This working paper discusses the impact of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) on aspects of the International Convention on Salvage 1989. In particular, it analyses the recently concluded scoping exercise of the Legal Committee of the International Maritime Organization on the subject of MASS and the Salvage Convention.

The paper highlights the divergent views of relevant stakeholders, argues that several developments relating to MASS require amendment of the Salvage Convention, and suggests that the current compensation regime may be a poor fit for MASS salvage. Finally, it argues that the conclusions of the Legal Committee in its Scoping Exercise will need to be revisited, owing to the changes that will arise from the introduction of MASS.