What we offer
Lloyd’s Register (LR), offers a number of routes for certifying Unmanned Marine Systems (UMS), depending on the vessel and flag requirements. These are based around the application of the LR Code for Unmanned Marine Systems (the ‘UMS Code’), which is recognised for international application, alongside the application of other rules, standards and flag requirements as applicable.
We are acting as a Certifying Authority (CA), is authorised to provide certification services under WBC3, including for ROUVs covered by Annex 2. Notably, LR was the first certifying authority approved by the MCA in 2025 to issue UMS certification in accordance with WBC3 Annex 2.
Our approach to certification under the WBC3 leverages the requirements and processes developed to deliver certification under the UMS Code, and as such dual certification to both codes is generally recommended and offered. Application of the UMS Code can also support the MCA Marine Guidance Note (MGN) 664 (M+F) Certification process for vessels using innovative technology, should this be applicable.
What is the LR UMS Code
The ‘UMS Code’ provides a goal-based framework for assurance of the safe design, build and maintenance of an unmanned system. Focusing on the “safe to operate” aspects of an UMS (across structures, stability, control, electrical, navigation, propulsion & manoeuvring, fire and auxiliary system chapters) the UMS Code provides an established framework that minimises the effort required by an owner or operator to achieve certification and which is acceptable to Flag States, local regulators and other parties. Whilst initially targeted at small non-convention sized systems, including naval systems, it is scalable and capable of application to larger, more complex vessels as technology and regulation develops. The goal-based nature of the UMS Code allows it to be applied to systems of varying levels of autonomy, and of mixed operational profiles including systems undertaking both surfaced and submerged operations.
It has been written to support innovation by establishing requirements for which compliance can be demonstrated using a tailored combination of standards, or where standards do not exist, the application of risk-based assessment techniques. LR then applies verification methods according to the solution selected and the required Level of Integrity defined during the early assessment phase of a project. A further benefit of the goal-based structure is that it defines an ultimate safety objective whilst allowing for the consideration of alternative designs and solutions that meet the safety objective; thereby supporting innovation in an area that is developing rapidly.
The UMS Code has been developed against a hazard analysis of UMS design and operation and benchmarked against existing commercial and naval regulatory requirements, including SOLAS and the Naval Ship Code, using LR's depth of experience in these sectors and in the development of goal-based standards. It has also been validated against several existing UMS designs.
