Maritime Research and Innovation UK (MarRI-UK) has announced that 11 projects to boost technological innovation in UK maritime received grants, totalling £1.5m.

The MarRI-UK initiative is aided by the UK Department for Transport (DfT) and supports the development of technological innovation to improve the services and operations of UK maritime.

In January last year, the UK Government released a long-term vision regarding the future of the sector named Maritime 2050.

It includes a commitment to boost the innovation in maritime and increase the benefits received from new maritime technology.

The call for the grant was launched in September last year and organisations from the UK applied for grants to develop mid-TRL (TRL 3-7) technologies.

The selection criteria included value for money, innovation and benefits, as well as the fit with Maritime 2050 and Technology and Innovation Route Map.

Maritime Minister Kelly Tolhurst said: “Innovation and technological advancements are key to developing a more efficient and advanced maritime sector as we build a green legacy from Covid-19.

“Through our ambitious Maritime 2050 vision, this government continues to support creative and innovative solutions to enhance our maritime transport, and I look forward to seeing the results of these cutting-edge projects.”

MarRI-UK chair John Howie said: “The 11 successful projects are great examples of UK technology and innovation, helping the UK maritime sector meet the challenges and goals set out in the Maritime 2050 vision.”

MarRI-UK promotes collaboration between the government, companies and academia and is based in the University of Strathclyde.