DeepOcean’s inaugural USV feels the water for the first time (Video)

An advanced, 24-meter-long unmanned surface vessel (USV) being built in Spain for a joint venture of DeepOcean, Solstad Offshore and Østensjø Rederi has been floated out.

GONDAN Shipbuilders started the construction of the USV Challenger in March 2024, following the order from USV A/S, a joint venture of DeepOcean, Solstad Offshore and Østensjø Rederi, in a project that focuses on improving subsea operations, targeting a reduction of CO2 emissions by more than 90% compared to conventional methods.

It was reported today, February 26, that the USV had been floated out at the Astilleros Gondán shipyard.

Challenger’s float-out in Spain

Watch video here

As the long-term charterer, DeepOcean said it was working with several energy operators to explore commercial opportunities for the Challenger in the coming years. Aker BP will be pioneering the USV.

Designed by Salt Ship Design, the vessel will feature a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system, allowing remote operation and autonomy of up to 30 days at sea. It is set to be operational in 2025.

The USV, launch and recovery system (LARS), and remotely operated vehicle (ROV) will be operated from the Remote Operations Center (ROC) at Killingøy, Norway, owned by Remota, which now includes a dedicated room specifically designed for USV operations.