Development of a strategic policy for unmanned autonomous ships: a study on Taiwan

This study established a model for developing a strategic policy for unmanned autonomous ships. The decision matrix was used to develop policy programs, and SWOT analysis was employed to summarize the proposed strategy. This study analyzed programs for the reform of the system of maritime education, the technological development of autonomous ships, and legislative amendments regarding autonomous ships and used a decision matrix to select the most prudent and essential program alternatives. However, insufficient information is currently available on the basis of which to develop and implement an optimal program by using the decision matrix method alone. Therefore, SWOT analysis, which can be used to analyze internal and external factors, was conducted to acquire a concrete strategy. This is the first study to discuss the development of a strategy for unmanned autonomous ships by combining the decision matrix and SWOT method. This study also provides examples for future research and policy development. The strategies proposed herein are developing semiconductor and information technology, hosting and participating in technology exchange meetings, acquiring autonomous technology, and developing autonomous monitoring and navigation technology. This study’s finding have implications for policies on unmanned autonomous ships, represent a valuable reference for the development of such policies in Taiwan, and provide direction for decision-making on a global scale.