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SMM 2024: uncrewed surface vessel snags vessel of the year title
The first of two Reach Remote uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) built for offshore surveys and inspections will join Equinor for a technology qualification programme in Q4 2024
Remote vessel operator Reach Subsea has won recognition for its first remotely-operated USV some five years after unveiling the concept, earning the Skipsrevyen Ship of the Year 2024 award at the SMM exhibition in Hamburg.
Reach Subsea’s Reach Remote 1 USV is the first of a pair uncrewed 24-meter surface vessels and is scheduled for deployment in 2024, sailing under the Norwegian flag.
The vessel is currently undergoing final commissioning at Trosvik Maritime yard. It is scheduled to begin a technology qualification program this fall, collaborating with major global energy players, including Equinor.
Speaking at the award ceremony, COO of Reach Subsea, Inge Grutle said “We are very proud to be awarded the Ship of the Year award for our first uncrewed vessel, Reach Remote 1, which we are confident will be the first in a series of many to support our ambition to give our clients sustainable access to the ocean space.”
Reach Subsea said the project has involved a range of companies in support of its ownership and initial design of the vessels, including KONGSBERG (design and turnkey contractor) Trosvik Maritime AS (shipyard), Massterly and Kystdesign for remote features and DNV, and the Norwegian Maritime Authorities (NMA).
Reach Subsea has completed construction of its two uncrewed surface vessels and is using two smaller Orca USVs to bring uncrewed, remote-operated vessel technology to offshore surveys for hydrocarbon, renewable energy and hydrography.
In its Q2 2024 financial statement, the Oslo, Norway-listed vessel operator said it has passed significant milestones in its quest for integrating robotisation into the subsea industry.
It sea-launched Reach Remote 1 and Reach Remote 2 USVs following their construction in northern Europe and completion in Norway, then successfully tested Reach Remote 1 at sea.
Technology qualification programme
Reach Remote 1 is set to begin a technology qualification programme with Norwegian state-run Equinor in Q4 2024.
Reach Subsea is already harnessing the capabilities of two Drix USV’s, Orca 1 and Orca 2, working together to complete a hydrographic survey, the longest-running operation for a Drix globally, which has to date covered 5,858 km2.
“The second quarter of 2024 proved consistent progress in alignment with our strategic objectives,” said Reach Subsea chief executive Jostein Alendal.
“Our journey of expanding Reach is making significant strides within a vibrant market, all while upholding our commitment to profitability and high-quality service.”
His optimism is on the back of a strong outlook for subsea operations in various sectors, as evidenced by Reach’s order backlog and outstanding tender value more than doubling since mid 2023.
“Our commitment to innovation is deeply rooted in our belief that technological developments hold the key to a brighter future,” said Mr Alendal.
“We strive to leverage cutting-edge technologies to create solutions that not only meet the needs of today but also anticipate the challenges of tomorrow. This approach is not a replacement but an enhancement, building upon our existing strengths to drive progress and deliver even greater value.”
The Norwegian company’s order backlog reached Nkr1.6Bn (US$153M) by the end of June 2024, 170% higher than in June 2023. It said the volume of tenders remains significantly high, now reaching Nkr11.0Bn, more than double the amount recorded in Q2 2023.
“Our growing order backlog and significant increase in tender volume clearly demonstrate our robust market position and the strengthened confidence in our future success.” said Mr Alendal.
Reach made revenue of Nkr623M in Q2 2024 and earnings before interest and taxation of Nkr121M. In 2023, it sold a remotely operated vehicle for a net effect of Nkr30M.
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