The UK government has announced it has launched an initiative to make the country a pre-eminent global test bed of emerging technology in order to capitalize on the growing economic potential of maritime innovations.
According to a statement from the Department of Transport (DoT), the government has set out its ambitions in its ‘Maritime 2050’ strategy.
The strategy includes plans to develop autonomous vessels and establish the UK as the world’s foremost testing location and a leading hub for international maritime investment.
Furthermore, the strategy will also look to establish an innovation hub at a UK port by 2030 and pioneer the use virtual and augmented reality in seafarer training.
As well as that, the DoT has also announced that this year it will create what calls a Clean Maritime Plan, which will set out how the UK plans to lead the way in environmentally friendly and zero emission shipping.
Transport Secretary Chris Grayling MP hailed the plan and emphasized the importance of shipping to the UK economy.
“Maritime is a vital UK industry, bringing in £14 billion to our economy as well as providing thousands of new and exciting careers for people across the country,” Grayling said.
This strategy is a clear message to the world – we will continue to be a leading maritime nation for the next 30 years and beyond.
“We will be at the forefront of emerging technology and seafarer training and will capitalize on selling this expertise to companies across the world.”
Source:porttechnology
