The marine industry is evolving rapidly, powered by a blend of advanced technologies, interdisciplinary collaboration and a commitment to sustainability. In its fifth volume, The Future of Ocean Technology by Ocean News & Technology (ON&T) showcases the latest breakthroughs and the visionary efforts driving the sector forward. With topics ranging from autonomous vehicles to energy transition, this edition is a testament to the progress made and the exciting challenges that lie ahead.
Autonomy is at the forefront of marine technology, transforming operations across the sector. ROV positioning technologies by Deep Trekker and underwater mapping tools by Blueprint Subsea are improving the precision and efficiency of subsea navigation. At the same time, intervention-class vehicles by General Oceans and automated deployment systems from Okeanus showcase how uncrewed systems are now equipped for complex, mission-critical tasks.
Ed Freeman, in his editorial for this volume, observes that “investment continues to fund the accelerated trial and adoption of applied autonomy,” which is evident in advances like EvoLogics’ diver navigation systems and SeaRobotics’ USV technologies. These innovations are enabling longer, more complex missions while reducing the need for topside support.
The marine industry is integral to addressing the global challenge of decarbonization. Offshore energy technologies are evolving, with Mocean Energy’s ocean energy systems and SubCtech’s subsea power storage solutions paving the way for cleaner, greener operations. Offshore wind, a standout topic in this edition, is expanding globally with significant developments in the U.S., South America, and Asia.
Freeman reflects on the sector’s progress, noting that while there is no “plug-in for rapidly phasing out the global reliance on fossil fuels,” innovations like these are critical steps toward diversifying the energy mix. NOAA’s ocean mapping efforts and Oceaneering’s transformative ocean technologies further exemplify how the industry is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable development.
Collaboration continues to be the driving force behind marine technology advancements. Initiatives like COVE’s marine tech collaborations and Ocean Exchange’s ocean tech accelerators foster environments where innovation can thrive and organizations such as WHOI, the National Oceanography Centre, and NOAA are spearheading collaborative efforts in subsea exploration, ocean mapping, and enterprise-driven technologies.
The future of ocean technology isn’t just about tools and techniques, it’s also about people. Articles like IMarEST’s focus on data-driven skills and SEARCH’s deep ocean exploration showcase the importance of equipping professionals with the expertise to navigate a rapidly changing field. By fostering these capabilities, the industry is building a resilient, adaptable workforce ready to tackle future challenges.
The themes explored in this volume (autonomy, sustainability and collaboration) signal an industry committed to reshaping its relationship with the ocean. The developments featured in ON&T exemplify how technology is redefining what’s possible beneath the waves.