Fellows spotlight

Research focus: Increasing the availability of autonomous systems

As a BMT Fellow specialising in autonomous and intelligent systems, Eshan Rajabally is helping shape the next generation of maritime operations. His work focuses on enabling vessels to operate with minimal or no onboard crew, combining remote control with intelligent onboard functionality. This capability is critical for customers seeking safer, more efficient solutions in increasingly complex and hazardous environments.

Why autonomy matters

The maritime industry faces a dual force: technology push from breakthroughs like artificial intelligence and technology pull driven by operational needs. Customers want to reduce risk by removing personnel from harm’s way while achieving cost efficiencies. Eshan’s role is to help them navigate this evolving landscape, debunk myths, and design systems that are practical, safe, and effective.

Autonomy is no longer confined to small, niche platforms. Over the coming years, Eshan expects to see it applied to larger and more complex vessels, where integration challenges multiply. This shift demands structured thinking and robust frameworks to ensure systems are not only technically feasible but also operationally viable.

Specialist research areas

Eshan’s fellowship research spans two complementary areas:

• Allocation of Function (AoF): A structured approach to deciding which tasks are best handled by humans versus machines. By updating traditional human factors frameworks, this work ensures autonomy is integrated thoughtfully, balancing efficiency with safety. AoF is currently in its survey and scoping phase, identifying best practices and gaps in industry knowledge.

• Drone Route Optimisation: Focused on improving inspection drone deployment for offshore infrastructure, particularly in the fast-growing offshore wind sector. This research aims to reduce costs and risks by enhancing precision and efficiency in condition monitoring. A compelling case study is already in development.

Both projects tackle real-world challenges: scaling autonomous operations without compromising reliability and delivering smarter inspection solutions in harsh environments.

Collaboration and impact

Eshan’s work is highly collaborative, drawing on expertise in human factors, AI, and offshore engineering within BMT, as well as academic partnerships. The intended impact is clear—advancing industry best practice, optimising resources in hostile conditions, and accelerating adoption of autonomy.

By demystifying enabling technologies like AI and providing expert guidance, Eshan helps customers avoid common pitfalls and make informed decisions about autonomy adoption. His research is not just theoretical; it is grounded in practical application, ensuring outputs deliver tangible benefits for industry.

Passion and purpose

For Eshan, success begins with conviction. “Personal belief in the research topic is the stand-out prerequisite for success,” he says. His career-long passion for cutting-edge R&D and the transformative potential of intelligent systems drives his work. As a Fellow, he values the opportunity to mentor emerging talent and contribute to BMT’s strategic growth through innovation.

"I’ve learnt that personal conviction behind any research topic is the stand-out prerequisite for success."

Looking ahead

Autonomy is set to redefine maritime operations, but its adoption requires careful planning and expert insight. Through his research and leadership, Eshan is helping customers unlock the benefits of intelligent systems while maintaining safety and reliability.

Maritime Autonomy Technology & Innovation Lead

Want to learn more about Eshan's role or the autonomy services we offer? Connect with him on LinkedIn.