The development of autonomous and unmanned vessels has become a central focus of maritime research and innovation. The literature includes various studies related to the subsystems and algorithms for the autonomous operation of vessels. However, discussions surrounding the regulatory and normative framework appear to lag behind technological progress. Despite this, the debate cannot be considered null. Some authors have analyzed the operation of autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) and unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) considering the current regulatory framework. There are also reflections on the role of the human component and on the interaction with conventional vessels. On the other hand, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and different entities have included the topic on their agendas, for which they have activated different mechanisms and scenarios for the development of the debate. Against this backdrop, this paper examines the regulatory and normative framework of the operation of autonomous vessels, trying to identify some of the facets that make up the current debate. The entry into operation of vessels in real-world contexts will be a reality soon and points of convergence between the technological aspect and the social component must emerge. Considering the potential impacts and advantages of integrating new technologies with conventional ones, it is expected that the social debate will develop in such a way that the regulations are timely and appropriate.
Castano-Londono et al. (Mon,) studied this question.
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