Drones are making their first tentative appearances in the maritime world.

Shipyards, class and owners are already using them for vessel-inspection purposes.

The technology is also being considered and piloted by authorities for monitoring ship emissions, pollution control and vessel tracking. And drones are being scoped for anti-piracy work, search and rescue, ocean mapping and vessel supply.

Although adoption is still in its infancy, the data they can provide, and its dissemination, is a potential game-changer.

Military