Fugro’s first UAE-flagged unmanned surface vessel

Built by Fugro’s partner SEA-KIT International, the Blue Essence vessel can be controlled from anywhere in the world and is designed for inspection of subsea assets. Remote inspection solution incorporates Blue Volta^® e-ROV, which expands the inspection portfolio to 400m water depth. Blue Essence enables specialists to safely deliver projects from Fugro’s onshore Remote Operations Center (ROC), while experiencing a better work-life balance. Its advanced systems and array of geophysical sensors allow subsea inspection of assets and surveys of site characteristics, enabling Fugro Blue Essence vessels to operate safely and efficiently, with 95% reduction in emissions compared to conventional vessel operations.

Hannes Swiegers, Director of Remote Operations at Fugro Middle East and India, said: “There are currently no regulations for unmanned vessels, so we have formed a working group with the UAE authorities and local partners to facilitate this process.” The country has registered for the first time an over-the-horizon USV and believes the vessel will support the UAE’s efforts to maintain its subsea infrastructure while contributing to environmental protection and maritime safety.”