The Royal Navy, in collaboration with the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), is looking for new technologies from industry to improve the ability of unmanned and autonomous systems to operate underwater.
The call was made through the Maritime Enterprise Innovation Scotland Conference (MEISC) held at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow.
Two specific challenges were set: the provision of low power and high accuracy underwater navigation systems, and underwater vehicle energy management and energy scavenging systems.
The developer of any technologies which are taken on will receive funding of between £40,000-£100,000 to take forward their proposals, technical support and will retain intellectual property rights, Royal Navy explained.
Rear admiral John Weale said: “The Royal Navy is interested in any new ideas or technologies that can enhance the UK’s defence and security capabilities.
“To maintain its world class capabilities in the years ahead the Royal Navy will require even greater industrial partnership and innovation throughout the supply chain.
“The Royal Navy works with more than 300 industry partners throughout the UK in developing new technologies and innovations and events like this are important for building those relationships.”
Sir Jim McDonald , principal and vice-chancellor of the University of Strathclyde, said: “The University of Strathclyde has unrivaled links with industry and is adept at partnership working, bringing industry, government and academia together to innovate.
“We’re delighted to be supporting the MEISC and the collaborations it facilitates, as well as showcasing the research we are undertaking.”