National Natural Science Foundation Launches Marine Intelligent Unmanned Vessel Project

The National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) has recently launched a groundbreaking innovation research project titled "Theory, Technology, and Applications of Autonomous Intelligent Unmanned Vessel Systems for the Ocean" in Shanghai. Attending the launch meeting were key NSFC officials, including Liu Ke, Deputy Director of the Information Science Department, along with departmental leaders Zhang Lijia, Wu Guozheng, and Wang Zhiheng. The event also welcomed renowned experts such as Academician Wang Yaonan from Hunan University and Professor Jiang Bin, President of Nanjing航空航天大学 (Nanjing Aerospace University), among 13 other project advisory committee members. Representatives from the host institution, Shanghai University, included Party Secretary Cheng Danhong, Vice President Zhang Jianhua, Executive Deputy Director of Research Management Zhang Xinpeng, and Director of Basic and International Cooperation Zhen Qiang, alongside the project team members. The meeting was chaired by Vice President Zhang Jianhua. In his opening remarks, Liu Ke emphasized that a solid start is crucial for success and offered three strategic recommendations. First, he urged the project team to maintain a clear vision and focus on world-leading objectives. Second, he stressed the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and cohesive teamwork. Third, he advised keeping an open mindset, staying adaptable to technological advancements, and regularly refining the project’s approach. Liu reassured that the NSFC would continue to monitor and support the project, and he thanked Shanghai University for providing strong backing. Cheng Danhong, representing the host institution, expressed gratitude for the NSFC's substantial support and the guidance from the advisory experts. He highlighted that securing this project marks a significant milestone in the university's pursuit of high-caliber scientific research, fostering the integration of education, technology, and talent. Cheng noted that Shanghai University has prioritized foundational and applied research, actively implementing the concept of organized scientific research and responding to various NSFC reform initiatives. The university will adhere to NSFC requirements and provide comprehensive support to ensure the project's successful execution. Project leader Professor Xie Shaorong provided an in-depth overview of the "Theory, Technology, and Applications of Autonomous Intelligent Unmanned Vessel Systems for the Ocean." He discussed the project's foundation, core scientific challenges, research methodologies, and anticipated outcomes. Professor Xie explained that the project focuses on large-scale, highly competitive, and autonomous collaborative scenarios. Over the next five years, the research group aims to develop three main areas: a resilient safety system for large-scale, high-sea-condition unmanned vessel clusters; a progressive learning framework; and a diverse virtual-real verification platform tailored for high-dynamic, competitive environments. The goal is to advance both theoretical innovation and practical solutions, positioning the team as a leading international force in this field. The expert panel attentively reviewed the project presentation and provided positive feedback on its research foundation and direction. Academician Wang Yaonan emphasized that while the project's primary goal is to achieve technological breakthroughs, it must also prioritize the cultivation of innovative talent. He recommended delegating specific research tasks to young scientists, thereby providing them with practical experience and growth opportunities. Wang further suggested leveraging the team's extensive expertise in swarm intelligence to create a standardized, self-controlled intelligent base for unmanned systems. This base should feature a unified architecture encompassing algorithms, software, and hardware, ensuring high security, multi-modal information sensing, and strategic decision-making capabilities in complex marine environments. He concluded that building this core platform would significantly enhance China’s autonomous innovation in oceanic unmanned systems, contributing to national defense and scientific independence. In his concluding remarks, Liu Ke reiterated his appreciation to the experts for their valuable input and to Shanghai University for its unwavering support. He underscored the critical nature of this project in enhancing China’s technological competitiveness and called on the project team to display unprecedented determination and innovation. Over the next five years, the team is tasked with transitioning from parity to leadership in the field, providing robust technological support for the nation’s maritime endeavors. The successful launch meeting marks the official commencement of the "Theory, Technology, and Applications of Autonomous Intelligent Unmanned Vessel Systems for the Ocean" project, setting a firm foundation for its implementation. Under the guiding principle of "Perseverance and Contribution," Professor Xie Shaorong’s team will wield the "Jinghai" cluster to pioneer advancements in serving China’s goal of becoming a maritime powerhouse.