhibits designed for hands-on engagement.

The NCMA’s partners will also play a prominent role at the conference, delivering technical papers, themed panel sessions, a keynote address, a waterside chat, and a series of exciting live demonstrations – many showcasing the latest advances in uncrewed vessel technology.

Read more about the NCMA’s presence at Oceanology International: https://www.oceanologyinternational.com