How Expleo’s Vision 202X Is Shaping the Future of Naval Engineering

A Ship Design Challenge That’s More Than Just Blueprints

Expleo, a global engineering and consulting firm, is making waves in the UK’s naval sector with its ambitious ship design challenge, Vision 202X. The initiative isn’t just about drafting sleek vessel concepts—it’s a talent incubator, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while pushing the boundaries of innovation for defense and marine manufacturers. By blending intelligent engineering with real-world flexibility, Expleo is preparing the next generation of naval architects for an era of rapid technological change.

“Vision 202X isn’t just a design exercise—it’s a proving ground for engineers to tackle tomorrow’s maritime challenges today.”

Over six months, graduates and seasoned engineers collaborated intensively, navigating every phase of vessel design—from requirements capture to engineering analysis and concept visualization. The program didn’t just teach skills; it forged expertise in concept design, naval architecture, marine engineering, and systems engineering, with a sharp focus on testing, validation, and verification. This hands-on approach ensured participants didn’t just learn theory but applied it under pressure.

From Royal Navy Insight to Real-World Impact

Guiding the project was Commodore Steve Prest (Ret.), a 25-year Royal Navy veteran who stepped into the role of “client.” His mission? To ground the engineers’ ambitions in operational reality. Prest challenged assumptions, refined mission needs, and ensured designs met the harsh demands of naval service. His involvement bridged the gap between academic idealism and battlefield pragmatism—a rare opportunity for young engineers to learn from lived experience.

“The best designs aren’t just functional; they’re resilient. That’s what happens when you combine fresh talent with hard-won expertise,” Prest noted.

The culmination of Vision 202X wasn’t confined to Expleo’s offices. Results were unveiled at the Combined Naval Event (CNE) 2025 in Farnborough, where industry leaders and defense stakeholders got a firsthand look at the future of naval engineering. The project didn’t just produce cutting-edge vessel concepts—it proved that investing in talent today ensures fleets remain agile tomorrow. For Expleo, Vision 202X is more than a program; it’s a blueprint for innovation itself.