The Future Marine Research Infrastructure (FMRI) programme has reached a major milestone with the release of three new reports that will help set the direction for the UK’s future ocean science capabilities.

These reports are:

Together, they represent a significant body of work, developed in close collaboration with the UK marine science and technology community. They bring together a wide range of insights, challenges and opportunities – laying the groundwork for decisions on what research infrastructure the UK will need to deliver world-leading marine science in the decades ahead.


The Science Requirements Framework outlines what the science community needs from future infrastructure – from ships and sensors to data systems and autonomous platforms.


The Digital Infrastructure Scoping Study explores how digital tools, data flows, and connectivity will underpin the marine science system of the future.


The Coastal Autonomy Workshop Findings & Roadmap sets out a vision for how autonomous technologies could transform the way we observe and understand coastal environments.


These reports are the result of extensive engagement, workshops, and expert input over the past year. They form a critical foundation for the next phases of the FMRI programme, as the focus shifts toward developing options for investment and delivery.


The programme team would like to thank everyone who contributed their time, expertise and perspectives – your input has been vital in shaping this work.