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Fugro, one of the world’s leading geo-data providers, has announced that the 12m Blue Essence-type uncrewed surface vessel (USV), Fugro Pegasus, has received full navigation licensing from the UAE Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure. This is the first registration of a USV in the country’s history.
The vessel, which can be controlled from anywhere in the world, is designed for inspecting subsea assets and incorporates the Blue Volta e-ROV, that extends the inspection portfolio up to 400 m water depth. Blue Essence technology allows experts to deliver projects from Fugro’s onshore remote operations centres (ROCs) safely out of harm’s way while experiencing a better work-life balance. Its advanced systems, and an array of geophysical sensors, allow subsea inspection asset and site characterisation surveys, enabling the vessel to conduct operations safely and efficiently, reducing emissions by 95% compared to conventional vessel operations, states Fugro.
“There were no existing regulations for uncrewed vessels, so we formed a working group with UAE authorities and local partners to facilitate the process,” said Hannes Swiegers, Director of Remote Operations, Middle East and India, at Fugro. “We are proud to have achieved the first-ever registration of an over-the-horizon USV in the country and are confident that the vessel will support the UAE’s efforts to maintain their subsea infrastructure, whilst contributing to environmental protection and maritime safety.”
