SeeByte partnership selected by Dstl to research and develop a secure architecture for Mixed Multi-Domain Swarms of Robotic Autonomous Systems

SeeByte, in partnership with Blue Bear, have been awarded a contract by Defence Science and Technology laboratory (Dstl) under the Progeny Maritime Research Framework to research and develop a secure architecture for Mixed Multi-Domain Swarms (MMDS) of Robotic Autonomous Systems (RAS).

The collaborative task forms part of Dstl Maritime Autonomous Systems (MAS) programme which aims to ensure the Royal Navy can securely operate swarms of mixed multi-domain UxVs. Phase 1 of this work will define the MMDS architecture that enables RAS systems to collaborate in swarms of mixed multi-domain vehicles and deliver the mission vignettes. This work employs secure-by-design practises from the outset to ensure the architecture can be implemented within known and manageable levels of cyber risk agreed with the authority.

SeeByte is leading the partnership bringing its knowledge of Maritime Autonomy in Surface and Sub Surface domains and Blue Bear is bringing their knowledge of the Air domain and Air Assurance. Both UK companies are at the forefront of innovation and technology, bringing together an unprecedented level of subject matter expertise in multi-domain swarming autonomy. Phase 1 is a 12-month research programme. Potential follow-on phases will seek to implement, test, and evaluate the MMDS architecture.

Scott Reed, CTO at SeeByte said: “We are immensely proud to be supporting Dstl and the wider UK MoD in the first phase of this exciting project, as we work together with Blue Bear to address some of the most pressing Defence challenges in delivering secure distributed autonomy at scale and mass.”


Martek and OceanWise win project at Dun Laoghaire to improve weather and tide monitoring

Monitoring Specialists OceanWise have won a project with Dun Laoghaire Harbour in Ireland to upgrade and improve its Weather and Tide systems.

Just 7 miles south of Dublin, Dun Laoghaire Harbour is the largest man-made harbour in Western Europe and an important working port and leisure facility. Once the main sea route between Britain and Ireland, Dun Laoghaire is undergoing ongoing changes under the recent transfer of ownership and management to Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council.

Martek and OceanWise will be delivering a project which will improve the entire tide and weather system by upgrading the systems used and installing new sensors and telemetry units (data modems). This upgrade forms part of the ongoing improvements undertaken at the harbour “for the benefit of its citizens” and will ensure the delivery of accurate, reliable, important environmental data to those who need it when they need it, in real-time via a webpage.

The project includes installation of a Gill Instruments Weather station (which measures Wind Speed/Direction, Atmospheric Pressure, Temperature, Humidity, Dew Point and Precipitation) a number of OceanWise ip.buffer smart telemetry modems and a C23 Radar (measuring tide / water levels) and a subscription to the cloud-based Data Platform ‘Port-Log’.

 


Exhibitor list continues to grow as Underwater Intervention joins the International WorkBoat Show

Underwater Intervention, the must-attend event for the entire underwater operations industry announced this Spring that the trade show and conference will be joining the International WorkBoat Show in November.

To date the co-location is proving to be very well received as exhibitors continue to reserve space in the brand-new pavilion. Located directly on the International WorkBoat show floor, and designed as an open contiguous space, the Underwater Intervention Pavilion will offer all the benefits of the high traffic WorkBoat Show along with the distinction of exhibiting alongside companies focused on the subsea market.

“We felt strongly that Underwater Intervention, with its focus on groundbreaking maritime technologies and the latest marine autonomous systems in the subsea and ROV space, would be a powerful addition to the value proposition of the International WorkBoat Show. The rate at which new exhibitors are signing on is really proving our theory out.” said Group Vice President, Bob Callahan of the International WorkBoat Show.

Featuring a pavilion and conference, as well as a dedicated submarine zone with submarines on display right on the show floor, attendees and exhibitors will have the unprecedented opportunity to see a diverse cross section of the commercial marine market all in one place.

Hosted in partnership by the MTS ROV Committee and the Association of Diving Contractors International, Underwater Intervention, Underwater Intervention attracts a global audience of engineers, technical specialists, industry leaders and experts, to share ideas, debate the issues of the moment and to create common agendas for the future of the industry. Underwater Intervention features some of the world’s leading figures within the upstream oil and gas industry coupled with technical sessions covering the most current challenges and up-to-date strategies and technologies.

As of press time the list of exhibiting companies in the Underwater Intervention Pavilion include:
• Kirby Morgan Dive Systems
• DSMS (Diving Safety Management Services)
• Seaside Marine International Drug Co.
• Bay-Tech Industries
• Subsalve USA Corp
• Survey Equipment Services, Inc
• Outland Technology Inc
• Subsea Technologies, Inc.
• Ocean Technology Systems
• Denso North America Inc
• QUIKRETE
• Divers Supply Inc
• Fisk Marine Insurance Intl.
• Reach Systems, Inc
• International Special Risks
• Mactech Inc
• Broco Rankin
• Miko Marine USA
• Umbilicals International
• K-Links Rigging Slings
• MacArtney Inc
• Schaefer Electronics Inc.
• UBC Pile drivers and Divers
• Oxylance
• Marine Solutions, Inc.
• Dead Calm Seas Marine Services
• Innerspace Corporation
• ECHO81
• GLENAIR INC
• Blueye Robotics
• Frontier Precision
• Hydrospace Group
• Coda Octopus
• and Poseidon Robotics

Underwater Intervention started in 1993 when the MTS ROV Committee and the Association of Diving Contractors International joined together to create the world’s premier conference for Commercial Diving, ROV’s, Underwater Survey, AUV’s, and Underwater Construction, Maintenance, and Repair Operations. UI attracts users and purchasers of Underwater Diving and ROV Contractors as well as manufacturers and distributors of equipment used in the ROV, Survey, AUV, and Commercial Diving Industries.

Exhibitors will be showcasing the latest developments in underwater technology, and the Technical Program will highlight current and future developments to support underwater operations.

Registration for both events is expected to open in late summer. Click here for more information about the International Workboat Show and click here for more information about Underwater Intervention.

For media inquiries please email Lauren St. Clair - [email protected]

 


Maritime UK SW announce £34M Clean Maritime Demonstrator Competition on 17 July

Maritime UK SW invite you to a Clean Maritime Demonstration Round 4 Competition Funding Event on the 17th July in Plymouth at Foot Anstey in Plymouth, 10 – 3. There will be space for up to 80 businesses with an option to dial in via MS Teams (although in person attendance is strongly recommended).

Click here to see details of the fund launched 7th July.

Speakers will cover:
- Information on the CMDC competition
- Network Support from KTN
- Support and funding for innovation from Innovate UK Edge
- Business acceleration support
- SW technology studies (two slots have been kept free so please write to [email protected] with a summary of your tech if you would like to be included)

There will be ample networking opportunity and free lunch provided and time for drinks on the Barbican afterwards.

There will also be a national event covering the Clean Maritime Funding on the 12th July 2023 in London and a further series of regional events: SW 17th, NW 18th, Solent 20th and Scotland 31st July.

Following on from the successful first three rounds of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition Fund (CMDC), the organisers would like to welcome stakeholders from across the maritime sector and supporting industries to attend this important event about the next stage of the programme. The events will explain the latest opportunities to engage with the CMDC programme and deliver the transition to clean maritime. All stakeholders across the UK’s clean maritime eco-system are strongly urged to register to attend. We encourage in-person attendance, but there will be an option to join virtually for anyone who is unable to attend in person. Organisations interested in the CMDC can also register to Meeting MoJo, an online platform for organisations interested in innovation to network and connect.

Register here for the SW (or other regional events)

An agenda will be sent out by Thursday 16th July.


15th annual BlueTech Week: Maximizing impact

BlueTech Week has long been known as one of the first conferences in the world that promotes the latest and greatest innovations in sustainable ocean and water technologies. Coming from industry, policy, and academia, the speakers and participants who attend are always fascinating and inspiring. Not to mention that the commercial connections made among attendees have always made coming to this show highly worthwhile.

Based on this, TMA BlueTech are thrilled to announce that the 15th annual BlueTech Week will take place November 13th-16th in San Diego, California. This auspicious anniversary not only gives a reason to celebrate but motivates TMA to put on its best show yet. "Best" to TMA BlueTech means providing an agenda that presents a variety of angles, perspectives, and activities that lead to a multi-faceted, total quality (and highly worthwhile) event.

Click here to find out more and get in touch to be considered for a speaking slot on one of the panels.

 


Teledyne Geospatial announces new Vice President and General Manager, Geoffroy Deltel

Teledyne Geospatial is pleased to announce the appointment of Geoffroy Deltel as Vice President and General Manager. Mr. Deltel will replace Michel Stanier who is moving to an Executive Business Development role within the larger Teledyne Digital Imaging segment with a focus on Geospatial businesses.

Mr. Deltel brings with him a significant background in optical, laser and software technology with an extensive knowledge of the defense sector, and previously served as Chief Technology Officer and Group Executive Vice President for a global provider of imaging and detection solutions. Mr. Deltel’s formidable education includes a MSc in Physics, MSc in Electrical Engineering, Global Executive MBA and Management Certificates from MIT Sloan. He will be based out of the Vaughan (Toronto, Canada) office starting in July.

Teledyne Geospatial unifies the lidar technology and software expertise of both Teledyne Optech and Teledyne CARIS. The new group provides customers with innovative integrated solutions. Offerings include turnkey systems and OEM products, lidar and sonar integrated workflows and a range of systems and solutions that support holistic, precision data collection.


Job Advert: UK Hydrographic Office hiring Geodesy and Tides Specialist

Location: Taunton, South West
Salary: £27,606 - £34,369 pa
Hours: Full time, part time, job share, flexible working
Contract: Permanent

The UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO) is looking for either a Senior Geodesy and Tides Specialist or someone looking to join in a development role as a Geodesy and Tides Specialist.

About the UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO)

The UKHO are a world-leading centre for hydrography, specialising in marine geospatial data to support safe, secure and thriving oceans. It fulfils the UK government’s Safety of Life at Sea obligations and are relied upon by defence users, government and global shipping.

The Geodesy & Tides section of the Terrestrial Science Data Team within the Scientific Analysis Group is a centre of excellence responsible for the provision of advice to UKHO, the wider MOD and the maritime community on matters relating to tides and geodesy.

The role

The UKHO are seeking a Senior Geodesy and Tides Specialist, with knowledge of the principles of tidal theory, tidal analysis, tidal computations or geodetic reference systems, map projections and geodetic theory OR someone with awareness and interest in these specialisms, looking to develop into the role.

The post holder is responsible for the analysis and processing of geodetic and tidal survey data into a range of databases for onward use in products and services. They will also be responsible for updating the geodetic and tides databases and data management processes to meet the requirements of the UKHO, RN and other partners.

About you

At the Senior Specialist level, you will be able to demonstrate and utilise your technical expertise within the geodesy/tides science domain, applying this to the development of processes, continual improvement of existing processes, technologies and tools, and the stewardship of geodetic/tidal data.

If undertaking the Specialist development role, you will have a good understanding of mathematics, experience working with Geospatial Information Systems such as the ESRI suite, QGIS or others and an awareness of the science Geodesy and/or Tides.

A clear development plan will be agreed with your Line Manager, which will enable you to build your skills, knowledge and experience to a level that enables you to undertake the role with confidence and credibility so you gain the skills necessary to become a Senior Specialist.

In return
The UKHO will actively empower you to develop yourself and provide flexible working practices for a healthy work/life balance. You will also benefit from a brand new award winning office, with free use of on site gym, free parking and subsidised canteen.

For a full job description, including the assessment criteria, please click the apply button to be taken to the UKHO website.

Closing date: 11:55 pm on 24th July 2023.

Apply here


Hi-tech USV undergoes sea trials ahead of delivery to US

SEA-KIT International is preparing to deliver on its export deal with American autonomous maritime solutions provider, ThayerMahan.

Connecticut-based ThayerMahan ordered a SEA-KIT X-class Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) last year, having seen the 12-metre design proven on numerous commercial operations around the world.

This latest USV, X107T - the seventh X-class to leave SEA-KIT’s production facility in the East of England, boasts several enhancements and technology developments. These include a new winch system, developed by SEA-KIT to integrate with the company’s proprietary G-SAVI virtual helm station, that will enable deployment of large, towed arrays and sensors down to 3,000 metres. The company has also further developed G-SAVI, taking the technology another step towards becoming a fully classed autopilot system whilst continuing to advance its situational awareness suite.

ThayerMahan plans to use the USV to support introduction of the technology into government service, as well as for its own activities in US and international waters. X107T’s hi-tech specification will stand it in good stead for the levels of scrutiny expected for military and security applications, as well as having a positive impact on the company’s future commercial builds.

Mike Connor, President and CEO of ThayerMahan, said: “The flexible payload on SEA-KIT’s USV design, coupled with its ability to operate near silently for long periods of time, will enable us to continue our leadership stance in remote and autonomous mobile acoustic sensing and sense making. By improving maritime domain awareness efficiencies with this vessel, we ultimately keep people safe while protecting critical infrastructure and the ocean environment.”

The USV is currently undergoing extensive sea trials in the UK before being shipped to the US to commence operations stateside later this summer. The X-class design fits inside a standard shipping container, making it cost-effective to ship overseas.

Ben Simpson, CEO of SEA-KIT, said: “Once X107T is operational, SEA-KIT will have vessels working in the Middle East, Asia, Australia, all over Europe and in the US. This USV will take on quite different tasks and missions to the commercial craft, which demonstrates the versatility of the X-class design as a safe platform for any payload. The UK’s leading position in maritime autonomous systems is clearly drawing international interest, which is testament to everyone involved in the sector here.”

 


MacArtney renews distributor agreement with Teledyne Marine, expanding connectivity solutions

MacArtney recognises the importance of providing the right connector solution for each application and is committed to working closely with suppliers and brands to expand its product portfolio, thus maximising customer benefits and meeting the unique demands of various projects.

With a focus on adding value to the ODI products, MacArtney aims to leverage its existing client base and explore new opportunities.

Covering the ODI range
The products included in this partnership are all Teledyne ODI products, including Electrical, Fibre Optic and Hybrid Connectors and Cables, Penetrators, Field-Installable Termination Assemblies (FITAs), Field Assembled Cable Termination (FACT), and related ancillary products.

The ODI connector range is available through MacArtney operations in Australia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, France, Benelux, Italy, Norway, Sweden, Singapore, the UK and the USA.

Comprehensive connectivity solutions
One of MacArtney's key strengths lies in offering complete connectivity solutions, supporting customers throughout the process, and ensuring seamless integration and efficient project execution.

The connectivity programme includes complete system solutions, project management expertise and moulding & production capabilities. Furthermore, MacArtney's pressure tanks now have up to 1,400 bar capabilities (full ocean depth), adding a 30% safety factor to absolute max water depth enabling them to meet the increasingly demanding requirements of underwater applications.

Strengthened collaboration
The renewed distributor agreement strengthens the long-term MacArtney and Teledyne ODI collaboration in providing advanced connectivity solutions and meeting customers' evolving needs across industries.

MacArtney's devotion to delivering comprehensive solutions and adding value to the Teledyne ODI product further solidifies its position as a trusted partner in the underwater technology industry.

 


Forcys Australia expands with new Sydney office

The release of Australia’s Defence Strategic Review pivots national defence interests toward the Indo-Pacific and places increased interest in the underwater domain. It calls out for new autonomous underwater vehicles to support their mission by highlighting the AUKUS Pillar 2 collaboration and seeks to work in close partnership with industry. It serves as validation for the recent expansion by Forcys Australia: new offices and a new team to work with customers that are already developing innovative underwater autonomous systems.

Backed by over fifty years of experience, Forcys offers the global maritime naval sector remote, autonomous, and networked control capabilities delivering integrated situational awareness to customers in the underwater domain.

Covering a range of maritime operations including asset protection, littoral strike, mine warfare, submarine rescue, and submarine and anti-submarine warfare, Forcys seeks to transform the underwater domain by enabling increasingly distributed and automated operations. This is made possible by integrating and bringing to market world-changing solutions from leading technology partners Chelsea Technologies, EIVA, Sonardyne, Voyis, and Wavefront Systems.

‘This feels great,’ said Sean Leydon, Regional Manager Asia Pacific at Forcys. ‘Although we are taking a relatively small initial step, this is a major milestone for our operations in Australia. And we are setting up in the right location. We are so grateful to the NSW government who supported us in our search. We also want to thank the University of Technology Sydney for their welcome. Innovation is fuelled by partnerships and the UTS Tech Lab enables us to work closer both with our customers and with academia. The lab is turning into a world-class research and development facility. I want our new Australian team to play a part in that.’

‘We are delighted to welcome Forcys Australia as an Industry Partner to the UTS Tech Lab,” said Professor Robert Fitch, (acting) Director UTS Tech Lab. “It’s a clear example of how we are supporting industry partners with the growth and retention of talent. Working alongside innovators in the underwater domain is also a great opportunity for the university to target our research where it is needed such us the AUKUS Pillar 2 Undersea Robotics Autonomous Systems (AURAS) project.”