Exail unveils ‘next-generation’ transoceanic USV geared for multi-robot missions

UK-based maritime autonomy solutions company Exail has introduced its transoceanic uncrewed surface vessel (USV), the Drix 0-16, that can deploy multiple payloads and subsea assets. 

With an autonomy of 2,500 Nm and a “unique naval architecture”, this USV can endure harsh ocean conditions and was engineered for extended missions lasting up to 30 days.

According to Exail, the new DriX 0-16 leverages the existing 2017-built DriX USV and features hybrid propulsion, redundant architecture, advanced communication systems, and AI-powered obstacle detection, enabling reliability, operational efficiency, and expanded multi-mission capabilities for enhanced autonomous sea operations.

The vessel is capable of launching and recovering various subsea assets, including remotely operated towed vehicles (ROTVs), inspection class remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs).

Its gondola, situated below the surface, accommodates payloads such as deepwater multibeam echosounders (MBES), sub-bottom profilers (SBP), and acoustic subsea positioning and communication systems, making the Drix 0-16 suited for full ocean depth scientific and hydrographic surveys, geophysical and UXO surveys, and subsea infrastructure inspections that necessitate multiple robotic deployments, Exail explained.

“With this next-generation transoceanic low-carbon USV, we are pushing back the limits of ocean exploration, empowering collaborative autonomy between surface and subsea drones, while minimizing human exposure at sea,” said Olivier Cervantes, VP of Maritime Autonomy Solutions at Exail. 

“The introduction of our new Drix 0-16 truly marks a significant stride in autonomous maritime operations, as multi-robot missions are definitely where we see the maritime industry and our own developments leaning in the coming years.”

Recently, Exail’s DriX USV finished what is said to be a first-of-its-kind fisheries research survey for assessment of the impact on biomass and fish stock before, during, and after wind farm construction.