Fugro has launched its new generation of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) known as Blue Essence in the European market.
Blue Essence,anoffshorecertified USV withan electricremotelyoperatedvehicle (eROV), will begin its first project in the Netherlands.
During operations, the vesseliscontrolled from an onshore remote operations center (ROC) via a satellite connection and will be used for the inspection of offshore assets, construction support services, and hydrographic and geophysical surveys.
“We welcome this special vessel in our port.It’s the first time a remotely controlled uncrewed vessel will goto the North Seafrom the port of Rotterdamtocarry outa projectwithout any personnel on board,” said René de Vries, harbour master of the Rotterdam Port Authority.
“We are proud that this project will be executed safely due to the careful preparation of all parties involved. We expect the development of digitalisation in the shipping sector will improve the safety and accessibility of the Rotterdam port.”
To remind, Blue Essence completed an entirely remote nearshore survey of three gas pipelines for the Woodside-operated North West Shelf project in Australia in July, which represented the first Blue Essence in service anywhere in the world.
Erik-Jan Bijvank,groupdirectorEuropeandAfrica at Fugro, said:“Recently, Fugro’s first Blue Essence has completed its first remote inspection, in Asia Pacific.I am excited that we now also have this newest generation of USVs available for European clients.Over the coming years, Fugro will further expand its fleet of USVsfor safer, more sustainable solutionsformarineoperations.”
