Vessels
CMRE delivers its at-sea research, experimentation and technology demonstration programmes through two NATO-owned research vessels: the NATO Research Vessel (NRV) Alliance and the Coastal Research Vessel (CRV) Leonardo. Operated under the Italian Navy flag since 2016, both ships are crewed by experienced Italian Navy personnel.
Engineering
CMRE has an experienced, world-renowned Ocean Engineering capability in the Engineering Department that enables the rapid development of concepts into prototypes for scientific trials and operational experimentation. With over two decades of maritime autonomous vehicle experience, including Autonomous Underwater Vehicles, Gliders (underwater and surface) and Unmanned Surface Vehicles, the Centre has developed and successfully tested at sea a large number of maritime prototypes in the fields of anti-submarine warfare, naval mine countermeasures, critical maritime infrastructure and harbour protection, and environmental monitoring. More recently, the CMRE has acquired unmanned aerial vehicles for sea-surface search roles and environmental observation.
IT capabilities
The CMRE’s Information Technology Branch supports the Centre’s scientific research programmes by designing, testing, operating and maintaining state-of-the-art unclassified and classified communication and information systems used by CMRE’s scientists and engineers. Activities include the provision of systems and services to enable data collection, sharing and collaboration with external partners and customers. IT Department staff implement artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms for deployment on embedded platforms and in hosting facilities, and, deliver innovation by leading the development of unique software minimal viable products and operational prototype tools—predominantly in the maritime domain.