Voyis Unveils VSLAM 1.3 with Augmented 3D Visualization for Enhanced Subsea Inspection
New voxel-based point cloud technology delivers real-time scene coverage and improved pilot awareness
Voyis, a leader in underwater optical systems, in collaboration with EIVA, is proud to announce the release of Voyis VSLAM Powered by EIVA NaviSuite version 1.3. This major update marks a leap forward in real-time subsea mapping, delivering a groundbreaking 3D visualization experience using voxel-based rendering and stereo vision technologies.
Version 1.3 introduces a next-generation voxel-based 3D mapping engine, enabling real-time textured visualizations of inspection environments. By projecting the ROV camera’s field of view onto the real-time 3D map, operators gain a uniquely intuitive window into subsea scenes—offering unmatched spatial context and navigational confidence during visual inspections.
“This release transforms the way ROV pilots interact with real-time data,” said Chris Gilson, CEO of Voyis. “By embedding live video perspectives into a continuously updating voxel map, we’re providing pilots with the ability to navigate more intelligently, cover more ground, and reduce data gaps in their inspection workflows.”
Augmented Real-Time Visualisation for Confident Piloting
The new default visualization overlays the system’s real-time depth map onto a structured voxel-based 3D map. The result is a real-time projection of the camera’s field of view, allowing ROV pilots to instantly see where the camera is looking within the environment and align their trajectory to uninspected areas.
This augmented piloting interface supports more efficient movement, better scene coverage, and easier gap-filling, which is particularly critical in large or complex subsea structures such as pipelines, hulls, and infrastructure.
Voxel-Based Mapping: Precision, Speed, and Clarity
Version 1.3 features a real-time point cloud engine using voxel modeling with a minimum resolution of 2.5 cm. Voxels, volumetric pixels, structure the map into a uniform 3D grid that stores both spatial and visual data. This representation significantly reduces noise by aggregating multiple stereo measurements within each voxel, eliminating isolated outliers common in raw point clouds.
Beyond cleaner visuals, the voxel format allows for faster map updates and more reliable loop closures during relocalization, ensuring a smoother, clutter-free experience even as the system corrects for positional drift.
Empowering ROV Operators with Actionable Data
With this release, ROV pilots can quickly identify data gaps in real time, allowing them to proactively adjust their trajectory before resurfacing. This minimizes rework, improves inspection quality, and ensures comprehensive scene documentation on the first pass.
Whether inspecting wide-area infrastructure or confined spaces, the VSLAM 1.3 solution empowers users with immediate spatial awareness and a high-confidence understanding of their inspection progress.
Availability
Voyis VSLAM Powered by EIVA NaviSuite 1.3 will be available globally to existing users as of late July 2025. For more information, or to request a demo, please contact us or visit www.voyis.com.
The latest VSLAM capabilities will be demonstrated live at EIVA Demo Days on September 24–25, 2025 in Aarhus, Denmark. Representatives from both Voyis and EIVA will be on-site to showcase the system’s real-time voxel-based mapping and visual navigation features in operation. This is an excellent opportunity to experience the technology firsthand and speak directly with the teams behind its development.
Fugro selected to deliver extensive offshore and onshore surveys for multiple major energy field developments in the Middle East
Fugro has recently been awarded multiple contracts to perform comprehensive offshore and onshore surveys in the United Arab Emirates, supporting two of the region’s largest long-term field development programmes. These projects mark a major milestone in Fugro’s continued contribution to the sustainable advancement of the Middle East’s energy sector.
Starting in August 2025, Fugro will deploy its advanced geophysical, geotechnical, uncrewed surface vessel (USV), and environmental expertise, as well as the innovative GroundIQ® technology. These will be complemented by cutting-edge engineering and geo-consulting services to support our strategic client’s Front End Engineering Design (FEED) process.
The scopes of work include surveys for pipelines, cables, artificial islands, and offshore structures. Fugro’s integrated approach will deliver near real-time insights into ground conditions via its remote data management solutions, enabling the client to make timely, well-informed design decisions and realise significant capital expenditure savings across the development programme.
Annabelle Vos, Group Director Middle East & India at Fugro, said: “We are proud to support these landmark field developments with our full suite of site characterisation and consulting services. Our local expertise, combined with Fugro’s global technology leadership, will help deliver safe, efficient, and sustainable outcomes for our client. These awards further strengthen our position as a trusted partner in the region’s energy sector.”
These projects were partially included in the 12-month backlogs as per April and June 2025 (Fugro’s latest published results).
Navtech Radar and Tocaro Blue: strategic partnership sets industry benchmark for sensor perception
Navtech Radar, designer and manufacturer of high-precision W-band Radar systems, announced a strategic partnership with Tocaro Blue, a developer of Machine Learning (ML) powered Radar processing solutions. This collaboration combines Navtech's cutting-edge Radar hardware with Tocaro Blue's advanced machine learning Radar processing software to deliver a transformative marine navigation and collision avoidance sensor.
Traditional marine Radar is most effective at ranges exceeding 100m and is typically used to detect threats miles away from the vessel; it also struggles to reliably detect small objects on the water. Navtech’s unique W-band Radar offers unparalleled short-range sensing, highly relevant for use on maneuverable unmanned vessels.
The partnership combines Navtech's state-of-the-art W-band Radar technology, featuring an impressive 1000m range, centimeter-level resolution and a precise 1.8-degree beam width, with Tocaro Blue's ProteusCore™ object detection, classification, and tracking solution. With this combination of technologies, Perception Engineers can expect a sensor that offers near field awareness in all weather conditions, processed with machine learning for an automated, fusion-ready output.
“The opportunity to collaborate with Tocaro Blue is an exciting moment for the marine industry. The partnership enables the creation of a robust, all-weather maritime perception system that delivers unprecedented situational awareness, object detection, and classification performance - redefining capability standards in the maritime domain; A critical step in supporting the transition toward increased autonomy in the marine environment.” Sam Wood, Segment Lead from Navtech Radar
"Our collaboration with Navtech Radar creates an unrivaled solution for the maritime industry," Andrew Rains, Senior Sales Director from Tocaro Blue. "By combining their exceptional sensing capabilities with our novel ML-based processing technology, we're enabling vessels to comprehend their environment with remarkable clarity and track targets with high accuracy."
This partnership addresses the growing demand for autonomous and semi-autonomous marine vessels, where mission critical perception systems are essential for safe operation. The combination of Navtech's hardware and Tocaro Blue's processing software creates a comprehensive solution that supports advanced navigation applications across coastal & port monitoring, autonomous work boats, commercial shipping, and mission-critical maritime defense operations.
Navtech’s Radar system excels in providing high-resolution returns, offering mariners detailed environmental awareness previously unavailable in traditional S- and X-band Radar systems. Tocaro Blue's ProteusCore™ Radar Processing software is immediately compatible with Navtech’s Radars, bridging the gap between Navtech’s high-resolution returns and inputs for your perception system or autonomy stack.
For more information about this partnership and the integrated Radar solutions, contact Navtech Radar and Tocaro Blue through their respective corporate communications channels.
Bjørn Ladegård appointed Executive Vice President of Nortek
Bjørn Ladegård has been appointed Executive Vice President with responsibility for Nortek, part of the General Oceans Group. Ladegård comes from the position as VP Renewables Operations and Senior Project Manager at Nexans, where he has been responsible for US operations and European energy infrastructure projects. He assumed his new duties on Friday 1st August 2025.
“Nortek is established as a leading global player within subsea technology. I could not hope for a more exciting challenge than working with the Nortek team to increase growth by building on the company’s technological excellence”, said Bjørn Ladegård, newly appointed Executive Vice President with responsibility for Nortek, which merged to become part of General Oceans in 2021.
Ladegård replaces Jannicke Koch-Hagen who has been interim General Manager at Nortek in addition to her position as CFO since October 2024. She will now return to her CFO position.
“With Bjørn now taking over leadership of Nortek, I am confident that the company will continue to grow and remain at the forefront of acoustic Doppler technology and associated application areas. His international experience and leadership capabilities will benefit both Nortek and General Oceans. I would also like to thank Jannicke for taking charge and handling two demanding jobs in an excellent manner for almost a year”, said Atle Lohrmann, founder and President of General Oceans.
Ocean technology specialist Nortek reported revenues of NOK 412 million in 2024, compared to NOK 398 million in 2023. Nortek is part of General Oceans, an ocean technology group aiming to consolidate the industry through acquisitions. The group consists of Nortek AS, based in Norway. Strategic Robotic Systems (SRS) and Klein Marine Systems based in the US, Reach Robotics, based in Australia, as well as Tritech International and RS Aqua in the UK. General Oceans now employs over 320 people based in 18 offices across the world.
MacArtney appoints General Manager to lead Sweden office amid growing market demand
MacArtney Underwater Technology has appointed Håkan Sundin as the General Manager of its Sweden operation. This appointment reinforces the company’s dedication to local engagement and collaboration with Swedish customers.
The move supports MacArtney’s ambition to establish a fully-fledged presence in Sweden and further its role as the go-to partner in underwater technology.
Since opening the office in Mölnlycke near Gothenburg in 2022, MacArtney has seen growing recognition from the Swedish market. The local presence has enabled closer partnerships across the marine and offshore, ocean science, and naval sectors, as well as with academic and scientific institutions.
“Our presence in Sweden is translating into stronger partnerships and more responsive support. Håkan’s appointment underscores our long-term commitment to the region and our belief in collaboration as the foundation for reliable, high-performance underwater solutions,” says Rasmus Frøkjær Bonde, CCO at MacArtney.
Strong marine profile to take the lead With a background in natural sciences and nearly 30 years of experience in the marine and offshore industries, Håkan Sundin brings deep market insight and technical expertise to the role.
Having worked with survey companies and entrepreneurial ventures like Ocean Infinity (formerly MMT), Håkan is well-acquainted with MacArtney’s offerings, having even purchased a MacArtney FOCUS vehicle earlier in his career.
“I’ve always been drawn to B2B environments where client interaction and solving complex challenges are central,” says Håkan. “MacArtney’s one-stop-shop approach and quality offerings make it a natural fit. I’m excited to lead a strong Swedish team and aim to double our revenue within three years by focusing on core MacArtney products and affiliated solutions.”
Expanding horizons in Sweden The MacArtney Group welcomes Håkan Sundin aboard. His appointment marks a natural next step in exploring new opportunities and continuing the tradition of delivering outstanding service.
“Håkan brings the right mix of experience, insight, and values. He understands the demands of subsea environments, knows our products and solutions, and has a proven track record of aligning technology with customer needs. His leadership qualities will be key as we continue to scale our ambitions in Sweden,” concludes Rasmus.
With a capable team in Mölnlycke and fast access to MacArtney’s full portfolio, including connectivity and data acquisition solutions, and integrated technologies, the company is set to support complex operations from the seafloor to the surface and strengthen its role in Sweden’s expanding marine industries.
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.”