Advances in uncrewed surface and underwater vehicles, intelligent sensors, artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics are expanding what is possible across some of the world’s most challenging environments.
As these technologies continue to mature, so does the need for collaboration.
This October, these conversations will take center stage at the Marine Technology Society’s (MTS) Next-Generation Maritime Autonomy: Uncrewed Maritime Systems Across Surface and Undersea Environments TechSurge from October 6–8, 2026, at the Crowne Plaza Crystal City in Arlington, Virginia. The event will convene engineers, researchers, government leaders, technology developers, and industry professionals to explore the latest advances shaping autonomous maritime operations.
Hosted by the MTS Uncrewed Maritime Systems Committee in partnership with the MTS DC Section and the MTS Bio-Inspired Technologies Committee, this TechSurge is designed around the interconnected themes of vehicles, sensors, and data, and will bring together experts from across the maritime sector to examine the technologies, operational experiences, and emerging applications driving the future of autonomy.
Through keynote presentations, technical sessions, panel discussions, and real-world case studies, participants will explore advances in autonomous platforms, next-generation sensing technologies, bio-inspired systems, artificial intelligence, resilient communications, and integrated data architectures. Just as importantly, they will share lessons learned from operational deployments, highlighting technological breakthroughs and the practical realities of implementing autonomous systems in the field.
The future of maritime autonomy will not be defined by any single platform or breakthrough technology. It will be shaped by partnerships that connect innovators with operators, researchers with industry, and emerging ideas with real-world applications. By creating opportunities for those conversations, MTS continues to help accelerate innovation across the global ocean enterprise.
Those interested in helping shape the future of autonomous maritime systems are encouraged to join MTS at the Next-Generation Maritime Autonomy TechSurge, October 6–8, 2026, in Arlington, Virginia. Whether you’re developing autonomous technologies, deploying operational systems, advancing research, or informing policy, this TechSurge provides an opportunity to connect with the leaders driving the next era of maritime innovation.
Learn more and register at mtsociety.org/techsurge-next-gen-maritime-autonomy.
