UK ministers test autonomous maritime tech at Ocean Infinity

KUALA LUMPUR, 6 AUGUST 2026 —

LONDON/KUALA LUMPUR – UK Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle and Maritime Minister Keir Mather operated Ocean Infinity’s seabed robotics during a live demonstration at the company’s Southampton Operations Centre on Wednesday.

The visit highlighted the UK government’s push to accelerate the deployment of innovative maritime technologies, as part of broader efforts to modernise the sector. Kyle and Mather met Ocean Infinity’s leadership and toured the centre, where they observed how robotics and autonomous systems are reshaping offshore operations.

During the demonstration, Maritime Minister Keir Mather remotely controlled an underwater vehicle off Norway’s coast, using a robotic arm to place a node on the seabed with minimal guidance. The exercise underscored the shift toward remote and autonomous maritime operations, which aim to reduce offshore risks, improve efficiency and create new land-based roles.

Ocean Infinity designs and operates autonomous vessels, underwater robots and software platforms for sectors including offshore energy, defence and science. The technologies on display are already deployed globally, supporting data collection, complex missions and environmental monitoring.

However, industry observers note potential opportunities for Malaysian firms in autonomous maritime solutions, given the country’s strategic position in global shipping routes.

Oliver Plunkett, Ocean Infinity’s CEO, said regulatory progress remains critical for scaling autonomous maritime tech. “The UK can lead globally if we move quickly to test and prove these systems safely,” he said. The government’s support, he added, provides confidence for companies to invest and scale operations.

The visit reinforced the UK’s ambition to lead next-generation maritime innovation, with autonomous systems poised to redefine industry standards. For Ocean Infinity, the focus extends beyond technology to reducing human risk, minimising environmental impact and transforming how maritime work is delivered.