Abstract The theme of the paper is the technology by which ships and their operation are improved and the need to take account of the operational environment and diverse social influences, the outcome being, necessarily, a compromise. The implications of a range of the major requirements and influences on the final product are considered. The consequences for technology are described under headings of design, construction and operation. The role of R & D in advancing the accepted level of application of this technology is emphasized. It is concluded that the shipbuilder will continue to lead in the application of R & D and will be instrumental in introducing high-technology solutions to the problems of improvement.