Uncrewed Maritime Systems: A Primer

The development of uncrewed maritime systems (UMSs) – which include vehicles that can be piloted either remotely or semi-autonomously – has increased. This primer introduces the different types of UMS, describes their key components and functions, and outlines the main challenges that these systems can pose to international security. The focus of the primer is on describing the main areas of technological innovation and development related to the key components that comprise UMSs, outlining the anticipated areas of progress and potential concern.