Thales, a global technology leader has selected Centrik to manage the operational development of its Maritime Autonomous Systems (MAS) programme at its UK Maritime Autonomy Centre, Turnchapel Wharf in Plymouth.

The JOSCAR-accredited management solution will be used to measure and monitor all elements of its operations, including safety reporting, risk management, training and equipment maintenance.  It will enable auditing and demonstrate regulatory compliance to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) in real-time and compliance with future codes of conduct and regulations regarding the use of maritime autonomous systems.

Thales selected Centrik for its unique pedigree in manned and unmanned air and maritime operations.  Centrik’s development team have drawn on that expertise to rapidly develop a system configured to Thales’ complex requirements.

John Hunnibell, Maritime Autonomous Systems Operations Manager at Thales, says: “We are pushing the boundaries of maritime autonomy but safety is paramount in everything that we do. We needed a system that was reliable and proven and Centrik was uniquely positioned to deliver it and keep apace with our ambitious programme.

“We are at the cutting edge of MAS; Centrik’s heritage, plus its adaptability, means we have a system that exceeds the demands of our auditors and regulators, including the MCA from day one.”

Originally designed for the highly-regulated civil aviation sector, Centrik provides a powerful yet intuitive management package, with real-time monitoring across all business divisions.

Former Royal Navy Commander David Hunkin OBE, Head of Maritime at Centrik, says: “Maritime autonomy is an exciting new industry sector and we bring a wealth of expertise to its management. Centrik is used extensively in both the maritime and unmanned aviation markets and I am familiar with many of its challenges having been involved in the Navy’s early work in autonomy. We very much look forward to working with Thales as they lead the future of MAS.”