Fugro has formed a partnership with SEA KIT International to develop a range of unmanned surface vessels (USVs) which can deploy remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) for marine asset inspection
The first USVs will be launched before the end of 2020 and a larger USV model is being designed for delivery in 2021.
The inspection-related USVs are being developed alongside Fugro’s range of USVs for hydrographic data acquisition.
Fugro chief executive Mark Heine said, “We are excited to be partnering with SEA-KIT International to develop a range of USVs.
“Together with other strategic alliances, this partnership represents a major acceleration to our strategy of leading the development of remote and autonomous solutions, which is key to delivering a safer and more sustainable approach to constructing and maintaining marine assets.”
In addition to investing in USVs and ROVs/AUVs, Fugro has built a global network of seven remote operations centres (ROCs) to deliver inspection and positioning services, including two new ROCs in Aberdeen, Scotland, and Leidschendam, the Netherlands, both opened in 2019.
The new range of USVs will consume up to 95% less fuel than traditional vessels, supporting international ambitions for zero global emissions in the marine industry.
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