Ocean Autonomy Cluster is pleased to welcome a new international member: the Centre of Excellence in Maritime Robotics and Technologies for a Sustainable Blue Economy (CoE MARBLE). Based in Croatia and supported by Horizon Europe’s Teaming for Excellence programme, MARBLE is a €30 million initiative focused on advancing maritime autonomy and sustainable innovation in the blue economy.

Led by the University of Zagreb’s Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (UNIZG-FER), and in partnership with NTNU (Norway) and CNR (Italy), MARBLE brings together top researchers, engineers, and policy actors to develop cutting-edge solutions in autonomous marine systems. The centre focuses on high-level autonomy, multi-robot collaboration, AI-driven resilience, and human-machine teaming.

“We are thrilled to join the Ocean Autonomy Cluster,” says Nikola Mišković, Director of CoE MARBLE. “This is a great opportunity to collaborate with world leaders in maritime autonomy and strengthen ties between Croatia and Norway.”

Concept of the Mobile laboratory

Real-world testing and strong infrastructure

MARBLE’s facilities include a headquarters in Zagreb and pilot sites in Rijeka and Šibenik, including a smart mussel farm and a test range for autonomous vessels. With mobile labs, advanced simulation tools, and a dedicated testing pool, MARBLE offers ideal conditions for validating next-generation technology.

Concept of Pilot site 1: Smart Mussel Farm

Supporting talent and strengthening collaboration

In addition to research, MARBLE invests in training through PhD programmes, internships, and leadership development. The centre also brings experience from major EU projects like BLUEMED and HEKTOR.

“By joining the Cluster, we hope to accelerate innovation, contribute to responsible standards for autonomy, and shape the future of sustainable ocean technology,” says Mišković.

With MARBLE as a member, the Ocean Autonomy Cluster further strengthens its position as Europe’s leading network for advancing autonomous maritime systems.