Fugro brings its new USV generation to Europe

Fugro has launched its new generation of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) known as Blue Essence in the European market.

Blue Essence, an offshore certified USV with an electric remotely operated vehicle (eROV), will begin its first project in the Netherlands.

During operations, the vessel is controlled from an onshore remote operations center (ROC) via a satellite connection and will be used for the inspection of offshore assets, construction support services, and hydrographic and geophysical surveys.

“We welcome this special vessel in our port. It’s the first time a remotely controlled uncrewed vessel will go to the North Sea from the port of Rotterdam to carry out a project without any personnel on board,” said René de Vries, harbour master of the Rotterdam Port Authority.

“We are proud that this project will be executed safely due to the careful preparation of all parties involved. We expect the development of digitalisation in the shipping sector will improve the safety and accessibility of the Rotterdam port.”

To remind, Blue Essence completed an entirely remote nearshore survey of three gas pipelines for the Woodside-operated North West Shelf project in Australia in July, which represented the first Blue Essence in service anywhere in the world.

Erik-Jan Bijvank, group director Europe and Africa at Fugro, said: “Recently, Fugro’s first Blue Essence has completed its first remote inspection, in Asia Pacific. I am excited that we now also have this newest generation of USVs available for European clients. Over the coming years, Fugro will further expand its fleet of USVs for safer, more sustainable solutions for marine operations.”