Lloyd’s Register becomes first to approve autonomous ships

Lloyd’s Register (LR) has achieved a maritime first, becoming the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s (MCA) inaugural certifying authority for remotely operated and unmanned vessels (ROUVs). Operating under Annex 2 of the Workboat Code Edition 3 (WBC3), LR is now authorised to certify ROUVs under 24 metres, ensuring they meet rigorous safety and operational standards before navigating UK waters.

With its newly granted authorisation and the established Unmanned Marine Systems Code, Lloyd’s Register (LR) is now equipped to deliver comprehensive certification services for remotely operated and unmanned vessels (ROUVs). This marks a significant step forward as demand surges for autonomous maritime solutions. The regulatory framework for ROUVs was formalised in December 2023, when the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) updated Workboat Code Edition 3 to include Annex 2—setting clear certification standards for vessels under 24 metres operating in UK waters.

Until now, no remotely operated and unmanned vessels (ROUVs) had been certified under the Workboat Code Edition 3 (WBC3), as certifying authorities first needed to gain necessary expertise and receive formal authorisation from the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). That changed on 18 July 2025, when Lloyd’s Register (LR) became the first certifying authority to meet those qualifications—unlocking immediate pathways for ROUV operators to seek certification.