Kongsberg Maritime Delivers First REACH REMOTE USV For Underwater Surveys

Kongsberg Maritime has successfully delivered the REACH REMOTE 1, a 24-meter unmanned surface vessel (USV) designed to revolutionise offshore operations.

The REACH REMOTE 1 vessel is equipped with the latest technology from KONGSBERG. After completing intensive sea trials, the vessel is ready for its first mission, by conducting underwater surveys off the coast of Haugesund, Norway.

According to Bjørg Mathisen Døving, Vice President of Reach Remote at REACH SUBSEA, the REACH REMOTE 1 project is an extraordinary achievement, made possible by the combined expertise of Kongsberg Maritime, Reach Subsea, and Massterly.

“Reach Remote brings together unique expertise to shape the future of uncrewed offshore operations,” Døving said. “We are excited to see the REACH REMOTE 1 set sail and begin its first mission.”

Kongsberg Maritime, the primary contractor for the REACH REMOTE 1 project, was responsible for vessel design, managing the construction process, supply chain coordination, systems integration, and commissioning.

Lisa Edvardsen Haugan, President of Kongsberg Maritime, expressed her pride in the project’s success. “What began as a visionary idea is now a reality,” Haugan said. “The REACH REMOTE 1 is a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of maritime technology, and we are proud to partner with REACH SUBSEA, Massterly, and Trosvik Maritime on this pioneering project.”

During its sea trials, the REACH REMOTE 1 was closely monitored and controlled from a temporary, mobile Remote Operations Centre (ROC) located aboard the support vessel Avant.

The Avant stayed close to the USV throughout the trials, ensuring that operations were safe and closely managed. Once the vessel begins its pilot operations, Massterly, a joint venture between Kongsberg Maritime and Wilhelmsen, will control the USV from a land-based ROC in Horten, Norway.

A key feature of the REACH REMOTE 1 is its ability to operate without a crew. It is controlled remotely from the ROC, which offers several benefits, including reduced operating costs, increased safety, and lower emissions compared to using traditional crewed vessels for similar tasks.

Kongsberg Maritime incorporated proven technology into its design to ensure the vessel’s safety and reliability. The company worked alongside Det Norske Veritas (DNV) and the Norwegian Maritime Authority to meet the regulatory challenges associated with uncrewed vessels.

Kongsberg Maritime plans to introduce more remote and autonomous functionality to the vessel, allowing it to perform more complex tasks.

Reference: Kongsberg Maritime

Source: Maritime Shipping News