‘Creates something genuinely unique for founders’
They appear to be something from the imagination of a Hollywood director. And yet, robot ships are increasingly becoming commonplace as both the military and civilian sectors seize upon their benefits.
Well, a new initiative is being set up to help companies working in the arena of autonomous marine systems and technologies.
This week sees Tech South West announcing the launch of the National Marine Autonomy Accelerator.
It’s working with industry leader Babcock International Group (Babcock). The University of Plymouth is also supporting the programme as a specialist partner.
It’s a massive boost for the sector as Tech South West’s Growth Forge programme has already supported more than 110 companies since its’ launch in 2024.
The scheme sets out to help businesses of varying sizes, from a number of different sectors, on their growth journey. This is the first specialist cohort focused on marine autonomy.
It’s being launched just months after Plymouth was designated as the UK’s National Centre for Marine Autonomy. The South West is also increasingly being acknowledged as the UK’s leading hub for advanced marine technologies.
‘Bringing together Babcock’s defence expertise and the University of Plymouth’s research capabilities, creates something genuinely unique for founders,’ says Dan Pritchard, Co-Founder of Tech South West.
‘Bring real benefits to everyone involved’
‘Working as part of a focused group, and directly alongside a major defence company, will bring real benefits to everyone involved.’
‘Accelerating innovation, defence procurement, regulatory frameworks and accessing testing facilities, we’ll be providing an array of targeted opportunities.’
The new programme builds on the existing partnership between Babcock and the University of Plymouth. They have a shared role within Team Plymouth: the collaborative initiative launched following the UK Defence Growth Deal.
‘As a University, we have a long track record in using our expertise to foster innovation, and advances in marine autonomy and dual-use technologies are unlocking opportunities across the region and nationally,’ says Professor Kevin Jones, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation at the University of Plymouth.
‘We are committed to working together with our partners across Team Plymouth and the National Centre for Marine Autonomy, to support businesses of all shapes and sizes to grow and make the most of the possibility now coming their way.’
Tech South West explains the accelerator programme is reflecting a joint commitment to advancing marine autonomy and strengthening collaboration between defence, research and industry.
‘This partnership with Tech South West underpins our commitment to support and ultimately integrate the most forward‑thinking SMEs into the wider capabilities we deliver for our customers,’ says Andrew Munday, Global Technology Director, Babcock International.
‘With our growing investment and long‑standing presence in the region, focusing our efforts here enables us to enhance existing marine autonomy initiatives, drive economic growth and strengthen the resilience of our local communities.’
‘Building a safer, more secure world for all’
‘Collaborating on next‑generation marine autonomy means we are directly investing in growth in the UK and building a safer, more secure world for all.’
The programme is now accepting applications from across the UK. Running through the year, organisers explain participating companies can benefit from intensive support via Growth Days and online.
Furthermore, it’s set to include learning modules, peer groups, one to one mentoring and access to all the high tech tools which helps businesses to grow.
There’s also the chance to gain that all important know how for leaders in the maritime sector.
The scheme’s open to companies already operating in the marine sector as well as those looking to move into this high-growth area. Companies are invited to apply to attend three Growth Days.
They are being held at Exeter Science Park on 18 March, Plymouth Science Park on 24 June and at Future Space at the University of the West of England on 15 September.
The programme culminates in an Investor Day in October 2026, where companies can pitch to investors. Other partners across the full Growth Forge Programme include Microsoft, Program Agency, Ashfords, Howden and Westcotts.
Breaktime News recently reported on the Tech South West annual awards.
