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ADNOC set to build unmanned, remote-control offshore supply vessels
A major energy group’s vessel operating division plans to build two remotely operated landing craft to trial and operate in 2026
ADNOC Logistics & Services (L&S) is about to start constructing two vessels that will be remotely controlled from a base in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to support logistics to offshore facilities and artificial islands.
The Abu Dhabi, UAE-headquartered vessel owning division of the emirate’s energy company ADNOC, said the two 60-m landing craft will be delivered and ready for sea trials in Q4 2026.
These unmanned vessels, developed by SeaOwl, will be remotely controlled from ADNOC’s centre in Mussafah, UAE, using communications links and will have satellite-linked control systems supported by artificial intelligence (AI).
Once delivered, these vessels will undergo sea trials and safety validation in UAE waters, when ADNOC hopes to demonstrate how they reduce emissions, costs and enhance safety through remote operations.
“This milestone reflects ADNOC L&S’s leadership in redefining the future of maritime logistics and marks a strategic leap in our digital transformation journey,” said ADNOC L&S chief executive Abdulkareem Al Masabi.
“By advancing AI-powered remote vessel technology, we are enhancing safety, reducing emissions and driving cost efficiency across our offshore operations while supporting ADNOC’s and the UAE’s net-zero goals.”
ADNOC L&S expects to reduce carbon emissions from these crewless vessels by up to 30%, compared with similar-sized conventional vessels due to a combination of their lower weight, as they will not need crew accommodation, and AI-enabled route optimisation which will improve fuel efficiency, and 24-hour operations.
“This collaboration sets a new global benchmark for autonomous vehicle operations,” said SeaOwl chief executive Xavier Genin. “It brings together advanced teleoperation and AI capabilities to reshape the future of offshore logistics.”
These vessels will have a hybrid power-management system to optimise fuel consumption and lower emissions.
In the event of communication loss, the onboard AI will enable safe autonomous operations until connectivity is restored.
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