Mission accomplished for the world's first HUGIN Endurance
Kongsberg Discovery is pleased to announce that the first production system of its revolutionary long-range Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) HUGIN Endurance has completed factory acceptance testing.
Sea trials for the first production unit began in September 2023, and over the last months, the Kongsberg Discovery Uncrewed Platforms team has put HUGIN Endurance through its paces, verifying and refining all system capabilities. Sea trials culminated in March 2024 with a successful demonstration of the AUV capabilities to the customer. President Martin Wien Fjell is immensely proud of the great effort of the organisation.
"I am very proud of the team's hard work, and we are achieving yet another significant milestone in the history of our company. The project has been delivered in record time, and a huge thank you to everybody who has contributed to this success. This is also an excellent way to celebrate our first anniversary as Kongsberg Discovery. The customer is also pleased and genuinely impressed by the work accomplished by Kongsberg Discovery," he stated.
Limitless Possibilities
Fjell says that the HUGIN Endurance program has attracted significant interest both from the defence sector and commercial operators.
“Endurance can accommodate whatever kind of payload a customer wants, whether for seabed mapping or inspection, oceanography, continuous surveys of offshore wind parks, or as a surveillance tool for critical subsea infrastructure or changes in ecosystems. To achieve the first system delivery is a significant milestone, and we will continue to develop additional capabilities. HUGIN Endurance enters the market as a game-changer”, he says.
Unmatched Capability
HUGIN Endurance, launched in 2021, is the largest member of Kongsberg Discovery’s HUGIN family of AUVs. The system can come equipped with a wide array of standard sensors. This includes a wide-swath high-resolution synthetic aperture sonar (HISAS 1032 Dual RX), multibeam echo sounder (EM 2040 MkII), sub-bottom profiling system, colour camera, laser profiler, magnetometer and environmental sensors collecting data such as conductivity, temperature, sound speed, methane, and CO2 and O2 concentration.
In addition, the vehicle includes a large configurable volume that can be used to carry a mixture of batteries and custom payloads as needed. The system is designed to allow autonomous operations directly from shore, and with a full complement of batteries, it can spend up to 15 days at sea, traveling up to 2200 km (1200 nm).
While the new AUV incorporates many of the industry-leading capabilities found in previous HUGIN vehicles, to enable long-term unsupported missions, new advancements had to be made, including greater redundancy, a new autonomous mission management system, greater situational awareness, and the ability to deal with a wide range of varying water density.
Greensea IQ and VideoRay announce transformative five-year, multi-million dollar partnership to advance ROV user experience
Greensea IQ, a pioneer in marine technology development, and VideoRay, a global leader in underwater robotics, have announced the extension of its strategic partnership. The renewed five-year, multi-million dollar agreement underscores both companies' dedication to improving the performance and dependability of their products, as well as fostering innovation within the inspection class ROV sector.
Under this collaboration, Greensea IQ and VideoRay will leverage its combined expertise and apply dedicated resources to develop industry-leading systems that promise to deliver unparalleled value and reliability to customers worldwide. The companies have already begun work on the development of Professional Workspace software for VideoRay’s Ally, the newest member of their Mission Specialist family.
"The Master Agreement between Greensea IQ and VideoRay illustrates the significant commitment both companies are making to our US Navy and defense customers. This Agreement ensures our customers will have constant and stable access to the most advanced remote undersea robotics platform available. This Agreement removes the blockages of day-to-day operations and allows us to focus on technology advancement and customer satisfaction while maintaining our collaborative position as a world leader in ROV solutions." said Ben Kinnaman, CEO, of Greensea IQ.
This strategic alliance is more than a mere collaboration; it represents a shared vision for the future. By combining Greensea IQ's leading technology platform with VideoRay's leading Mission Specialist series ROVs, the partnership is set to introduce breakthrough solutions that address the current and future needs of subsea defense and commercial customers.
"With our long-standing partnership, this new deal ensures our capability to address the long-term software demands of our defense customers while harnessing emerging technological advancements to bolster our Mission Specialist capabilities. Ultimately, all our customers stand to gain from this arrangement," stated Chris Gibson, CEO of VideoRay.
Customers of VideoRay and Greensea IQ can expect advanced products, enhanced services, and innovative solutions designed to meet the evolving demands of the subsea industry. This partnership reaffirms both companies’ commitment to excellence, customer satisfaction, and leading the way in technological innovation.
Dr. Kristine Beran joins Teledyne Marine’s sales team
Teledyne Marine is pleased to announce that Dr. Kristine Beran has joined the organisation in the role of Sales Manager for Teledyne Marine's Instruments and Imaging technology verticals. Based remote in Seattle, Kristine's focus will be to serve customers in the ocean science and academic community in the United States.
Kristine began her career within the international fisheries and aquaculture industry, serving in progressive roles in research, operations, management, and sales at a global scale. Kristine brings academic rigor, field experience, and evidence-based research to serve Teledyne Marine's extensive customer base in oceanographic research and scientific markets.
William Egan, Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing, shares: “We are pleased to welcome Kristine to the Teledyne Marine Sales team and look forward to her bringing her wealth of experience in Sales and Oceanography, to develop our customer experience to the next level.”
“Joining Teledyne Marine is, for me, an exciting opportunity to bring our innovative, solution-oriented products to benefit the ocean science community", adds Kristine.
EvoLogics debuts the new Diver Navigation system
EvoLogics is pleased to announce the official release of its new acoustic navigation system for divers.
The innovative system facilitates map-based navigation for divers on a mission, offering the flexibility of seamless two-way communication between divers and the dive supervision team, as well as pre-mission and real-time waypoint setup.
Much like texting on a smartphone, the system allows a team of divers to exchange short messages with each other and the surface, while also providing real-time tracking of each other’s positions. Map waypoints can be added before or even during the mission to coordinate operations, and mark discovered objects or infrastructure for further investigation.
With the new system, EvoLogics aims to streamline complex underwater tasks such as search and rescue, salvage operations, recovery efforts, and cleanup operations. The Diver Navigation system enhances coordination, improves task management, and promotes efficient information sharing, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of diver operations.
System components
The battery-powered diver tracker unit is compatible with all EvoLogics 18/34 modems and systems. It comes with mounts to attach it either on the diver’s scuba tank or to most of the common underwater scooters. The molded unibody design of the tracker ensures broad compatibility with various diving equipment and facilitates straightforward installation.
The diver console is a compact wrist tablet that connects to the tracker modem by cable. It provides the diver access to the SiNAPS user interface - EvoLogics positioning software visualizing the map of the current operations area, the positions of all divers and the support vessel, and running the text chat tool.
At the surface, the USBL buoy acts as the acoustic node for operations. This device, a mono-unit with a USBL antenna, an integrated PC running SiNAPS positioning software, a dual-antenna GNSS receiver, and a WiFi access point, is designed for mobile scenarios. The Buoy ensures rapid setup and fully supports bidirectional diver tracking and message exchange.
The USBL buoy calculates diver positions using acoustic signals and displays them in the SiNAPS interface for the support team. This capability allows the surface team to monitor diver positions, communicate messages, and adjust mission waypoints as needed. Bidirectional acoustic links ensure that all mission divers have access to tracker positions.
Following extensive testing throughout 2023, EvoLogics unveiled the system at Oceanology International 2024 and is pleased to present a product video showcasing the diver navigation in action.
IMarEST 2024 conference will spotlight the future of ships, shipping and environmental sustainability
Set against the race to create a sustainable maritime sector, the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology’s (IMarEST) Annual Conference will focus on the future of ships, shipping and environmental sustainability. The conference will take place at Leonardo Royal Southampton Grand Harbour, Tuesday 9th July 2024.
The one-day conference will feature plenary keynotes, panels and interactive roundtables, organised into three streams covering Technology, Human Contribution and Environment.
Jo Lewis, Head of IMarEST Events, explains: “We are now in a race against time to ensure that the future of the sector is sustainable. Our conference is an excellent opportunity to bring together the science, engineering and technology communities who are at the centre of finding the innovative solutions we need.”
The opening plenary will feature three high level presentations on the theme of: Navigating the Uncharted Waters: Unveiling the Future Fuels of Ships & Shipping. Experts will look at the future fuels of ships and shipping and will consider technological choices, policy and regulation, and the subsequent impact on environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation.
Following the presentations, delegates will be invited to join a panel discussion and Q&A session chaired by Ralph Rayner, Professorial Research Fellow, Grantham Research Institute on Climate and the Environment, London School of Economics and co-chair IMarEST Operational Oceanography SIG.
Delegates will also have a choice of over 20 break-out discussions and 9 roundtable sessions to join.
Jo concludes: “The conference is a great opportunity not only to hear from the many notable expert speakers we have lined up, but also to network with colleagues. We’ve also designed the conference so that delegates can tailor it to meet their personal and professional goals.”
Companies confirmed as speakers so far include London School of Economics, Engineering Council, BIMCO, Lloyd's Register, Delft University of Technology, Core Power, University of Exeter, World Maritime University, Columbia Ship Management, IMarEST, BMT, GMS, Edgewise Environmental, Maritime Research and Innovation UK, DNV, The Nippon Foundation & GEBCO Seabed 2030.
Further information on sponsorship opportunities is available from the IMarEST Events Team: [email protected], while conference tickets can be purchased on the website.
Impact Subsea appoints Oceasian Technology as overseas service centre in China
Impact Subsea, a leading designer and manufacturer of underwater sensors, has announced the appointment of Oceasian Technology, located in Guangzhou, China, as its first overseas service centre.
This strategic partnership strengthens Impact Subsea’s commitment to providing comprehensive global support to sensor users.
Oceasian Technology, a trusted distributor of Impact Subsea’s sensors, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. Specialising in the sales and service of marine system equipment, Oceasian Technology caters to diverse markets including scientific research, water conservation and hydropower industries. Their proven track record in not only distributing Impact Subsea’s sensors but also providing exceptional service makes them an ideal partner for this expansion.
“We are thrilled to welcome Oceasian Technology as our first overseas service centre,” said Ben Grant, Managing Director at Impact Subsea.
“Their in-depth knowledge of our subsea sensors, combined with their commitment to offering sales, rental, training and technical support, perfectly aligns with our vision of providing users with the best possible subsea sensor solutions.”
This appointment signifies a significant step forward in Impact Subsea’s global growth strategy. By leveraging Oceasian Technology’s established presence and expertise in China, Impact Subsea will be able to better serve users of their sensors in the region and offer them the exceptional after-sales support, maintenance and repair services they deserve.
Benefits for Both Parties
This partnership is mutually beneficial for both Impact Subsea and Oceasian Technology. Impact Subsea gains a strategic foothold in the Chinese market, while Oceasian Technology expands its service offerings and strengthens its position as a leading provider of underwater sensor solutions in China.
Looking Ahead
With Oceasian Technology as its first overseas service centre, Impact Subsea is well-positioned to continue its global expansion and provide its industry-leading subsea sensor solutions to a wider audience. The company remains committed to supporting its global network of distributors and ensuring exceptional service worldwide.
Job Advert: EGS International Ltd hiring for two positions Head of Geoscience & Reporting Manager
Location: Bordon, Hampshire - Flexible working considered.
Position: Full time
Salary: Competitive, accompanied by an attractive package
HEAD OF GEOSCIENCE
EGS is seeking a dynamic individual to manage and lead the geophysics department in the processes of data acquisition, processing, interpretation, and presentation at consistently high standards that meet or exceed client technical specifications and adhere to each project’s time schedules.
Manage support of site activities, focusing on successful delivery of data deliverables; this may be by joining the team on site or by offering remote support. As such, this position includes both site and office-based work.
Develop values which support a culture of teamwork and commitment to continuous improvement of methods which improve quality and eliminate redundancy in geoscience methodologies.
Plan and deliver training and mentoring as required within the departments to build internal capability to meet contracted deliverables and technical standards.
The Head of Geoscience will provide leadership and technical expertise to the Geoscience Team, contribute to strategic decision-making, ensure regulatory compliance, and foster collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
REPORTING MANAGER
EGS are looking for a Senior Geophysicist / Report Writer, who is passionate about offshore survey report writing to join the EGS International team. The Reporting Manager will be covering all aspects of technical report preparation and submission, including the collation of all supporting electronic data deliverables. You will be part of a hard-working and dedicated team, working on a wide range of marine survey projects.
The successful candidate will be a meticulous, organised, with the ability to work under their own initiative to tight deadlines.
Both positions require applicants to possess a relevant BSc degree and have minimum 3 - 5 years' experience in the marine survey industry.
To apply send a CV and covering email to [email protected] by 14th April 2024.
Elevate Offshore announces scholarship opportunity for MSc in hydrography at the University Of Plymouth
Elevate Offshore, a prominent provider of survey, ROV, geotechnical, and inspection personnel serving the offshore oil and gas, renewable energy, telecoms, and power sectors, is pleased to introduce a notable scholarship initiative in collaboration with the University of Plymouth. The scholarship aims to afford aspiring hydrographers a significant opportunity by fully covering the tuition fees for the MSc in Hydrography program, beginning in September 2024.
In addition to covering the degree fees, Elevate Offshore will offer mentorship from their experienced staff surveyors. This mentorship program aims to provide the recipient with invaluable guidance and insight into the industry, facilitating a trajectory towards a successful career in hydrography. Furthermore, the recipient will be able to participate in networking events hosted by Elevate Offshore, enabling them to cultivate meaningful connections within the industry. While the scholarship recipient stands to gain financial support and access to Elevate Offshore’s mentorship program, it will be tailored to provide guidance throughout their academic journey. Additionally, they will be expected to present their findings at industry events and accompany Elevate Offshore to networking opportunities, further enhancing their professional development.
Andrew Blears, Managing Director of Elevate Offshore, conveyed his enthusiasm for the scholarship, remarking,
“Elevate Offshore recognises the burgeoning demand for adept personnel in hydrographic surveying and remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing talent within the field. Through this scholarship collaboration with the University of Plymouth, we endeavour to attract individuals who may not have previously contemplated a career in hydrography, thereby propelling the advancement of this discipline within the offshore industry.”
Dr Tim Scott, Associate Professor in Ocean Exploration and Programme Lead for MSc Hydrography, commented, “This wonderful scholarship opportunity, offered by Elevate Offshore, removes one of the greatest barriers to study for those interested in a career in Hydrography. Our team at the University of Plymouth offers master’s-level scientific and technical education in Hydrography, facilitating specialist training to graduates to accelerate their careers in the marine sector, at a time when there is a national and international shortage of highly skilled personnel.”
Applications for the scholarship must be submitted by 31st July 2024 through the University of Plymouth website. Eligible applicants must be UK-domiciled and have received an offer for a full-time place in the MSc Hydrography program at the University of Plymouth starting in September 2024.
Elevate Offshore intends to grant one scholarship annually to The University of Plymouth’s MSc in Hydrography program. The university will select successful applicants based on their funding application.
Exail introduces new transoceanic Uncrewed Surface Vessel with multi-robot deployment capabilities
Exail, a leading provider of maritime autonomy solutions, has unveiled its new transoceanic Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV), the DriX O-16. Benefitting from an autonomy of 2,500 Nm and a unique naval architecture that enables the USV to withstand the most severe ocean conditions, the new DriX O-16 has been designed for long-duration operations (up to 30 days) and can deploy multiple payloads and subsea assets.
The new USV leverages the successful track record of the already existing DriX USV, launched back in 2017 and that accumulates over 150,000 hours of operations at sea in more than 19 countries. The new DriX O-16 benefits from a hybrid propulsion, redundant architecture, advanced communication systems, as well as AI powered obstacle detection and avoidance capabilities. It offers a high level of reliability and operational efficiency, and new multi-mission capabilities, for enhanced autonomous operations at sea.
A versatile platform, Exail new transoceanic USV allows to launch and recover a wide range of subsea assets such as Remotely Operated Towed Vehicles (ROTVs), inspection-class Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), as well as Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs). Its gondola, located below the surface, can further host a wide range of payloads such as deep-water Multibeam Echosounders (MBES), Sub-Bottom Profilers (SBP), or acoustic subsea positioning and communication systems (USBL). This makes the new DriX O-16 especially suited for full ocean depth scientific and hydrographic surveys, geophysical and UXO surveys, as well as subsea infrastructures inspection and surveys that might require the deployment of multiple robots.
"With this next-generation transoceanic low-carbon USV, we are pushing back the limits of ocean exploration, empowering collaborative autonomy between surface and subsea drones, while minimizing human exposure at sea,” explains Olivier Cervantes, VP Maritime Autonomy Solutions at Exail. “The introduction of our new DriX O-16 truly marks a significant stride in autonomous maritime operations, as multi-robot missions are definitely where we see the maritime industry and our own developments leaning in the coming years.”
Job advert: Deep BV hiring for Senior Geophysicist / Hydrographer
Are you ready to take charge as a senior Geophysicist or Hydrographer, overseeing the processing, reporting, and charting of geophysical or hydrographical project data?
Do you thrive in troubleshooting and resolving data issues, conducting QA/QC, and guiding the professional development of junior staff members? Join Deep!
Deep is at the forefront of hydrography, marine geophysics, and precise marine positioning, committed to contributing to a blue economy and marine climate adaptation. Deep's approach combines high-quality data with innovative technologies and a diverse, skilled team.
Deep is not just a company; it’s a melting pot of over 90 talents from 15 nationalities, unified by a passion for sustainability and technological innovation. Deep's main markets are Renewables, Infrastructure, Governmental, Salvage & Decommissioning and Energy. The main area of survey operations is Northwest Europe with its own specialised nearshore vessels, providing survey support for future-proof projects around the world.
What is Deep looking for?
• Expertise in magnetometry, sub-bottom profiling, multibeam, backscatter or side scan sonar.
• Bachelor’s/master’s degree in Geophysics, Physics, Geology, Hydrography, or a related Earth Science.
• 5+ years of experience working with marine geophysical data.
• Fluency in English, both written and verbal.
• Flexible in working hours and prepared to occasionally work 10-hour days or weekends.
Deep offers
• Working in a team of like-minded professionals.
• Emphasis on training and development.
• Attractive secondary benefits that fit your experience and education.
• Office with scenic roof terrace for lunch and drinks, located in Amsterdam Noord.
• Only a ferry ride away from the center, and easily reachable from outside of Amsterdam.
• Remote work from the UK or relocation to Amsterdam.
If you are interested, have a look at our vacancies or contact HR: [email protected].