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Leeway Marine adds first autonomous vessel to its fleet
A Canadian owner of offshore support and survey vessels is adding the first unmanned unit to its fleet
Leeway Marine is preparing for the arrival of the first electric-powered, uncrewed surface vessel (USV) in eastern Canada after securing it from a UK manufacturer.
The Canadian OSV owner is adding an Oceanus12 boat, Viper, to meet rising demand for autonomous services in the offshore, defence and marine survey sectors.
It was manufactured by UK-based ZeroUSV with hybrid propulsion and autonomous navigation capabilities, and is sailing to Canada, with its arrival expected later in Q3 2025. This will be the first high-endurance, uncrewed surface vessel in this part of Canada, opening new possibilities for autonomous and remotely controlled USVs.
Viper left UK waters following successful trials in Plymouth, Devon, and will undertake sea trials and operational testing once it arrives in Canada.
Halifax, Nova Scotia-headquartered Leeway Marine has been appointed as ZeroUSV’s first international franchisee, with exclusive rights to operate Oceanus12 vessels in Canada and the wider region on a charter basis.
Leeway Marine is one of Canada’s largest offshore charter operators, with a fleet of five owned OSVs and one managed vessel.
Oceanus12 has a hybrid-electric twin propulsion system, advanced autonomy using artificial intelligence software from Marine AI, and space for mission equipment.
“Viper is heading into service with Leeway Marine, which has deep operational experience and knowledge, making it the ideal partner to take ZeroUSV into North America,” said ZeroUSV founder Matthew Ratsey.
“This is a meaningful step in our global expansion, and one that shows the increasing demand for high-performance, uncrewed platforms that do not rely on costly ownership models.”
Oceanus12 vessels can be supported by ZeroUSV’s remote observation centre, reducing complexity, time to deployment and risks for an owner.
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