Maritime Autonomous Vehicles in Polar Waters Opportunities, Risks, and Governance Implications

Abstract

Climate change has altered the maritime security landscape of the polar regions, making polar waters more navigable but not less hazardous. Human and shipping activity has increased, introducing new threats to the polar regions. To counter these threats, states, scientists, and shipping companies are increasingly relying on maritime autonomous vehicles (MAVs). MAVs, however, have their own weaknesses, further challenging maritime security in polar waters. Regardless of their limitations, the use of MAVs in polar waters is only expected to increase, turning their regulation into a matter of urgency. This chapter offers a comprehensive assessment of how MAVs can enhance maritime security in polar waters, without losing sight of their weaknesses. It also evaluates the governance implications that arise out of their use under international law, arguing that the existing legal instruments can only to an extent regulate the distinct features of MAVs.