Kongsberg Maritime is set to deliver a new series of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) based on their innovative UT5208 design, intended for remote and autonomous offshore operations. This agreement comes on the heels of the successful deployments of REACH REMOTE 1 and 2, with the former recently achieving recognition as “Ship of the Year 2024” at the SMM maritime exhibition for its contributions to sustainable maritime practices. The arrangement marks a departure from traditional shipbuilding methods, allowing Kongsberg to provide full shipbuilding contracts while subcontracting construction to a shipyard, thereby ensuring integration of their advanced systems and maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency.
Lisa Edvardsen Haugan, President of Kongsberg Maritime, emphasized that the contract underscores increasing industry confidence in remote technologies. The innovative REACH REMOTE concept not only illustrates the viability of remote operations but is also a pivotal step towards transforming offshore activities. Ronny Pål Kvalsvik, VP Sales Ship Design, reinforced the significance of the partnership with REACH Subsea, highlighting their commitment to sustainable and efficient maritime solutions.
The vessels represent part of a broader industry trend toward enhanced autonomous operations, reflecting significant Norwegian innovation aimed at minimizing environmental impacts while boosting operational capabilities. REACH Subsea has plans for additional vessels under the REACH REMOTE program, which aims to integrate ocean robotics into subsea operations effectively. Jostein Alendal, CEO of REACH Subsea, pointed out that the program is central to their strategy of redefining subsea operations, combining expertise in subsea technology with Kongsberg’s maritime capabilities to provide safer and more sustainable solutions.
The scope of Kongsberg Maritime’s supply is extensive, featuring a comprehensive suite of integrated technologies, including advanced automation, navigation systems, situational awareness tools, and equipment for remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). The collaboration extends to ship design, project management, and telecommunication frameworks, which enable effective ship-to-shore connectivity.
Moreover, Massterly, a joint venture between Kongsberg and Wilhelmsen, will oversee the remote navigation and operation of these vessels from dedicated Remote Vessel Operations Centers, while REACH Subsea will handle the execution of subsea missions. This synergy promises a significant enhancement in the safety and efficiency of subsea services, as operations will be managed from land-based control centers using a remote architecture developed in collaboration with clients. Overall, the initiative marks a crucial advance in maritime innovation, promising a future where autonomous systems play an integral role in subsea operations.
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