ACUA Ocean has received support from the European Space Agency (ESA) and the UK Space Agency to advance a new robotic system for subsea inspection. The project aims to make offshore work safer and more efficient through satellite-enabled uncrewed operations.
ACUA Ocean has secured a contract with the European Space Agency, supported by the UK Space Agency, to further develop its subsea inspection robotics system. The project will advance the company’s Pioneer-class uncrewed surface vessel, designed to launch and recover remotely operated underwater vehicles for offshore work.
The approach, known as “nested robotics,” involves one robot deploying another. It is intended to expand how autonomous systems operate in offshore wind inspection, subsea cable maintenance, and ocean research. Using satellite communications and the Global Navigation Satellite System, the technology enables Beyond Visual Line of Sight operations, allowing vessels to be controlled remotely while sending real-time data back to shore.
“This contract marks a significant milestone for ACUA Ocean,” said Neil Tinmouth, Chief Executive Officer at ACUA Ocean. “By combining subsea robotics with ACUA’s inherently stable uncrewed surface vehicle, with global, satellite-enabled control, we can provide safer, cleaner, and more cost-effective access to subsea inspection across multiple sectors.”
The Pioneer system uses network bonding technology that merges all available communication links into one, maintaining command and control even when one connection weakens. This ensures constant communication between the uncrewed vessel and its underwater unit.
Shuxiu Zhang, Head of Space Applications and Data at the UK Space Agency, said the project reflects the growing role of space technology in maritime operations. “This project demonstrates how space-enabled technologies, such as satellite communications and GNSS, can transform maritime operations and deliver cross-sector impact. By supporting ACUA Ocean’s nested robotics system, we’re advancing high-impact applications that enhance safety, reduce emissions, and reinforce UK leadership in autonomous systems across maritime and aerospace,” she said.
The contract follows ACUA Ocean’s recent certification from the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency, which approved the Pioneer as the first remotely operated vessel under the Workboat Code Edition 3. The company expects this support to help bring its system closer to commercial use, strengthening the UK’s position in the fast-growing field of autonomous maritime technology.
