Ocean Autonomy Cluster strengthens its global network of maritime autonomy leaders with the addition of Marine AI, a UK-based company widely regarded as a pioneer in high-trust autonomous vessel technology.

Based in Plymouth, Marine AI develops and delivers full-stack IMO Degree 4 autonomy for both surface and subsurface platforms, supporting crewed, lean-crewed and fully uncrewed operations. Their flagship product suite, GuardianAI™, enables vessels to sense, decide and operate autonomously with a strong focus on safety, accountability and transparency.

GuardianAI is modular, scalable and retrofit-ready, making the technology suitable for both newbuilds and existing fleets. Core modules include autonomous decision-making, multi-sensor fusion, perception systems and collision-avoidance capabilities. Applications range across defense, commercial shipping, offshore energy, aquaculture, hydrography, border security and leisure vessels.

Royal Navy’s XLAUV “XV Excalibur”. Credit: Different View Media

Proven autonomy in demanding missions

Marine AI’s technology is operational across some of the most advanced maritime autonomy programs in the world, including:

• USX-1 Defiant, the DARPA-funded NOMARS vessel, primed by Serco
• XV Excalibur, the Royal Navy’s XLUUV developed by MSubs under Project CETUS
• Oceanus12, deployed at NATO’s REPMUS 2025 exercise and later used by Leeway Marine in Canada

Marine AI’s autonomy roots trace back to the Mayflower Autonomous Ship, which successfully crossed the Atlantic in 2022. Since then, the company has advanced its systems through major contracts in both the UK and US, supported by dedicated waterside testing facilities and a Software Integration Laboratory in Plymouth.

Oceanus12 USV. Credit: Different View Media

Built for trust, safety and certification

Marine AI emphasizes explainable and auditable autonomy. Each decision the system makes can be reviewed and replayed, supporting robust safety cases and future certification processes. The company collaborates with regulatory and assurance leaders including the IMO, the University of York’s Assuring Autonomy Centre, and Lloyd’s Register to help define global standards for autonomous operations.

Cyber-resilience, redundancy and safe-fallback architecture are core components, enabling reliable performance in high-stakes environments.

Guardian AI Mission Planning Interface. Credit: Marine AI

A collaborative mission in Norway

By joining OAC, Marine AI aims to support Norway’s leading position in maritime technology and accelerate the adoption of safe, scalable autonomous solutions.

Tom Rooney, General Manager at Marine AI, says:

Ocean Autonomy Cluster represents a global focal point for those shaping the future of maritime autonomy. We look forward to collaborating on projects, engaging in events, connecting with international markets and contributing to professional forums. Our experience from some of the world's most advanced autonomous vessel programs gives us the confidence and motivation to support and learn from the cluster community.

With a strong commitment to collaboration, safety and innovation, Marine AI represents a valuable addition to OAC’s growing ecosystem.

Welcome to the cluster, Marine AI. We look forward to charting new waters together.