Ocean science inspires next generation of marine experts, onboard government Research Vessel
Nearly 150 students from Norfolk, London and across the UK explored cutting-edge marine research onboard the 74-metre-long Research Vessel Cefas Endeavour. Initiative opens doors to diverse careers in ocean science while showcasing vital research tackling food security, climate change and pollution. Part of wider efforts to increase diversity in marine science careers, addressing sector's inclusion challenges.
Potential future marine scientists from across London and Norfolk have gained hands-on experience of ocean research during visits to the government's 74-metre-long sea-going marine laboratory. RV Cefas Endeavour was temporarily moored alongside HMS Belfast on the River Thames, 1-2 July to offer a unique open-doors experience to selected young people.
Over 80 schoolchildren and 60 university students explored the state-of-the-art RV Cefas Endeavour this week, learning how marine scientists address critical ocean challenges including climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution.
The visits, organised alongside the Future Ocean 25 conference taking place nearby, gave young people direct access to working scientists while showcasing career opportunities in a field crucial to a sustainable economy, improved environment, health and well-being.
Students engaged with researchers to discover how the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquatic Science (Cefas) supports aquatic food security, clean energy, water health and nature recovery. They experienced research equipment first-hand, including smart buoys for data monitoring, underwater cameras, and sediment sampling technology. They also learnt about marine litter monitoring; about the use of AI in Remote Electronic Monitoring (REM) for fishery data collection; how we collect fish stock assessment data; mapping of Marine Protected Areas using sonar and water quality surveys.
The initiative forms part of Cefas' ongoing commitment to increase diversity within aquatic sciences, encouraging students from all backgrounds to pursue careers in this vital field, which recent studies show are among the least diverse university courses in the UK. *
Little Ilford School's teacher, Mr Obembe said, “It’s been a really educational opportunity for students to be onboard the Cefas Endeavour and to meet real marine scientists. It’s especially good for our students to get insights into different career pathways which I think is a game changer for them.”
Professor Grant Stentiford, Cefas Chief Scientist, said: "The ocean plays a critical role in providing human societies with the essentials of life but is facing challenges in how we manage it sustainably. Participants at the Future Ocean 25 event are all working to address these challenges. The opportunity for young people to come onboard a scientific research vessel and hear about some of this work will hopefully not only inspire the next generation of aquatic and marine scientists but more broadly highlight just how important a healthy ocean is for our own health and prosperity."
More Than Hardware: Voyis Enhances Customer Experience with New Service Programs
Voyis, a leading provider of underwater optical systems, is proud to announce the official launch of two new service offerings designed to enhance the performance, reliability, and value of its flagship Discovery Stereo Vision System: Voyis Academy and Voyis Protect.
These new services reflect Voyis’ commitment to not only delivering cutting-edge subsea imaging technology but also supporting customers throughout the lifecycle of their systems—with comprehensive training and proactive maintenance solutions.
Voyis Academy: Structured Training for Underwater Optical Excellence
Voyis Academy is a tiered training program developed to help users fully leverage the capabilities of the Discovery Stereo Vision System. From new operators to experienced survey professionals, participants are guided through critical topics such as system integration, VSLAM-enabled data acquisition, and the generation of 3D models using leading photogrammetry software. Available both remotely and onsite, the Academy blends theoretical instruction with live demonstrations and hands-on learning. Each session empowers teams to improve data quality, reduce operational risk, and streamline underwater survey workflows—resulting in faster deployment times and more reliable results.
“Training is not just a one-time activity—it’s a long-term investment in your team’s confidence, capability, and performance,” said Tim Scott, Technical Support Manager. “Voyis Academy was created to ensure that every user can extract the maximum value from their optical systems.”
Voyis Protect: Maintenance and Calibration for Long-Term Reliability
Voyis Protect is a structured maintenance and calibration service aimed at preserving the long-term accuracy and performance of the Discovery Stereo Vision System. Each service cycle includes a detailed inspection of all optical, mechanical, and electronic components, as well as recalibration using controlled reference targets to maintain precise 3D modeling and image clarity.
In addition to visual and functional testing, the service includes firmware updates and optional hardware upgrades—ensuring that the system remains current with the latest technological advancements. A new Certificate of Calibration is issued with every service, maintaining confidence in data integrity for critical underwater inspections.
33km Over-the-Horizon: OceanAlpha’s L25 USV Validates Long-Range Survey Capability in Malaysia
In late June 2025, OceanAlpha’s L25 marine unmanned surface vehicle (USV) has successfully completed its first public demonstration in Malaysia, showcasing its advanced marine survey capabilities in real-world conditions at Port Klang. The late June event, attended by over 60 maritime industry leaders, marked a significant step forward for autonomous survey operations in the region.
The L25 USV directly addressed a critical constraint for offshore marine surveys: crew dependence and costly support vessels typically required for operations beyond line-of-sight (LOS) control range. By successfully conducting a survey mission 33 kilometers offshore while maintaining continuous, stable satellite communications and real-time payload data transmission, the L25 validated reliable Over-the-Horizon (OTH) capability essential for large-scale or remote survey areas.
In the congested waters of Port Klang, the vessel’s advanced perception systems enabled autonomous navigation around moored vessels while dynamically adjusting course to maintain safe distances from high-speed marine traffic. The L25’s integrated automated towfish system demonstrated seamless deployment and retrieval of side-scan sonar equipment, eliminating traditional manual winching requirements and reducing operational risks.
The event also highlighted the L25’s ability to transmit multibeam, side-scan, and sub-bottom profiler data in real time, allowing survey teams to conduct immediate quality control and mission adjustments from shore. This capability significantly reduces decision-making timelines for marine survey operations.
The demonstration was made possible through collaboration with key industry partners, including the Malaysian Maritime Department, which facilitated operational approvals. Tara Advisory co-hosted the event, leveraging its expertise in autonomous systems to ensure practical validation of the L25’s capabilities. Technical partners including TA Geosolutions, Hidrokinetik Technologies, and Clockwise Subsea (NOR Offshore Rental) contributed specialized equipment and regional operational expertise.
"Following the successful demonstration of our L25 in Dubai this May, we are pleased to bring another L25 USV to Southeast Asia and validate how OceanAlpha’s autonomous solutions address critical survey pain points," said Pinestone Shi, General Manager of OceanAlpha. "Looking ahead, we will continue to promote our unmanned surface vessel products and comprehensive solutions worldwide, empowering the marine survey industry to achieve safer, more efficient, and cost-effective operations."
With the L25 USV platform now operational in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, OceanAlpha invites interested parties to inquire about technical specifications, demonstration footage, or potential applications. The company continues to work with regional partners to advance autonomous marine survey solutions.
FET Reinforces Growth in Brazil with Partner Appointment
Forum Energy Technologies (FET) has appointed OGEQUIP to represent its subsea operations in Brazil, further strengthening FET’s position in South America. Under the partnership, OGEQUIP will deliver FET’s Subsea Technologies product line business development, technical and administrative support.
Kevin Taylor, Vice President – Operations, Subsea Technologies said: “As we continue our ambitious strategy to grow our presence in Brazil, maintaining an in-country partner to support high demand is crucial. OGEQUIP has already started to provide local services and we are confident that this partnership will yield great results.
Josimar Almeida, Business and Operations Manager – OGEQUIP said: “We are committed to providing FET with a high standard of technical, administrative and customer support across Brazil and look forward to working closely with the team to enhance its subsea offerings on the continent.”
Headquartered in Macaé, Rio de Janeiro, OGEQUIP specialises in providing maintenance solutions, equipment sales and products for the oil and gas sector. The company will apply its expertise and collaborate with FET to create solutions tailored to customer demands, including onshore and offshore operations and technical support.
PXGEO’s Hans-Peter Burlid takes on new chief strategy & transformation officer role
PXGEO has appointed Hans-Peter Burlid to the newly created position of Chief Strategy & Transformation Officer (CS&TO). Mr Burlid, currently the organization’s CCO, will drive long-term strategic direction to deliver sustainable growth and lasting competitive advantage.
A leading specialist in seismic data acquisition and marine geophysical services, PXGEO was established in 2021. The firm employs a workforce of 400 across strategic global locations, including its Dubai headquarters and offices in Paris, Houston, and Oslo, along with a dedicated offshore workforce.
Having been with PXGEO since its inception, Mr Burlid brings an extensive and deep understanding of the company’s operations, culture and commercial landscape. Known for his strong business acumen and a proven track record of driving complex, cross-functional projects, he is well-positioned to lead the company’s strategic agenda under the guidance of newly appointed Executive Chairman and CEO Charles ‘Chuck’ Davison Jnr.
Mr Burlid has 21 years’ experience largely in finance and commercial roles throughout the maritime and subsea data acquisition industry. Notably, prior to PXGEO, he spent 13 years at Polarcus, a publicly traded geophysical service provider, where he rose through the ranks to become CFO for five years.
On taking up the CS & TO role, Mr Burlid said: "I am excited to take on this new responsibility at PXGEO. The opportunity to forge strategic clarity and lead transformational change aligns with my passion for innovation and delivering lasting business impact. I look forward to working closely with Chuck and the team to unlock new growth opportunities and build on our position as a global leader in seismic data acquisition."
Mr Davison said: "“I believe in building careers as well as a sustainable business, and this appointment reflects that commitment. We’ve been fortunate to benefit from Hans-Peter’s commercial expertise and leadership during his tenure as CCO. His deep knowledge of our organisation and his strategic mindset will be invaluable as we advance our growth agenda and execute our long-term plans. With Hans-Peter undertaking this new assignment, we are confident PXGEO will continue to evolve and strengthen its market position around the world."
MacArtney and NCPOR advance India's Deep Ocean Mission with clean research technology
In line with India's growing focus on deep-sea science and infrastructure, the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) has deployed a fully integrated clean lab, winch, and CTD system supplied by MacArtney. The solution enables high-precision data acquisition while preserving sample integrity to support marine science ambitions.
Ensuring clean sampling conditions is essential for obtaining reliable water data that supports research into the seafloor, deep-ocean chemistry, and the dynamics of our marine environment. However, operating in deep-sea conditions presents inherent challenges, from extreme pressure to the risk of introducing trace contamination during collection and handling.
MacArtney’s advanced all-in-one clean lab solution addresses these challenges by providing a controlled environment for handling and analysing water samples collected at depth, ensuring data integrity and enhancing the reliability of scientific findings. This capability aligns with India's scientific and strategic ambitions under the Deep Ocean Mission while enhancing NCPOR's ability to study the seafloor, setting a new benchmark for clean oceanographic research in the region.
"We're proud to support NCPOR in this important step toward advancing their deep-sea research capabilities," said Steen Frejo, Sales Director at MacArtney. "It's a privilege to contribute to a mission of this scale, and we look forward to building on this collaboration in the years ahead."
A scope ensuring data integrity The solution's core is a 20-foot clean lab container, purpose-built to maintain sample integrity during deep-sea research operations. The controlled environment eliminates metal contamination and environmental interference, which can compromise trace element analysis and sensitive chemical readings.
Complementing the clean lab is a containerised MERMAC winch system with 8,000 metres of clean CTD cable and a Sea-Bird Scientific SBE 32 24-bottle carousel water sampler with high-precision CTD sensors (conductivity, temperature, depth). The cable is flushed with freshwater before re-spooling to prevent salt and metal contamination and is fitted with a TrustLink stress termination to ensure secure, reliable load transfer. Together, the system supports ultra-clean data acquisition and enables NCPOR to conduct full-depth CTD casts with confidence in the quality and consistency of their results.
This also highlights MacArtney’s close cooperation with Sea-Bird Scientific and the ability to deliver tailored Sea-Bird systems to projects worldwide.
Delivering customised solutions with local support This first delivery to NCPOR was a turnkey package, with MacArtney overseeing all steps from design and engineering to on-site commissioning and training.
The clean lab container was manufactured in cooperation with EMS, a long-standing MacArtney distributor in Spain. EMS is known for its expertise in customised systems and familiarity with Sea-Bird Scientific instrumentation. In India, MacArtney’s local distributor, Ms Deekay Marine Services, supports commissioning and service of the Sea-Bird Scientific equipment, ensuring responsive, on-site technical support throughout the system’s lifecycle.
This project reflects MacArtney's global expansion strategy, recognising India as a key region for long-term growth and collaboration in underwater technology.
NOVACAVI Hybrid Umbilical Powers AI Robot in Port of Trieste Dock 7 Restoration
NOVACAVI, specialist in custom underwater and marine cables, has been chosen to design and manufacture a hybrid buoyant umbilical that will drive an AI-guided demolition robot during the rehabilitation of Dock 7 at the Port of Trieste.
The arm-equipped robot will remove deteriorated concrete using high-pressure hydro-demolition while protecting the underlying steel structure. Reliable power, control and real-time data transmission will be delivered through NOVACAVI’s hybrid buoyant cable. Wrapped in a hydrolysis- and UV-resistant matt polyurethane (PUR) sheath, the cable combines lightness, buoyancy and rugged durability—ideal for demanding marine infrastructure projects.
“We are thrilled to support the Port of Trieste’s forward-looking initiative,” said Francesca Faverio – Business Development Manager of NOVACAVI. “Our 21GAX207 umbilical ensures the robot can operate with maximum precision and minimum downtime, accelerating restoration while safeguarding the environment.”
Since 1975 Novacavi has specialised in the design and manufacture of special electric cables used in the most varied and extreme conditions in both civil and military environments. The company has been active in the underwater sector for almost 30 years, producing technologically advanced solutions identified by its Aquancable® line, special cables for marine and underwater technologies.
For more details, please contact [email protected] or visit https://www.novacavi.it/news/
Kongsberg Discovery has decided to start production of HUGIN, an autonomous underwater vehicle, in the U.S.
Kongsberg Discovery has decided to start production of HUGIN, an autonomous underwater vehicle, in the U.S. This strategic decision reflects the commitment to supporting the growing demand for advanced subsea technology in the U.S. market.
Kongsberg Discovery is a global leader in advanced robotics and sensor technology, enabling the mapping, monitoring, and surveying of the ocean environment. This is achieved using advanced hydroacoustic, optical, and scientific sensors, connected to sophisticated data networks and visualisation tools. The company has now decided to start producing autonomous underwater vehicles in the U.S.
"This strategic decision reflects our commitment to support the growing demand for advanced subsea technology in the U.S. market. By establishing domestic production capabilities, we aim to strengthen our U.S.-based supply chain and enhance our responsiveness to the evolving needs of our government and commercial customers. This demand has increased as global tension has risen”, says Martin Wien Fjell, President of Kongsberg Discovery.
Utilize opportunities
Kongsberg Discovery have already delivered HUGIN to the U.S. Navy and other organizations within the government, commercial and academic sectors.
Due to increased demand from the defense sector and growing recognition of our unmanned underwater vehicles' (UUV) capabilities among U.S. Navy customers, a strategic decision has been made to expand investment in the United States. According to Fjell, the company’s ongoing development has resulted in systems that address a range of high-priority naval requirements.
“Kongsberg Discovery plan to start the HUGIN production at our existing facility in Lynnwood, Washington. The future production facility is yet to be decided,” he says.
Increased attention from defense
Today, there are 12 navies using HUGIN in real-world missions such as Intelligence Preparation of the Operational Environment, Mine Counter Measure, Subsea and Seabed Warfare, and seafloor mapping operations.
“We are excited to bring our many years of AUV experience in support of the U.S. military. This is a major project that supports the management’s decision to invest in a production and assembly facility for HUGIN in the US,” Fjell continued.
Strong footprint in the US
In the United States, Kongsberg Discovery U.S. (formerly Kongsberg Underwater Technology LLC) has been the exclusive supplier and integrator of Kongsberg Discovery (KD) sonar equipment used for oceanographic survey and research missions, from the shallowest to the deepest parts of the oceans. KD U.S. has installed and maintained this equipment on new or repurposed vessels for projects each year since 1989. Currently, the sonar mission systems on over 30 ships in the U.S. government and academic fleets are supported throughout their lifespan, including the T-AGS 60 class and T-ARC, as well as achieving significant commercial success. In addition to science mission sonar packages, KD U.S. has provided the U.S. government with uncrewed platform solutions.
KONGSBERG have around 900 employees at 15 locations in the U.S. and Canada. All business areas are represented in the U.S., and the strategy going forward is to further increase its presence in North America.
BeWild achieves world’s first remote ecology survey at CrossWind offshore wind farm
The BeWild project, led by Fugro, has successfully completed the world’s first fully remote ecology survey at CrossWind’s Hollandse Kust Noord offshore wind farm, marking a significant shift in marine ecosystem monitoring. This innovative approach enables more efficient and less disruptive monitoring, which is crucial for protecting marine life and the sustainable growth of offshore wind energy.
Together, the BeWild partners integrated computer vision and environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling into Fugro’s Blue Volta® electric remotely operated vehicle (eROV). This system was deployed from its Blue Essence® uncrewed surface vessel (USV), with both USV and eROV controlled from Fugro’s remote operations centre in Aberdeen.
Dan Smith, BeWild Manager, explains: “This survey provides a glimpse into the future of offshore ecology monitoring. By delivering high-quality data remotely, we’re not only reducing operational costs and environmental impact, but also enabling our clients to gain unprecedented insights into the health and biodiversity of their offshore assets. We’re incredibly excited about the potential this technology holds for the sustainable development of offshore wind energy.”
Pauline Roos, CrossWind’s Marine Ecologist said: “At CrossWind, we are excited to combine remote asset inspections with ecological monitoring of our nature inclusive scour protection measures. By combining the two, we can be more efficient with our resources offshore, ultimately making it safer for people. We look forward to seeing the results of these surveys.”
Renate Olie, Marine Ecologist at The Rich North Sea said: “In this survey, we explore how regular offshore inspections can integrate ecological monitoring. By using autonomous technology and different survey techniques, we get a better understanding of marine biodiversity around wind turbines. By combining offshore wind energy with nature enhancement, we work towards a thriving and biodiverse North Sea.”
This survey marks the first of four research and development assessments at CrossWind under the BeWild project, supported by a Mission-driven Research, Development and Innovation (MOOI) subsidy from the Dutch Enterprise Agency (RVO).
MacArtney secures contract to deliver mission equipment package for N-Sea’s cable lay and repair vessel Altera
MacArtney Offshore Wind Solutions, in collaboration with Subsea Cable Assets (SCA) and Enersea, has been awarded the contract to design and deliver a fully integrated cable lay spread, a tailored solution for N-Sea’s new cable-laying vessel, Altera.
This project demonstrates the value of trusted partnerships, combining MacArtney’s advanced mission equipment and control systems, SCA’s fabrication and EPCI expertise, and Enersea’s intelligent deck layout and integration design.
The result is a turnkey system designed to enhance operational efficiency, ensure safety, and enable swift mobilisation, customised to meet the demands of modern offshore wind cable installation and repairs.
Enabling performance through integration The integrated cable lay spread includes a 4,500t carousel, an automated loading tower with integrated tensioner, a 15t tracked deck tensioner, a quadrant and quadrant handling system with sliding banks, cable highways, retractable stern chutes, and a range of winches.
The system is delivered as a complete package, from concept and layout to hardware and execution, backed by a streamlined mobilisation philosophy designed to avoid disrupting Altera’s construction process.
“We’re really proud of this collaboration,” says Mike Welling, Business Development Manager at MacArtney Offshore Wind Solutions. “It’s a great example of how aligned partnerships can deliver true value to the offshore wind sector.”
All components are engineered for seamless integration, supporting safe, flexible, and efficient offshore operations. Delivery and mobilisation onboard the Altera are planned for Q1 2026.
Looking ahead As the offshore wind sector continues to scale, collaboration and integration remain key to delivering efficient, future-ready solutions.
“By joining forces with SCA and Enersea, we’ve brought together the best of three worlds — innovative technology, smart engineering, and robust execution,” Welling adds. “We see this as a strong foundation for future opportunities and look forward to continuing this journey together.”
This project reinforces MacArtney’s role in enabling the offshore wind industry through reliable, integrated cable lay solutions that keep offshore wind moving forward.