The maritime industry is in the midst of a seismic shift, and it’s not just about riding out the waves—it’s about harnessing the power of technology to navigate uncharted waters. The latest developments in maritime robotics, particularly the advent of advanced unmanned surface vessels (USVs) and cutting-edge synthetic aperture sonar (SAS) systems, are redefining how we approach offshore energy asset inspections, environmental monitoring, and hydrographic surveying. These aren’t just incremental improvements; they’re game-changers that are set to revolutionize the industry.
Take, for instance, the REACH REMOTE 1 USV, a 24-meter vessel developed by Kongsberg Maritime for Norway’s Reach Subsea. This isn’t your average boat; it’s a technological marvel designed to operate without an onboard crew, controlled remotely from a land-based Remote Operations Centre (ROC) in Horten, Norway. Bjørg Mathisen Døving, VP of the REACH REMOTE initiative, highlights the industry’s need for a more competitive and cost-effective approach to subsea robotics. “Traditionally, we charter conventional, and much larger vessels to deploy ROVs for various offshore projects. However, the offshore industry is highly volatile, with seasonal fluctuations and weather constraints impacting operations. We wanted to introduce a more competitive and cost-effective approach to subsea robotics. The idea of smaller, highly autonomous surface vessels to support ROV operations was a natural progression.”
The REACH REMOTE 1 is equipped with a moonpool launch-and-recovery system (LARS) for its work-class ROV, allowing for safe deployment and retrieval in harsh conditions. It’s packed with hull-mounted survey sensors, including the EM 2040 multi-beam echo sounder and a sub-bottom profiler, capable of collecting high-resolution ocean data at depths down to 500 meters. The onboard ROV, with a 1,000-meter umbilical, expands these capabilities further, integrating multi-beam sonar, side-scan sonar, and intervention tools for pipeline inspections, structure monitoring, and seabed mapping. Marthe Kristine Sand, Kongsberg Maritime’s senior project manager, emphasizes the project’s significance. “This is a true step-change in offshore operations. Instead of relying on larger, crewed vessels, we now have a highly efficient platform that reduces costs, improves safety and enhances data acquisition.”
The vessel’s autonomy and remote operation capabilities are managed by Massterly, a joint venture between Kongsberg Maritime and Wilhelmsen. Erik Leenders, the naval architect behind the REACH REMOTE USV, explains the communication infrastructure: “REACH REMOTE 1 features multiple layers of connectivity, including Starlink, VSAT, 4G/5G and emergency Iridium systems. If one link fails, it automatically switches to another. We also use a proximity view system that provides 360-degree situational awareness with automated object detection.”
The operational advantages are clear: reduced greenhouse gas emissions, enhanced safety, and a more diverse workforce. Døving notes, “These vessels can operate in extreme environments without putting human lives at risk. They also reduce greenhouse gas emissions, thanks to their hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system.” The reduced need for offshore staffing brings additional benefits, including easier logistics, reduced travel requirements and expanded opportunities for a more diverse workforce. “This technology allows us to open up offshore operations to a broader range of talent, including individuals who may not have been able to commit to long-duration offshore deployments,” Døving pointed out.
EIVA, another key player in the industry, is also pushing the boundaries of autonomous subsea inspections. Christian Thomsen, CEO of EIVA, discusses how the company is pioneering a new era of autonomous subsea inspections, leveraging precision engineering, real-time data processing and flexible software solutions to enhance efficiency and accuracy. “Our goal has always been to provide the best tools for the job—whether that means designing our own technology or integrating with best-in-class systems,” he said.
The successful launch of REACH REMOTE 1 and EIVA’s advancements signal a new era in offshore subsea operations. This isn’t just about keeping up with the times; it’s about setting the pace. As the industry increasingly embraces unmanned and autonomous solutions, these innovations promise safer, more efficient, and more sustainable subsea operations. The future of maritime and subsea inspections is here, and it’s autonomous. This shift will undoubtedly spark debates about the future of maritime jobs, the environmental impact of offshore operations, and the ethical considerations of autonomous systems. But one thing is clear: the maritime industry is sailing into a new horizon, and it’s going to be an exciting ride.
