The Royal Navy has taken a significant step forward in its adoption of cutting-edge technology, successfully trialling an autonomous and remotely piloted Pacific 24 rigid-inflatable boat (RIB) off the coast of Portsmouth.
This small but mighty craft, known for its versatility in operations such as rescues, intercepting drug runners, and ferrying sailors from ship to shore, was tested over a week-long period in challenging conditions that included rough seas and even snow.
A Milestone in British Waters
The trials, conducted aboard the Navy’s experimental ship XV Patrick Blackett, marked the first time the uncrewed vessel has been tested in UK waters. Previously trialled abroad, the boat was put through its paces navigating the bustling Portsmouth Harbour—dodging ferries, private boats, and other Royal Navy ships in the process.
The tests explored two cutting-edge capabilities:
- Autonomous Operation: The vessel was pre-programmed to execute manoeuvres and follow specific routes without human intervention, using advanced software to respond to its environment.
- Remote Control: A Royal Marine aboard XV Patrick Blackett controlled the boat using a console, demonstrating its potential for precise, real-time operational use.
Pushing the Limits
The week-long exercise saw the craft pushed to its limits, with the Royal Navy ensuring the APAC (Autonomous PACific) could withstand the harsh realities of maritime operations. From icy waters to rough seas, the vessel proved it could perform in a range of scenarios, providing reassurance that the technology is robust and reliable.
A project lead for the trials, said:
“This marks a significant milestone for the Royal Navy’s capabilities in unmanned technology. Testing the APAC in home waters and busy ports like Portsmouth demonstrates its potential for real-world operations in dynamic and challenging environments.”
A Glimpse into the Future
The Pacific 24 RIB is a mainstay of Royal Navy operations, and the success of these trials signals the Navy’s ambition to integrate autonomous technology into its fleet. By enabling the vessel to perform tasks without direct human involvement, the technology could free up personnel for other critical operations while maintaining safety and efficiency at sea.
The Navy has long been at the forefront of innovation, and these trials represent another leap forward in modernising its fleet. As uncrewed systems become increasingly central to defence strategies worldwide, the Royal Navy’s success in Portsmouth may pave the way for greater adoption of autonomous capabilities.
Portsmouth: A Historic Backdrop
Conducting the trials in Portsmouth—one of the busiest and most historic naval harbours in the world—underscored the technology’s potential for use in complex, high-traffic maritime environments. Navigating around a bustling mix of vessels without incident highlighted the precision and reliability of the system.
Looking Ahead
With successful trials now under its belt, the Royal Navy is expected to continue refining and expanding the use of autonomous technology. The APAC’s potential applications, from surveillance to humanitarian missions, could transform the way the Navy operates, offering a glimpse into a future where advanced technology complements traditional seafaring expertise.
As the Navy presses ahead with innovation, one thing is clear: Britain’s maritime forces remain committed to staying ahead in an increasingly technological age.
Photos Licence: MOD Crown Copyright News / Editorial Licence.
