Revista Sextante

The Role of Autonomous Maritime Systems in Modern Naval Operations

Lucas Ferreira-Nakamura

Centre for Autonomous Maritime Systems Research, Halifax, Canada

Keywords: autonomous maritime systems, naval operations, unmanned vehicles, human-machine teaming, naval strategy

Abstract

Autonomous maritime systems, including unmanned surface vessels, unmanned underwater vehicles and their supporting sensors and software, are changing how navies sense, protect and project power at sea. This article examines the role of autonomous maritime systems in modern naval operations. Drawing on research in automation, robotics, naval strategy and the ethics of autonomous weapons, it analyses concepts of autonomy, system types, enabling technologies, and applications in surveillance, mine countermeasures, anti-submarine warfare, logistics and force protection. It also considers human-machine teaming, command and control, and legal and strategic issues. The analysis indicates that autonomous systems offer persistence, reduced risk to personnel and scalable capacity, and that their value is greatest when they complement crewed platforms under meaningful human oversight. Limitations include technical constraints, communications and cyber vulnerability, legal uncertainty and limited operational evidence. An illustrative figure summarises expected contribution and maturity across mission areas.