FLANQ and CMMI sign memorandum of understanding to advance autonomous surface vessel capabilities for Mediterranean Maritime Security
FLANQ, a German-based maritime defence solutions provider, and the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI), a leading research and innovation centre for the blue economy, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development and deployment of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) for maritime security and defence missions across the Mediterranean.
The cooperation will focus on enhancing operational readiness in contested waters through advanced autonomous technologies. The partners will explore joint solutions that leverage FLANQ’s autonomous surface platforms and CMMI’s maritime research expertise to deliver next-generation mission capabilities in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) protection, environmental monitoring, and precision strike.
At the heart of this MoU is a shared commitment to accelerating the transition of autonomous surface vessel concepts into operational reality, tailored to the unique challenges of the Mediterranean theatre. Through joint research, trials, and system integration, FLANQ and CMMI will drive innovations that ensure persistent, scalable, and mission-adaptable maritime security solutions.
Daniel Esser, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer at FLANQ, said: “The Mediterranean remains one of the most dynamic and strategically vital regions in the world. By joining forces with CMMI, we can deliver autonomous maritime capabilities that combine scientific excellence with operational agility—strengthening security, resilience, and situational awareness for Cyprus and her regional partners.”
Zacharias Siokouros, CMMI’s Chief Executive Officer added: “This MoU represents a significant milestone for CMMI and for Cyprus. Partnering with FLANQ allows us to bridge cutting-edge maritime science with real-world defence applications, supporting both regional stability and sustainable ocean stewardship.”
Greensea IQ and Ocean Power Technologies announce strategic collaboration to advance autonomous hull maintenance
Greensea IQ and Ocean Power Technologies (OPT) have entered into a strategic collaboration to integrate Greensea IQ’s EverClean robotic hull grooming system with OPT’s WAM-V® Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) platform. The joint effort aims to develop a fully autonomous launch and recovery system to enable more efficient and environmentally responsible hull maintenance operations.
The collaboration will pair the proven performance of Greensea IQ’s EverClean robot—an in-water system that proactively removes biofouling from vessel hulls—with OPT’s modular and autonomous WAM-V® surface vehicles. Together, the companies will develop and test a system that can operate independently of traditional support vessels, unlocking new opportunities for persistent hull maintenance in commercial and defense markets.
“This collaboration with OPT accelerates our vision for a fully autonomous hull maintenance solution,” said John Dunn, Chief Operating Officer at Greensea IQ. “By combining EverClean with WAM-V®, we’re building the foundation for scalable, unmanned operations that reduce fuel costs, improve vessel performance, and eliminate the need for toxic coatings.”
The joint effort will focus initially on system design, integration, and prototype testing, with the goal of commercial deployment across key maritime sectors, including maritime, energy, defense, and scientific research.
“Greensea IQ’s EverClean technology is a natural complement to our WAM-V USVs,” said Jeremiah Mendez, Vice President of Operations at Ocean Power Technologies. “Together, we are advancing a solution that enhances vessel efficiency and promotes cleaner oceans through robotic innovation.”
This collaboration underscores the growing demand for sustainable, autonomous technologies that address critical challenges in maritime operations.
Nortek launches Generation 2 Vector velocimeter
Nortek is excited to announce the Generation 2 version of the Vector velocimeter is now available. The Generation 2 Vector is designed for researchers interested in gathering high-resolution current measurements and capturing turbulent flow. The Generation 2 version offers a smaller form factor, lower power consumption, and new features including an echosounder mode.
Smaller form factor, greater flexibility
Nortek’s legacy Vector was introduced in 1999. The Generation 2 version has several key upgrades in both design and performance from the legacy version, designed with flexibility in mind. Its much smaller form factor enables deployments in areas previously inaccessible to the Vector, and compatibility with multiple battery canister options removes the need for internal batteries and allows users to choose a power solution appropriate for their application.
Additionally, the Generation 2 Vector includes an interface box, allowing the instrument to communicate via both Ethernet and serial using a single cable. Finally, following Nortek’s tradition, the Generation 2 Vector offers an LED which blinks at the user-defined sampling rate while collecting data, providing peace of mind during deployment.
Field-tested performance made possible by modern upgrades
Modern electronics and broadband processing improve the instrument’s precision for a given power consumption, making longer deployments possible on the same amount of battery power.
A short-range echosounder has also been added, enabling users to image structures in the water column. This is especially useful to those investigating sediment transport or changes in bottom morphology.
Enabling the next generation of high-resolution current measurement
The Generation 2 Vector opens doors for oceanographers and marine researchers looking to capture turbulence, measure currents in hard-to-access environments, or operating in large flumes. Contact Nortek with any questions about the capabilities of the Generation 2 Vector velocimeter.
Learn more at www.nortekgroup.com
Saab’s 600th Seaeye Falcon expands DISA International fleet
Saab UK announces the delivery of its 600th Seaeye Falcon subsea vehicle produced in Fareham, UK. This specific Falcon was built for international subsea specialist DISA International. The latest addition joins DISA’s growing fleet of Saab Seaeye vehicles and contributes to DISA’s high-performance inspection and survey operations across Europe.
The newly delivered Falcon is already at work supporting offshore wind energy operations in Germany, where it is conducting balance of plant inspections and general visual inspections (GVI). The vehicle will soon be deployed to further projects in the Netherlands and Belgium, playing a key role in offshore inspections and measurement tasks.
This latest purchase brings DISA’s fleet of Saab Seaeye vehicles to eight, including the Panther XT Plus, Cougar, Lynx and multiple Falcons.
The Falcon’s versatility extends beyond offshore wind. DISA routinely deploys its Falcons for harbour inspections, near-shore structural surveys, and RAC (Remote Area Compliance) inspections – demonstrating the vehicle’s adaptability in a variety of working environments.
Jon Robertson, Managing Director at Saab Seaeye, said
“DISA International’s decision to continue investing in the Seaeye Falcon is a testament to the trust our customers place in the reliability, performance and flexibility of our systems. Delivering our 600th Falcon to a long-term partner like DISA International is a suitable milestone in the manufacturing of British designed and built subsea vehicles.”
Didier De Graaff, Managing Director at DISA International, said:
“The Falcon is our go-to vehicle for operations from smaller vessels. It’s compact, easy to set up, and can be launched with an onboard crane, making it ideal for rapid mobilisation. Performance-wise, we’ve always been very satisfied.”
DISA International has significantly expanded its subsea vehicle capabilities over the past six years. The addition of this 600th Falcon highlights both the organisation’s growth and the strong partnership between the two companies.
OEG expands US footprint through acquisition of Trinity Rental Services
Transaction more than doubles regional fleet & enhances US capabilities
OEG is pleased to announce the strategic expansion of its US footprint and capabilities through the acquisition of Trinity Rental Services (TRS), and its vertically integrated affiliates. The acquisition strengthens the firm’s market position, further enhancing its capabilities and increasing its fleet availability and choice to support customers in the region.
Founded in 2013, TRS has grown through acquisition and investment to become a leading provider in oil and gas offshore container rentals in the Gulf of Mexico. Headquartered in Lafayette, Louisiana, the company provides an extensive fleet of DNV and SEPCO-certified offshore baskets, cargo carrying units, paint lockers, and more. Beyond rentals, TRS also provides mechanical integrity services and fabric maintenance solutions to ensure offshore assets remain compliant, reliable, and operational.
The TRS workforce of around 80 highly skilled employees are all joining OEG and will be integrated under the OEG brand in a phased approach over the next 18 months.
Transaction highlights
Acquisition more than doubles OEG’s regional sales with TRS achieving FY24 revenue of $53 million
Enhances OEG’s capabilities, fleet capacity and choice to customers in the Gulf of America with the ability to support operators and tier-1 customers
Expands US footprint through doubling of regional fleet
Enhances regional capabilities with the addition of ~80 highly experienced personnel and a well maintained, young fleet of ~5,600 cargo carrying units (CCUs)
Takes OEG’s total number of CCUs worldwide to over 80,000
Provides a new service not currently offered by OEG through the addition of an experienced team of API inspectors, providing specialist integrity and inspection services that will also complement and enhance OEG’s offshore wind offering
Supports OEG’s long term commitment to develop the leading offering in CCUs in each of its global regions and to continue to scale in core markets offering strong growth potential
Aligns with the ongoing development of OEG’s offshore wind offering where the company continues to review new acquisition opportunities
The acquisition of TRS represents the first material transaction undertaken by OEG following the recent completion of its acquisition by Apollo for an implied headline valuation of more than $1 billion.
OEG’s CEO John Heiton, said: “This important acquisition strengthens our footprint in the US and underscores our belief that our specialist oil and gas services will remain strong for decades to come. As the energy transition progresses, this strategic region has rapidly become a key market for us, supporting long-term growth and resilience.
“Following the recent award of a material cargo logistics equipment and services contract for a major international operator in North America, this latest development further diversifies and strengthens our regional capabilities. It adds talent, fleet capability, and assets further building our offering in a robust, long-term market where we see significant potential. We also gain strong synergies from TRS’s high-quality well-invested and maintained asset fleet. I look forward to welcoming our new US colleagues and emphasizing to our regional stakeholders the benefits of our increased scale, broader expertise and expanded offering.”
Garett Gauthier, OEG’s Regional Director (Americas), said: “We are delighted to welcome the TRS team to OEG. Both companies share strong values and a relentless commitment to quality, service, innovation and operational excellence, making this an excellent strategic fit as we leverage the best of both businesses.
“For our customers, this means access to the largest, youngest and most comprehensive range of CCUs, associated equipment and services in the region. We remain committed to ongoing growth and investment in this space to stay ahead of customer expectations and deliver value as needs evolve.”
Jonathan Foreman, Owner at TRS, said: “Our companies were built on relationships, responsiveness, and a deep commitment to customer care. We’re incredibly proud of the businesses we’ve grown, the people behind them, and the impacts we’ve made on our communities across South Louisiana. Partnering with OEG is a meaningful next chapter – one that honors where we started, while opening the door to greater, global opportunities for our companies and for our team.”
BIO-UV GROUP helps BWTS operators remain D2 compliant with new performance arrangement
Leading water treatment specialist BIO-UV Group has introduced a new Compliancy & Performance Agreement (C&P Agreement) solution for shipmanagers looking to ensure their BIO-SEA ballast water treatment systems remain regulatory compliant and operationally tip-top.
The new service agreement aims to address the challenges ship operators face maintaining regulatory compliance amid increasingly stringent ballast water management inspection regimes and operational demands on ship crews.
With over 30% of vessels failing D-2 compliance tests despite having installed type-approved systems, the C&P Agreement provides a vital framework for proactive system maintenance and support.
Too many shipowners still see ballast water treatment systems as ‘install-and-forget’ solutions,” said Jean Philippe Picard de Muller, who heads up BIO-UV Group’s Service Division. “In reality, ballast water treatment systems require continuous maintenance and well-trained crews to operate them effectively. Neglecting these essentials not only threatens compliance but also risks damaging marine ecosystems.”
BIO-UV Group says that key maintenance procedures, such as air and water filter cleaning, UV lamp replacement, and sensor calibration, are often overlooked. Even fully operational systems can fail if crew members are not properly trained to manage daily checks or identify irregularities such as pressure drops or unusual noises.
“Routine checks are essential,” J.P Picard de Muller said. “Crews need to verify valves are in the correct position, and any condensation is drained.
"Our Compliancy & Performance Agreement is the first line of defence against compliance failure by ensuring ship operators receive the technical support and spare parts they need to keep their BIO-SEA systems performing efficiently, in top condition.”
The C&P Agreement includes an annual onboard visit by BIO-UV Group’s expert technicians, who perform a thorough inspection and calibration of critical system components, including sensors and flow meters. The agreement also covers crew demonstrations and basic onboard training to reinforce operational confidence. Ship operators also benefit from special pricing on essential spare parts and additional services.
“This helps operators stockpile critical components and avoids costly delays linked to supply chain uncertainties or third-party dependencies,” said J.P Picard de Muller. “There is also an option for system maintenance during dry-dock periods allowing owners to align system upgrades with planned vessel downtime.”
For a fixed yearly fee per vessel, shipowners receive proactive annual onboard visits, calibration of critical sensors, verification of system functions, inventory checks, and crew training.
IMO data reveals that 77% of shipowners report operational issues with their BWMS, citing crew knowledge gaps as a leading cause, while Port State Control officers are increasingly questioning crews on system operation and compliance procedures.
Charlène Ceresola, BWT Project Manager at BIO-UV Group advised that if a crew can’t demonstrate competence, even a fully functional system may not pass inspection. “Shipowners do need to prioritise continuous training, covering not only system operation but also troubleshooting and emergency procedures,” she said.
Indeed, port authorities have increased inspections to enforce the D-2 discharge standard, with reports indicating more than 30% of ships failing D-2 compliance inspections, often due to operational errors such as mixing treated and untreated water, regrowth of organisms, and inconsistent system use.
Regulators are also tightening administrative requirements. Nearly 60% of ballast water-related deficiencies stem from poor record-keeping.
In February 2025, updated IMO guidelines BWM.2/Circ.80/Rev.1 entered into force providing clarity with examples of entries and mandating more detailed records of all ballasting and deballasting operations, including system treatment status, actions in challenging water conditions and any non-compliant discharges.
“A well-maintained record book is as important as a well-maintained system,” Charlène Ceresola stressed. “Shipowners must audit documentation regularly to avoid detentions.”
Adding to the complexity, some systems installed years ago now face sustainability challenges.
“When manufacturers exit the market, shipowners risk being left without spare parts, software updates, or technical support,” said Charlène Ceresola. “This jeopardises compliance even if the system was type-approved at the time of installation.”
BIO-UV Group advises shipowners to stockpile essential spare parts, establish support agreements with OEM, and consider system updates or upgrades during dry-dock periods.
“Non-compliance can lead to ship detentions, substantial fines, and reputational damage. Meeting ballast water regulations is not just about ticking boxes,” Charlène Ceresola said. “Shipowners must act now to ensure their systems are reliable, their crews are trained, and their documentation is complete.”
Project Management for Marine Survey Course Returns in September
When we first teamed up with Suffolk Survey & Subsea Services Ltd (S4) earlier this year, our aim was simple: to offer training that genuinely makes a difference. Following the success of our first course in February, we’re pleased to announce that it will return to Birmingham in September 2025.
The Project Management for Marine Survey course isn’t just another training session. It’s a practical opportunity to step away from day-to-day operations, gain new insights, and strengthen the skills that matter offshore. Whether you’re already managing projects or preparing to take the next step, this course provides an opportunity for reflection, connection, and growth, leaving you feeling confident and well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
Location: Somerset House, 37 Temple Street, Birmingham B2 5DP
Dates: 16–18 September 2025
Cost: £849 (excluding travel and accommodation)
Bookings and enquiries: [email protected]
Where It All Began
In February 2025, eleven professionals joined us from across the offshore industry. Each participant brought a wealth of experience and left with new knowledge, renewed confidence, and a clearer sense of direction.
Led by Arron Burrows, Director at S4 and a highly respected figure in the sector, the course offers a unique opportunity to learn from someone with decades of hands-on experience in offshore survey and project delivery. With over 38 years of experience in hydrographic survey, inspection, telecoms, renewables, and more, Arron’s approach is grounded, straightforward, and informed by years of working offshore.
“Arron is very approachable and personable,” said Chris Cain, one of our attendees. “A great few days and lots to take away and apply to my career.” This positive feedback from past attendees is a testament to the quality and value of the course, leaving you reassured and confident in your decision to join us.
For Phillip Wilding, the course offered direction and momentum: “The content clearly and concisely bridged experiences from offshore projects, enabling me to continue personal development into offshore PM roles. I would highly recommend it.”
What You’ll Learn
Returning to Somerset House in central Birmingham, this three-day course will cover essential project management topics, including:
- Communication and professionalism
- Project planning, resourcing, and cost control
- Client liaison and document management
- Risk assessments, PRINCE2 principles, and contract awareness
The sessions combine structure with flexibility. There’s space to discuss, question, and share your own experiences. The focus is always on what’s useful with tools you can take back and use straight away.
“It felt more like a conversation than a lecture,” one participant said. “There was room to speak openly and learn from others in the room.”
As with our previous course, it won’t just be about the classroom. On Wednesday evening, we’re planning an informal networking and entertainment event in the Flight Club as part of the experience, providing participants with an opportunity to connect, share ideas, and unwind in a relaxed setting. It’s a valuable opportunity to build industry relationships that last well beyond the course itself.
Why We’re Running It Again
Because there’s real value in this kind of learning—practical, focused, and grounded in the offshore environment, the feedback from February’s course was overwhelmingly positive. It was clear that more professionals are seeking training that addresses the realities of working offshore.
Anthony Williams, Technical Manager at Elevate Offshore, shared his perspective on the company’s commitment to training: “At Elevate Offshore, we firmly believe that success in the offshore sector hinges on cultivating knowledge, skills, and expertise. We dedicate ourselves to helping our people and industry contractors develop through high-quality training and meaningful career growth opportunities. By offering courses like this, we ensure that offshore professionals have access to the training they need to advance their careers and thrive in an ever-evolving industry.”
To reserve your place or learn more, contact [email protected]
Training course can help UK become leader in environmental monitoring
Robotics scientists who say the UK could become a global leader in environmental monitoring by embracing technology already available have launched a new course to train others.
The Scientific Robotics Academy, based at the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) in Oban and part-funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, will demonstrate the capabilities of a range of robotics systems during its training course between 3rd – 5th September.
The course, Environmental Monitoring using Multi-Platform Technology, is designed to benefit those with a responsibility for environmental monitoring, including landowners, planners, NGOs and third sector organisations and researchers.
SAMS robotics lead Dr Phil Anderson said: “Scotland, and the wider UK is ideally placed, in terms of location and technology readiness, to become the global leader in environmental monitoring.
“The Scientific Robotics Academy is pioneering marine robotics education and innovation to prepare the next generation of users of autonomous platforms. We also exist to engage current engineers in conversations about robotics platform and sensor needs and challenges of the marine science and environmental management community.
“On the course, users will learn about the preparation and application of robotic platforms and sensor technology to monitor and manage rapidly changing environments. The way we monitor the environment is changing too and we want to make sure the people with this very important role have the skills they need.”
The hands-on training will be delivered by experts in their field and provide a comprehensive overview of environmental monitoring spanning terrestrial, coastal and marine activities.
The course will cover practical elements from mission planning and legislative requirements to sensor types and data processing.
Argyll and Bute Council has supported the development of the Scientific Robotics Academy through access to the Shared Prosperity Fund.
Councillor Math Campbell-Sturgess, Argyll and Bute Council’s Policy Lead for Business Development, said: "UKSPF funding has been invaluable in enabling us to deliver additional support for local businesses, people and skills and further investment in our communities.
“Argyll and Bute is ideally located to position Scotland as a pioneering force for innovation through robotics testing and training. Innovation partnerships, such as Limosaero's visit to SAMS to test sensors on their solar powered drone at Oban Airport, has further demonstrated the growing capability of technology to improve connectivity with remote island communities, and deliver time- and cost-savings for users.
“Bridging the gap between those that develop these advancing technologies and the end users has never been more important, and the robotics academy is the perfect enabler.”
The three-day course, Environmental Monitoring using Multi-Platform Technology, has been CPD-recognised by IMarEST – the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology. For more information on the upcoming course and to apply for a place, see: Courses — Scottish Association for Marine Science, Oban UK
As well as offering additional person discounts for multiple places purchased, thanks to the generous support of BlueFloat Energy | Nadara Partnership, there are also six part-sponsored places on the course. Details for this can also be found on the course webpage (https://www.sams.ac.uk/robotics/academy/sponsored-places/).
Greensea IQ Appoints Rigel SrL as Exclusive Bayonet Representative for Italy
Greensea IQ, a leader in subsea robotics and autonomous systems, is pleased to announce the appointment of Rigel SrL as its exclusive sales representative in Italy for the Bayonet line of Autonomous Underwater Ground Vehicles (AUGVs).
Based in Rome, Rigel SrL brings more than 50 years of experience delivering advanced electronics, robotics, and automation systems to Italy’s maritime, defense, and industrial sectors. This partnership marks an important step in expanding Greensea IQ’s presence in Europe and introducing its Bayonet surf-zone and nearshore robotics solutions to the Italian market.
“Rigel SrL has earned a strong reputation as a trusted provider of advanced technologies to government and commercial customers in Italy,” said Rob Howard, Chief Growth Officer of Greensea IQ. “We’re proud to partner with a company that shares our commitment to innovation, reliability, and mission success. With Rigel, we’re confident the Bayonet product line will find a strong foothold in one of Europe’s most dynamic maritime regions.”
The Bayonet AUGV family is designed specifically for operations in the surf zone and shallow water, enabling autonomous seabed mobility for applications such as mine countermeasures (MCM), UXO detection, coastal surveys, payload delivery, and amphibious reconnaissance. Built on Greensea IQ’s robust, open architecture platform, the Bayonet systems deliver true autonomy, precise navigation, and modular payload integration.
“It’s a privilege to bring Greensea IQ and their groundbreaking Bayonet technology to the Italian market,” said Emanuele Orlandi, Business Development Director at Rigel Srl. “With Italy’s extensive coastline and increasing focus on maritime security, environmental monitoring, and subsea innovation, there’s a clear need for agile, field-proven solutions like Bayonet. We’re excited to drive forward deployments that raise the bar for safety, reliability, and operational excellence in complex nearshore domains.”
The agreement reinforces Greensea IQ’s commitment to strengthening its global reach by aligning with experienced regional partners who understand the unique operational challenges and opportunities of their local markets.
Are you passionate about the marine environment and eager to work with advanced technology?
Role: Metocean Technician
Location: Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin, Ireland
Salary: Competitive, based on experience
Join Our Team as a Metocean Technician!
TechWorks Marine is a leader in metocean solutions, supporting key projects in renewable energy, oil & gas, and marine infrastructure. We’re looking for a practical, detail-oriented individual to join our growing team.
As a Metocean Technician, you will play a vital role in our operations. Your responsibilities will include:
· Equipment Preparation: Assembling, configuring, and testing metocean instruments and sensors before deployment.
· Equipment Maintenance: Conducting regular maintenance, including organising and performing calibrations, and servicing all metocean equipment to ensure optimal performance.
· Deploying and Recovering Equipment: Installing, recovering, and servicing oceanographic and meteorological equipment (e.g., ADCPs, wave buoys, weather stations).
· Troubleshooting: Diagnosing and repairing equipment issues both onshore and offshore.
· Data Management: Collecting, processing, and performing quality control on metocean data.
· Reporting: Preparing clear technical reports and data summaries.
· Fieldwork: Participating in offshore campaigns and other field activities.
· Safety First: Ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards.
What We’re Looking For
· Experience: Previous experience with metocean equipment and data acquisition systems is essential.
· Education: A degree or diploma in Oceanography, Marine Science, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience).
· Technical Skills: Strong problem-solving abilities and comfort with IT tools for data handling.
· Adaptability: Willingness to work offshore, travel, and adapt to varying schedules.
· Team Player: Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
· Certification: Valid offshore survival and medical certificates (or willingness to obtain).
Why Join TechWorks Marine?
· Impactful Work: Contribute to significant projects in critical marine sectors.
· Growth: Opportunities for professional development and training.
· Dynamic Environment: Work in a challenging and rewarding field, with a supportive team.
Ready to apply? Please send your CV and a brief cover letter to [email protected] by 15th August 2025.
We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applications from all qualified individuals eligible to work in the European Union.