The maritime industry is on the cusp of a seismic shift, heralded by the successful delivery of the REACH REMOTE 1, a 24-metre unmanned surface vessel (USV) engineered by Kongsberg Maritime. This momentous achievement isn’t just a feather in the cap for those involved; it represents a watershed moment in offshore operations, driven by collaboration among Kongsberg Maritime, REACH SUBSEA ASA, Massterly, and Trosvik Maritime.
Equipped with state-of-the-art KONGSBERG technology, the REACH REMOTE 1 is set to redefine how we approach offshore tasks. Its inaugural mission? Underwater surveys off the coast of Haugesund, Norway. Yet, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The vessel’s capabilities stretch far beyond this initial assignment, hinting at a future where uncrewed operations could become the norm rather than the exception. The anticipation surrounding the upcoming REACH REMOTE 2, which is gearing up for sea trials, only adds to the excitement.
Bjørg Mathisen Døving, VP of Reach Remote at REACH SUBSEA, encapsulated the essence of this project: “Reach Remote is an extraordinary journey, bringing together the unique expertise of Kongsberg Maritime, Reach Subsea, and Massterly shaping the future of uncrewed offshore operations.” This partnership underscores a growing trend in the maritime sector—collaboration is key to innovation.
Kongsberg Maritime’s role as the prime contractor was pivotal, overseeing everything from vessel design to systems integration. Their commitment to pushing the boundaries of maritime technology is evident. Lisa Edvardsen Haugan, President of Kongsberg Maritime, stated, “What began as a visionary idea has now become a tangible reality.” This sentiment reflects a broader industry shift towards sustainable and efficient operations, where USVs like REACH REMOTE 1 are poised to play an integral role.
During the intensive sea trials, the USV was monitored from a mobile Remote Operations Centre (ROC) aboard the support vessel Avant. As operations transition to pilot status, Massterly will take control from a land-based ROC in Horten, Norway. This remote control capability is a game-changer, offering significant advantages over traditional crewed vessels. It not only cuts operational costs but also enhances safety and reduces emissions.
The design of the REACH REMOTE USV is a testament to the potential of uncrewed technology. By eliminating the need for onboard crew, we can streamline operations and mitigate risks associated with human error. Kongsberg Maritime’s collaboration with Det Norske Veritas (DNV) and the Norwegian Maritime Authority has been crucial in navigating the regulatory complexities tied to uncrewed vessels, ensuring that safety and reliability remain paramount.
As we look ahead, the gradual introduction of increased remote and autonomous functionality promises to revolutionize offshore operations further. The maritime sector is standing at a crossroads, and the successful deployment of vessels like the REACH REMOTE 1 could very well be the catalyst for a new era of efficiency and sustainability. The industry’s trajectory is shifting, and those who embrace this change will undoubtedly lead the way into the future.
