
New guidance on smaller Remotely Operated Unmanned Vessels (ROUVs) has been released, published by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). Marine Guidance Notice (MGN) 705 (M) came into force 31 December 2024 setting out a pathway for operation of the rapidly growing number of hi-tech ROUVs between 2.5-4.5 metres in length. It puts the UK among the first in the world to formally set out the scope of regulation and operators’ obligations in this emerging category, as well as the MCA’s commitments to well-founded oversight that keeps people safe. Publication is the first step since extensive consultation began in 2022 with a range of maritime industries.
The core of MGN 705 (M) is a two-year general exemption for eligible ROUVs. It Continue reading “New guidance for smaller Remotely Operated Unmanned Vessels published”