DeepOcean’s inaugural USV taking shape at Spanish shipyard (Photos)

An advanced unmanned surface vessel (USV) being built in Spain for DeepOcean and its partners has started taking shape at GONDAN Shipbuilders.

GONDAN Shipbuilders started the construction of the USV Challenger in March, 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.

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.

DeepOcean reported that it had, together with Aker BP who will be pioneering the USV, visited GONDAN Shipbuilders’ shipyard to see the vessel taking shape.

According to the company, the USV will be remotely controlled from shore, with many autonomous features to ensure safety and operational integrity, even in severe weather conditions. During operations, the USV crew and ROV operators will be co-located in the same remote operating center.

The 24-meter-long vessel is set to be operational in 2025. Furthermore, DeepOcean said it was collaborating with several operators to explore commercial opportunities for the USV in the coming years.

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