BlackBoats featured in the German Police Journal – on how maritime autonomy becomes a real tool for integrated security.
Critical infrastructure needs protection – not only in times of crisis, but constantly, systemically, and in cooperation. In late January, the German Police Journal (Deutsches Polizeiblatt) published an article highlighting how maritime autonomous drones, such as BlackBoats’ systems, are already playing a crucial role in shaping the future of national and European resilience.
The article was written in October 2024 – long before recent escalations – and it underlines a key insight: security must be proactive. The presence of autonomous maritime vessels at sea is not a provocation. It is a signal:
We are watching. We are capable. We are connected.
A new logic: from operator to coordinated response
The BlackBoats system is designed to support the local operator – whether it’s an energy company, a coastal authority, or a port operator – in fulfilling their responsibilities. The onboard AI detects potential threats in real time, and if necessary, escalates the case to higher levels: joint coordination centres, maritime police, federal authorities, or military operations.
It’s not just about militarisation. It’s about building integrated security. We are re-connect authorities to team up. Creating bridges between real-world responsibility, real-time capability and tactial availability.
When a suspicious vessel enters an offshore zone, presence matters.
When presence is intelligent, deterrence begins.
From detection to de-escalation – and beyond
Our technology enables tiered escalation:
– from detection and live monitoring
– to automated warnings and proximity deterrence
– to handover for law enforcement or defence response.
But most important: The system provides time and clarity in moments of tension. It’s not just about taking action – it’s about preventing escalation through visibility, authority, and layered integration.
Recognised by law enforcement and the Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI)
The fact that federal police authorities see the operational value of such a system – and that our approach is being echoed at the strategic levels, – is a major milestone. It shows that smart security does not conflict with democratic oversight.
On the contrary: integrated security is an enabler of sovereignty, legality, and social trust.
Technology is ready. The coordination must follow.
The article makes one thing clear: The technology will become available. The threat is present. And the partners are willing. Now is the time to shift from pilots to full implementation envisioning full-scale implementation, from departmental silos to integrated response systems.
zero.nine, building on the success of ZeroOne, is ready to serve.
“Let’s not wait for the next blackout to start cooperating. Let’s act now – with clarity, coordination, and autonomy at sea.”
Diana S. Engelhard