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Horizon Europe Cluster 5 — Climate, Energy and Mobility

Autonomous Vessel Operations

Funds two €7.5M innovation projects to demonstrate remote and fully autonomous vessels for short-sea shipping and inland waterways.

ScheduledEuropean CommissionEU

This topic supports two complementary demonstrations of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships: remotely controlled vessels without seafarers on board and fully autonomous operations whose onboard systems make decisions and determine actions. At least one demonstration must involve a short-sea shipping vessel and at least one an inland waterway vessel.

Projects must cover the complete navigation voyag

Innovation demonstrations of remote-controlled and fully autonomous vessels in short-sea shipping and inland waterways. Projects cover complete voyages, ports, mooring, berthing, locks, charging, cyber security, safety, predictive maintenance, workforce skills, economic viability and net carbon impact, reaching TRL 7.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Biennial
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.14 Apr 2027
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.22 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.30%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.€15M

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Last verified: 25 Aug 2026Funder reference: HORIZON-CL5-2027-03-D5-16Source: ec.europa.eu