The evolving seascape of naval warfare: unmanned underwater vehicles and the challenges for international law

Abstract The rapid advancement of unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) has presented complex legal challenges in international maritime law. This article explores UUVs’ legal status and navigational rights in various maritime zones, analysing legal considerations related to innocent passage, and the potential for port access and sovereign immunity for UUVs. It contends that UUVs should be entitled to sovereign immunity when used for non-commercial government purposes. It also investigates the possibility of potential enforcement actions under the law of the sea against UUVs engaged in unauthorized activities. Additionally, it scrutinizes UUVs’ compliance with international standards, addressing security concerns and their role in international law of armed conflict. Subsequently, it touches upon the ongoing debate surrounding lethal autonomous weapons systems to provide a prospective outlook in a cursory manner. The conclusion underscores the necessity of proactive international initiatives to address the legal challenges posed by UUVs and proposes the recognition of UUVs as a distinct vessel category to ensure uniformity and predictability in their deployment.