BMT Launches Maritime Autonomous Systems E-Learning Course as IMO MASS Code Takes Effect
BMT has launched a new Maritime Autonomous Systems e-learning course as autonomous technologies continue to advance across the maritime sector, while the skills and knowledge needed to understand their use are struggling to keep pace. The introductory online course is designed to help professionals build the knowledge and confidence needed to engage effectively with autonomy technologies.
The launch comes after the first International Maritime Organization (IMO) MASS Code took effect on 1 July, while Maritime Autonomous Systems are moving rapidly into defence and commercial operations. BMT said the course responds to the growing need for a wider understanding of autonomy beyond specialist engineering teams, particularly as organisations make decisions involving autonomous capabilities, procurement, operations and regulation.
Developed by BMT’s maritime autonomy specialists, the self-paced course provides an introduction to Maritime Autonomous Systems. It covers autonomy fundamentals, operational considerations, safety, regulation, emerging technologies and real-world applications.
Why Maritime Autonomy Knowledge is becoming more Important
The course has been developed in response to a growing industry need for broader understanding of autonomy beyond specialist engineering teams. As autonomous technologies continue to evolve, organisations across the maritime sector are increasingly being asked to make decisions about autonomous capabilities, procurement, operations and regulation without a foundational understanding of the technologies involved.
Will Alexander, Campaign Lead – Maritime Autonomous Systems at BMT, said Maritime Autonomous Systems are becoming part of the maritime ecosystem as organisations introduce remote operations, deploy autonomous capabilities or procure new technologies.
“With the IMO’s first MASS Code having taken effect on 1 July, the regulatory picture is now maturing alongside the technology – and as adoption grows, it is becoming increasingly important for a much wider audience to understand the opportunities, challenges and implications of autonomy,” Alexander said.
Alexander added that many organisations recognise the potential benefits of autonomy, but successfully integrating the technologies requires more than technical innovation. It also requires an understanding of how autonomy affects operations, safety, regulation, organisational culture and ways of working.
BMT said the course has been developed to educate and upskill professionals across the sector while building a foundational understanding of maritime autonomy.
Who can take BMT’s Maritime Autonomous Systems Course?
The course is aimed at programme and project managers, engineers, procurement and commercial teams, regulators, compliance professionals and senior decision-makers who need to understand how autonomous technologies are reshaping the maritime sector.
Participants receive an introduction to key concepts including levels of autonomy, autonomous system architecture, sensing and AI-enabled technologies, regulatory frameworks, safety considerations, and current and emerging maritime applications.
The course therefore provides a foundation for professionals working across areas connected with maritime technology, maritime operations, procurement, safety, regulation and compliance.
Industry Support for BMT’s Maritime Autonomy Training
Emma Johnson, Director of the Maritime Autonomous Systems Group at the Society of Maritime Industries (SMI), described BMT’s Introduction to Maritime Autonomous Systems course as a useful resource for people entering the maritime autonomy sector or seeking to expand their understanding of the rapidly developing field.
Johnson said the course is easy to navigate and well structured, with complex subjects presented clearly and accessibly. She also highlighted its interactive quizzes, which help reinforce learning and ensure key concepts are retained.
She said she was particularly impressed by the breadth of the content, including both UK and international perspectives on maritime autonomy. Despite already working in the sector, Johnson said she came away having learned new information and described the course as providing a strong foundation for industry professionals seeking to understand the technologies, opportunities and challenges shaping autonomous maritime operations.
BMT’s Experience in Maritime Autonomous Systems
The course launch builds on BMT’s extensive experience supporting the development, integration and assurance of Maritime Autonomous Systems across defence and commercial markets.
BMT has worked with customers across the autonomy lifecycle, helping organisations understand risks, develop concepts of operation, evaluate technologies and integrate autonomous capabilities into maritime operations.
BMT also provides services connected with autonomy assurance, safety, testing, compliance and training, supporting organisations involved in the adoption of autonomous maritime systems.
ROC-Sim Supports Training for Uncrewed Vessel Operations
The new course follows BMT’s work in practical maritime autonomy training. Earlier this year, BMT’s award-winning Remote Operations Centre Simulator (ROC-Sim) supported SeaBot Maritime in delivering its first USV ROC Supervisor course at BMT’s Digital Innovation and Simulation Centre (DISC) in Fareham.
The programme marked ROC-Sim’s first commercial deployment. In collaboration with Marine AI, it enabled participants to develop the practical skills required to supervise multiple uncrewed vessels in a realistic, high-fidelity operating environment.
The development reflects the growing role of training and simulation as autonomous and remotely operated technologies become increasingly relevant to maritime operations.
BMT Expands Maritime Education and Training
The Maritime Autonomous Systems course also reflects BMT’s growing footprint in the maritime education and training space as the company continues its broader growth and diversification.
BMT’s wider global training offer includes courses such as Warships 101 and Whole Life Warship Capability Management training. These courses are designed to help bridge the education gap for naval architects and build technical understanding across the naval architecture community.
As Maritime Autonomous Systems continue to develop across defence and commercial operations, BMT’s new e-learning course provides professionals with an accessible introduction to the technologies, operational considerations, safety issues and regulatory frameworks associated with maritime autonomy.
