£250 million deal to deploy autonomous marine tech from Plymouth

The University of Plymouth's USV Cetus is one of a number of vessels developed by the University that are unlocking innovation in dual-use capabilities, marine science, and critical national infrastructure support.

The University of Plymouth’s expertise in advanced marine technologies will be critical to a major investment programme set to transform Plymouth and its economy.

The UK Government has announced the city is to receive a share of £250 million through its UK Defence Growth Deals
scheme.

Building on the city’s recent designation as the National Centre for Marine Autonomy, the Plymouth Defence Growth Deal will be used to forge long-term partnerships between government, business and research institutions in the city, and to harness local expertise and resources in support of the UK Armed Forces.

A significant part of that will see the university driving innovation through a new Advanced Marine Technology Hub, uniting and expanding the city’s expertise in dual-use capabilities, marine
science, and critical national infrastructure support.

Its aim will be to reaffirm Plymouth’s place as a centre of excellence and rapidly grow the UK’s marine autonomy capability, supply chain expertise, and export capabilities across a range of sectors.

That will enhance the university’s expertise in autonomous marine systems, maritime cyber security, offshore renewable energy and environmental intelligence, as well as reaffirming its long-standing partnerships with – and commitment to – the city’s defence and security sectors.

The
Plymouth Defence Growth Deal will also strengthen local skills initiatives with a particular focus on STEM outreach, and in fields including electrical engineering, renewable energy systems, nuclear operations, and autonomy.

Professor Richard Davies, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Plymouth, said: “This investment will create unprecedented opportunities for the University and everyone living and working in our city.

“It shows those in charge of our nation’s defence have confidence that Plymouth, thanks to our expertise and facilities, our
location and heritage, is perfectly placed to tackle the complex threats the UK is currently facing, and to inspire and train those who will be critical to its future security.

“Our university is already home to expertise and facilities that have for many years been recognised at a regional, national and international level.

“The creation of the Advanced Marine Technology Hub places us even closer to the heart of the UK’s national resilience, and we – and our partners – are ready to seize all the opportunities that brings.”