Fugro has partnered with Sea‑Kit International to develop a range of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) for offshore wind and other marine asset inspections.
The vessels will be designed to deploy remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) for subsea inspections.
The first vessels will be launched before the end of 2020, and a larger USV model is being designed for delivery in 2021. The new range will consume up to 95% less fuel than traditional vessels.
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 that will transform the marine industry.
“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.”
Sea-Kit International managing director Ben Simpson said: “We’re delighted to announce our partnership with Fugro, which will combine our design and build expertise with Fugro’s track record in the marine inspection market.
“Together we can push for better sustainability in the marine industry and lead the way for others to follow.”
Meanwhile Fugro has also built a global network of seven remote operations centres to deliver “fast, safe and efficient” inspection and positioning services, including two new centres in Aberdeen, Scotland, and Leidschendam, the Netherlands, both opened in 2019.
By the end of 2020, Fugro said it will be the first company in the world to provide offshore subsea inspections via USVs and ROVs that are operated from onshore remote operations centres.