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ISSUE 3 2025

U N D E R W A T E R

T E C H N O L O G Y

TWO

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SOCIETY FOR

UNDERWATER TECHNOLOGY

Vol 19 No3

Editor: John Howes

John@ut-2.com

+44 7859905550

Editorial

Zoltan Vinegar

Research

M Hamilton Perry

Advertising:

Zinat Hassan

UT3subsea@gmail.com

Tel: +44 (0) 845 6522 483

Mobile: +44 (0) 781 1200 483

Published by UT2 Publishing for and

on behalf of the Society for

Underwater Technology.

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part, without permission, is

prohibited. The publisher and the

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for content of any advertisement,

particularly infringement of

copyrights, trademarks, intellectual

property rights and patents, nor

liability for misrepresentations, false

or misleading statements and

illustrations. These are the sole

responsibility of the advertiser.

Opinions of the writers are not

necessarily those of the SUT or the

publishers.

CONTENTS

COVER STORY: Deep Sea

Energy

SubCtech Battery

Storage Skid lifted

into ocean by support

vessel after successful

re-charging campaign

NEWS from the

OceanBusiness show

inSouthampton……

…..and Global Offshore

Wind

UNDERWATER IMAGING

Luxus IP Camera,

SmartSight, Deep vision

SOLAR POWERED USVs

Blue Trail, Openocean

Robotics

Seasats,Seatraac,

Echoblue

TRENCHERS

Amphibious HiTraq jetter,

100th Plough, Jet -it, NKT

T3600, Pretrenching

As global demand for deep-sea

energy, surveillance, and

infrastructure expands, the

subsea technology market is

undergoing a transformation.

Subsea power systems must

evolve to support more

autonomous platforms, operate

at greater depths, and reduce

emissions—while remaining

compact, efficient, and fail-safe.

SubCtech, founded in 2010 by

applied physicist Stefan Marx, has

positioned itself as a global

leader in advanced underwater

energy solutions. Based in Kiel,

Germany, SubCtech specialises in

subsea power ands batteries

custom engineering, and rigorous

prototype validation for a wide

range of subsea applications.

With a growing team and

expanding global reach, the

company delivers smart, field-

tested systems that reduce

CAPEX, OPEX, and CO₂

emissions—a win for industry,

security, and sustainability.

AUVS, OFFSHORE ASSETS &

OCEAN MONITORING

SubCtech’s Ocean Power product

line includes lithium-ion battery

systems, energy storage

solutions, and telemetry tools

built for:

● Offshore Oil & Gas CCS

● Environmental monitoring

● Autonomous and remotely

operated vehicles (AUVs, ROVs,

USVs)

At the core of this portfolio is the

INNOVATIVE AND SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGIES FOR THE

RAPIDLY-GROWING UNDERWATER MARKETS

DEEP SEA ENERGY

Battery Storage Skid lifted into ocean by support vessel for

first deployment

NEWS

PowerPacks line—robust, long-

lifespan battery systems (up to 25

years) that power everything from

portable sensors to large-scale

underwater platforms.

Engineered for operation in harsh

subsea environments, the

PowerPacks come in a variety of

pressure-tolerant housings

including:

● Titanium: for ultra-deep

missions up to 6000m

● Super-Duplex Stainless Steel:

rugged and corrosion-resistant,

also to 6000m

● Marine-grade Aluminum:

optimized for shallower

operations up to 1000m

BUILT FOR POWER, PROVEN IN

THE FIELD

SubCtech’s battery systems

undergo extensive qualification

testing—including resistance to

shock, vibration, thermal

variation, and electromagnetic

interference. All systems are built

to meet or exceed:

● UN T38.3 (transport safety)

● API17F / API17Q (subsea

equipment reliability)

● MIL-STD, DNV 2.7-3 (portable

offshore units)

The Li-Ion-based PowerPacks

offer automatic protection

against overvoltage,

undervoltage, overcurrent,

overheating, overcharging, and

short circuits and smart algorithm

for complex ESS system.

An intelligent Battery

Management System (SmartBMS)

constantly monitors and

optimizes performance from

individual cells to full module

arrays.

These systems also support AI-

based predictive analytics and

remote diagnostics—enhancing

reliability while minimising

downtime.

PowerPacks can deliver higher

peak currents, operate in sub-

zero temperatures, and support

long-term deployments with

minimal maintenance.

SUBSEA ESS: POWERING THE

ENERGY TRANSITION

A major milestone for SubCtech

is the development of a modular,

scalable Subsea Energy Storage

System (ESS)—the first of its kind

to be certified under API17F and

reach TRL 6 (Technology

Readiness Level 6), validated in

real-world offshore deployment.

The ESS includes:

● Two 1 MWh Battery Storage

Skids (BSS)

● Integrated Power Skid (AC/DC

converter)

FAULT FINDING • CONSTRUCTION • DECOMMISSIONING

Subsea Test Tools

www.c-kore.com

Tel: +44 (0)1904 215161 • Email: sales@C-Kore.com

Insulation Resistance

Electrical TDR

Optical TDR

Sensor Monitor

C-Kore’s patented test tools automate the entire

testing process, achieving significant cost savings. It’s

safe for use on all subsea infrastructure, giving you

better data much faster without extra personnel.

Now with

Optical TDR

● Auto-configuration via

SmartBMS and BCM (Battery

Control Module based on NetDI

technology)

● Redundant architecture for

continuous operation

● Modular expansion to 6 MWh

capacity

Built for a 25-year lifespan, the

ESS currently supports 2000m

deployments, with options for

3000m and 6000m depths. The

system has already been

successfully implemented in the

oil & gas sector, with an

immediate reorder confirming its

value and dependability.

FROM AUVS TO

INFRASTRUCTURE: FLEXIBLE

APPLICATIONS

SubCtech’s vehicle batteries and

subsea systems support a wide

array of defense and industrial

use cases:

● XXL-AUVs for surveillance,

mine detection, and deep-sea

intelligence (up to 12 modules at

100kWh each, totaling >1 MWh

at up to 1000V, in serial or parallel

configurations)

● AUVs with 416 mm, 310 mm or

260 mm battery modules

diameter for underwater

inspection or monitoring

● Docking-enabled AUVs and

ROVs, autonomously charging at

seabed stations without surface

recovery.

The ESS also provides buffering

for renewable energy sources like

wave, wind, and solar power, and

powers subsea compression,

injection, and monitoring

equipment—key to the offshore

energy transition.

ENGINEERING FOR EFFICIENCY

AND SUSTAINABILITY

By minimising the need for

vessel-based operations,

SubCtech’s systems dramatically

reduce both operational costs

and emissions. The ESS can

replace long umbilical

connections, reduce cable

infrastructure, especially long

tiebacks or CCS and extend

autonomous deployment

durations—all while maintaining

high safety and reliability

standards.

The redundancy concept ensures

uninterrupted supply to critical

subsea loads, and smart

telemetry systems enable

wireless underwater

communication via Acoustic

Telemetry Modems (ATM), with

ranges up to 6000m.

GLOBAL GROWTH, LOCAL

EXPERTISE

With 80 employees and tripling

production expansion in 2025,

SubCtech continues to scale

responsibly. Their UN-certified

battery systems are airfreight-

compatible and shipped globally,

supported by a professional

international sales network.

1 MWh Battery Storage Skid deployment

Battery Storage Skid

NEWS

Empowering

The professional portable underwater vehicle.

Seaeye Falcon

The Seaeye Falcon is the most versatile underwater electric

robotic system in its class. Compact, powerful, and depth-rated

to 300m or 1000m, it excels in demanding missions making it

the trusted choice for critical underwater tasks worldwide.

Learn more at: saabseaeye.com

OCEAN BUSINE

function ensures high contrast

across different seafloor types.

Both models include integrated

pitch, roll, heading and pressure

sensors for precise navigation

and depth measurement, helping

users to collect accurate, high-

resolution data in the most

demanding underwater

environments.

Typical applications for the

GeoScan family include Search

and Recovery (SAR), hydrographic

surveying, object detection and

identification, inspection and

engineering support, and marine

geology and archaeology.

It comes with a with a standard

50m tow cable.

GeoAcoustics also

has expanded of its

custom cable

moulding and

assembly services for

subsea equipment

manufacturers, marine

systems integrators

by acquiring a

specialist cable

moulding company

located near its

Yarmouth HQ.

Overmoulding

GeoAcoustics showed its new

sidescan sonar at Ocean

Business. Weighing only 25kg,

the GeoScan is able to be

carried by a single person. The

range currently features two

models, both offering

simultaneous broadband dual

frequency operation and

advanced sonar processing

features.

The GeoScan 2361 operates at

300 kHz and 600 kHz to

maximise range performance,

while the GeoScan 2491 runs at

400 kHz and 900 kHz to deliver

even higher image resolution.

Both include a fast 60 kHz

update rate, CW and Chirp

pulse options, no near-field

blurring, and a maximum

operating depth of 300m.

GeoScan features high-definition

capabilities that combines ultra-

short pulses and pulse

compression to enhance image

resolution and range definition.

A dynamic variable aperture

focusing system enables higher

resolution at shorter ranges and

improved image quality at

longer ranges, while an

automated image equalisation

GEOSCAN

This strategic move unlocks

increased capacity and

specialist expertise, enabling

the delivery of complex, high-

reliability cable mouldings

and terminations for a wide

range of marine and subsea

applications.

Cable moulding is a critical

process in the production and

use of underwater

equipment, involving the

sealing and encapsulation of

cable terminations to ensure

electrical integrity, water

ingress protection, and

mechanical durability under

harsh ocean conditions.

NEWS

Gyrocompassing IMU

MRU

Norwegian Subsea’s Motion Reference Units

(MRUs) are now available integrated with

WASSP’s multibeam sonar systems, offering

enhanced motion data accuracy and

performance for offshore applications.

Designed for simple setup and operation,

Norwegian Subsea MRUs offer comparable

heave accuracy to RTK-enabled systems without

requiring RTK infrastructure.

This is said to be a game-changer for offshore

survey and deep-sea fishing, as precision depth

correction for multibeam data is possible when

external corrections are not available. Further,

the MRUs are ready calibrated and

maintenance-free, reducing downtime and

providing long-term reliability for users.

Well-known for striking a balance between cost

and performance, WASSP’s multibeam systems,

which target the sustainable fishing and marine

survey markets, now achieve higher accuracy

and performance through the integration of

Norwegian Subsea MRUs.

The package is especially beneficial for

customers operating offshore, as the MRUs

compensate for vessel motion with exceptional

precision even in challenging sea states.

WASSP

SBG Systems has unveilled the world's First

MEMS-based Gyrocompassing IMU.

SBG Systems, a leader in high-performance

Inertial Measurement Units (IMU) and Inertial

Navigation Systems (INS), has introduced the

world’s first MEMS-based North seeking IMU,

capable of operating without GNSS aiding—a

breakthrough in MEMS technology.

This leap forward paves the way for future

products, including AHRS and INS solutions, to

further expand the possibilities of MEMS-based

navigation. This innovation marks a major

milestone in inertial navigation by bringing the

benefits of MEMS sensors to the world of high-

performance navigation and orientation.

This MEMS-based IMU provides unparalleled

precision, achieving a heading accuracy better

than 1° secant latitude without GNSS aiding,

and an INS heading accuracy better than 0.01°

when fused with GNSS using SBG Systems’

state-of-the-art navigation and orientation

algorithms.

Furthermore, this is a true MEMS-based

gyrocompass with no moving parts, that doesn’t

rely on carouseling, ensuring durability and

reliability in all environments.

MEMS IMU

Sonardyne has launched the groundbreaking

SPRINT-Nav U, one of the world's smallest hybrid

acoustic-inertial navigators designed specifically

for compact marine robotic platforms.

This technology delivers the proven performance

of Sonardyne's SPRINT-Nav family in a package

measuring just 135 mm tall by 114mm in diameter

and weighing only 600 grams in water.

SPRINT-Nav U represents a significant

advancement for operators of small ROVs, AUVs,

towfish and USVs, who can now access survey-

grade navigation capabilities previously available

only to larger platforms.

The system combines four critical instruments—

AHRS, DVL, INS, and pressure sensor—into a

single unit with one connector and one cable,

dramatically simplifying integration while

optimising size, weight, and power consumption.

"SPRINT-Nav U transforms what's possible for

small robotic platforms. Operators can now

conduct complex inspections

and surveys around offshore

structures, ports, and harbours

with exceptional accuracy and

reliability, without the need for

large-scale vessel

deployments," said Aidan

Thorn, Business Development

Manager – Marine

Robotics, Sonardyne.

Key features and benefits

●

Ultra-compact design:

Measuring 135 mm x114 mm

and weighing only 0.6 kg in

water (1.98 kg in air), SPRINT-

Nav U fits into spaces

traditionally occupied by just a

DVL

SPRINT-Nav

●

True north seeking: Maintains accurate

heading even in ferrous environments where MEMS-

based navigation systems struggle

●

Survey-grade performance: Delivers 0.1%

error for distance travelled during typical surveys,

with heading accuracy of 0.15°

●

Extended altitude range: 500 kHz DVL

maintains bottom lock at up to 100 m altitude

●

Rapid deployment: Aligns in just 5 minutes

with DVL bottom lock

●

Easy operation: Familiar web user interface

shared with SPRINT-Nav Mini, with outputs

compatible with third-party software

GAME-CHANGING CAPABILITIES

SPRINT-Nav U is particularly valuable for offshore

wind operations, where its compact FOG-based IMU

provides continuous, high-accuracy position,

orientation, and velocity data even when operating

in and around steel structures.

This capability enables operators to

conduct thorough inspections of

wind turbine foundations, cables, and

other subsea infrastructure without

the interference issues common to

magnetic-based systems.

"The ability to maintain accurate

navigation in and around ferrous

structures is a game-changer for

operations such as offshore wind

farm monitoring and maintenance.

SPRINT-Nav U ensures operators can

collect consistent, high-quality data

near steel components where other

systems would fail." John Houlder,

Senior Product Manager, Sonardyne.

SPRINT-NAV U

NEWS

SONARDYNE

HYPERION 32

eBOSS

EDGETECH

BURIED OBJECT

SONAR SYSTEM

• Unmatched Clarity

See through the seabed with precision

• Compact & Efficient

High performance with reduced

size & weight

• Seamless Integration

Pairs with EdgeTech 2205 for

full-spectrum obstacle detection

Advanced 3D Imaging

Beneath the Seabed

Discover the power of

broadband, sediment-

penetrating Synthetic

Aperture Sonar (SAS) for

high-resolution imaging

of buried objects.

eBOSS

Redefining subsea imaging for faster,

more effective site clearance

Seabed

What eBOSS sees

UK-based environmental

monitoring instrument

manufacturer, Teledyne Valeport

Water has released the

Hyperion32, the latest addition to

its Hyperion range of high-

performance optical instruments.

Designed specifically for inland

water and shallow marine

environments, the Hyperion32 is

depth-rated to 50m offering a

cost-effective alternative for users

who don’t require deep-sea

capability.

Its streamlined 32 mm diameter

housing also offers a lighter, more

compact form factor, making it

ideal for a broad range of water

quality monitoring applications

where space, ease of deployment

are key considerations.

The Hyperion range is an industry

leading suite of optical sensors,

packaged in Teledyne Valeport’s

signature Titanium housings,

offering precise measurement of

an ever-increasing number of

parameters. With the Hyperion32,

Teledyne Valeport Water delivers

the same trusted optical

performance found in the original

Hyperion, now optimised for

shallow marine, inland and

industrial water operations.

The Hyperion32 is a versatile

sensor ideal for a wide range of

users, including: environmental

monitoring, academic research,

agriculture, municipal water

management, industrial

compliance, conservation,

aquaculture, and civil

engineering—anywhere precise

shallow water data collection is

essential.

“This new sensor offers the same

trusted optics as our deep-water

Hyperion, in a smaller, lighter, and

user-friendly form. It’s a practical

solution for professionals who

require precision and reliability—

without investing in deep-sea

capabilities they don’t need,” said

Nick Smedley, Business Manager

at Teledyne Valeport Water.

TELEDYNE VALEPORT

Hyperion 32

Kraken Robotics has received new orders totalling

more than $3 million for Kraken Synthetic

Aperture Sonar (SAS).

The Kraken SAS systems will be integrated on

small and medium-class uncrewed underwater

vehicles (UUVs) for clients in Asia Pacific, Europe,

and North America.

"Kraken SAS enables clients to significantly

increase the capabilities of their uncrewed

platforms, providing a larger swath with consistent

high resolution, enabling missions to be

completed faster and more accurately."Greg Reid,

President and CEO of Kraken Robotics.

One of the orders is for the University of Southern

Mississippi's Roger F. Wicker Center for Ocean

Enterprise, which will be outfitting a variety of

autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and

autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) with Kraken

SAS to support research, development, testing,

and evaluation activities Kraken SAS integrates

the capability to perform imaging and

bathymetric mapping simultaneously, offering

user selectable 3 cm x 3 cm or 2 cm x 2 cm

processing and increased ranges up to 200 meters

per side.

Its flexible, modular design allows integration

across all small, medium, and large diameter

UUVs rated to 300 1000 or 6000m depths.

Kraken SAS Image

Ocean services provider DeepOcean has

acquired Shelf Subsea, an independent provider

of subsea services with a strong position in the

eastern hemisphere.

“DeepOcean and Shelf Subsea offer similar

services, but have distinct geographical

strongholds that complement each other. When

combined, we will provide customers worldwide

with access to a comprehensive pool of expertise

and capabilities. says Øyvind Mikaelsen, CEO of

DeepOcean.

The combined group will have approximately

1,800 employees and generate more than USD 1

billion in revenue.

Eelume has acquired the Trondheim-developed

underwater hyperspectral imaging technology

Ecotone, bringing together two Norwegian

technologies to unlock new possibilities for

ocean observation and environmental insight to

discover more.

Eelume, known for its autonomous, bio-inspired

and highly manoeuvrable underwater vehicles is

strengthening its capabilities by integrating

Ecotone’s advanced hyperspectral imaging

systems.

The acquisition paves the way for long-term,

intelligent monitoring of the marine environment

— essential for industries and ecosystems alike.

From research to real-world impact

Ecotone was founded in 2010 as a spin-off from

the Norwegian University of Science and

Technology (NTNU). Over more than a decade,

the company has developed underwater sensors

capable of mapping and characterising marine

habitats with exceptional precision.

DEEPOCEAN: SHELF SUBSEA

EELUME:ECOTONE

KRAKEN ORDER

NEWS

1-6 MWh Energy

Storage Systems

Intervention

Batteries

Wave Energy & Wind

Battery Storage

Subsea UPS &

Converter

AUV / Drone

Docking Station

Vehicle Batteries

API17F

Ocean Power & Monitoring

Transform into the cost-efficient and sustainable future

Sonardyne has been selected

through a competitive bidding

process to deliver baseline

environmental monitoring

services for the UK’s first

offshore carbon capture and

storage (CCS) site.

The company has been

contracted by the Northern

Endurance Partnership (NEP),

the developer of the onshore

and offshore infrastructure

needed to transport carbon

dioxide (CO2) from carbon

capture projects across Teesside

and the Humber – collectively

known as the East Coast Cluster

- to secure storage under the

North Sea. The infrastructure is

crucial to achieving net zero in

the UK’s most carbon intensive

industrial regions.

Sonardyne will provide

environmental monitoring, in

SEABED MONITORING LANDERS AND

ASSOCIATED SERVICES FOR NEP PROJECT

1000TH TESTING TOOL

the form of seabed landers, at key

locations above and around the

subsurface Endurance site – the

saline aquifer located 145km off

the coast of Teesside where

captured CO2 will be stored.

Monitoring of the site will begin in

the summer of 2026 to provide

baseline data for a duration of

two years before the

transportation and storage of

captured CO2 commences. The

seabed landers will be equipped

with Sonardyne’s Edge data

processing application, power

management and acoustic

through-water communications to

enable long-term, remote battery-

operated deployment.

Each lander will also contain a

suite of hardware including

Sonardyne’s Origin 600 ADCP,

Wavefront’s passive sonar array

and multiple third-party sensors.

Together, this technology can

detect small changes in water

chemistry across a wide area,

while the data can be harvested,

without retrieving the lander,

using wireless subsea acoustic

communication techniques.

Monitoring is a key activity for

offshore CCS developments

to verify safe containment

of CO2 within the

reservoir, provide

reassurance to

stakeholders and foster

public confidence in this

greenhouse gas

abatement process.

Sonardyne will

provide seabed

landers at key

locations around

the subsurface

Endurance site.

C-Kore Systems is celebrating

an exciting milestone with the

deployment of their 1000th

subsea testing tool, to Australia.

This significant achievement

was marked by the mobilisation

of the C-Kore tools to an

Australian offshore energy

project for one of their key

customers, Fugro.

Australia is one of C-Kore's

largest markets, where their

tools are helping oil and gas

operators save money by

simplifying their subsea testing

operations.

C-Kore's subsea testing tools

have quickly become a game

changer in the offshore oil and

gas industry, earning

widespread recognition with

both operators and contractors

for their quick and accurate

results. The ease of use of the

battery powered autonomous

units means specialised

offshore personnel are not

required to accompany the

units, equating to big cost

savings on offshore testing

campaign.

NEWS

SONARDYNE

C-KORE

C-Kore receiving the King’s Award

Sentinel

The global oceanographic

community is invited to gather in

Woods Hole this autumn for the

SLOCUM GLIDER USER'S

CONFERENCE, taking place

October 7-9, 2025. This three-

day event will bring together

Slocum glider users, marine

scientists, engineers, and

dignitaries for a collaborative

exchange of knowledge,

innovation and mission

collaboration.

The conference will culminate in

the official launch of the Sentinel

Mission on October 10, featuring

REDWING, the first autonomous

underwater glider that will

embark on the first ever AUV

mission to autonomously

circumnavigate the globe.

"This conference is more than a

technical gathering—it's a

celebration of innovation and a

launchpad for a mission that will

redefine what's possible in ocean

exploration," said Shea Quinn,

Slocum Glider Product Line

Manager.

CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS

●Expert Panels & Technical

Sessions on topics such as long-

endurance missions, passive

acoustic monitoring, storm

gliders, and under-ice operations.

●Advanced Training with sensor

vendors and glider specialists.

●Live Presentation and Poster

Sessions from the global glider

community.

●Networking Opportunities with

NOAA and WHOl leadership,

state officials, and academic

researchers.

The Sentinel Mission: A Global

First

The Sentinel Mission, a

collaboration between Teledyne

Webb Research and Rutgers

University to complete the first-

ever global circumnavigation with

an autonomous underwater

vehicle, is supported by NOAA,

the UN Ocean Decade, and the

Marine Technology Society. The

mission will launch from Woods

Hole on October 10, 2025, with

the deployment of REDWING, a

specially outfitted Slocum

Sentinel Glider.

The mission aims to:

●Demonstrate cutting-edge

oceanographic technology

●Promote STEM education and

student-led research

●Support global ocean

monitoring and climate science

Rutgers undergraduate students

are actively involved in planning

the glider's route, accounting for

ocean currents, recharge stops,

and geopolitical considerations.

The mission will also feature a live

online flight viewer, branded

outreach campaigns, and

educational content to engage

the public worldwide.

TELEDYNE MARINE TO HOST SLOCUM

GLIDER USER’S CONFERENCE

The new Teledyne Valeport pH

sensor developed in

collaboration with ANB Sensors,

introduces a cutting-edge, self-

calibrating solution for robust,

reliable pH measurements in

ocean monitoring. This

innovative sensor redefines how

pH is measured over extended

periods of time, offering a

powerful alternative to

traditional glass electrode

technology.

Traditionally, pH measurements

have used glass electrode

technology. While highly

accurate, this method requires

frequent instrument calibration

to prevent reference electrode

drift, resulting in lengthy sensor

downtime. Glass electrodes are

also more fragile and require

storage in very specific

conditions.

Unlike conventional pH sensors,

the new Teledyne Valeport pH

leverages Teledyne Valeport’s

respected engineering

expertise and ANB’s patented

calibration-free technology to

Teledyne Valeport

pH sensor

SELF-CALIBRATING PH SENSOR

create a leading pH sensor.

This advanced sensor is self-

calibrating, preventing

instrument downtime, reducing

calibration-related costs, and

significantly extending

deployment periods. The sensor

is also highly durable and easy to

store, making it a resilient and

superior alternative to traditional

pH sensors.

Engineered for versatility, the

sensor is rated to depths of up

to 1250m and delivers

exceptional accuracy of ±0.1 pH.

Its rugged titanium housing

ensures reliability in harsh marine

environments, making it suitable

for a wide range of applications,

including: fixed site monitoring,

buoys and frames, ROVs, AUVs

and ASVs.

What sets the Teledyne Valeport

pH sensor apart is its

combination of simple

operation, robustness, and ease

of handling and storage. It is

particularly well-suited for long-

term deployment scenarios due

to several unique features:

●

Robust solid-state

technology - for durability in

extreme marine conditions

●

Reference drift

compensation - to maintain

accuracy over time

●

Calibration-free

operation - in situ self-calibration

eliminates the need for frequent

recalibrations

●

Bio foul solution - a low

concentration of biocide is

produced at the sensor head to

keep the transducer clean and

ensure reliable data collection

●

More responsive

temperature compensation -

improving measurement accuracy

in varying ocean conditions

Designed with practicality in

mind, the Teledyne Valeport pH

sensor features Valeport’s

signature titanium housing and

measures 204mm in length with a

diameter of 47mm. It operates on

9-28V DC power with a

consumption of <32 mA @12 V

DC and weighs less than 1 kg in

air.

NEWS

TELEDYNE VALEPORT

SPRINT-Nav

The ultimate solution for

underwater navigation

Imagine a navigation system that delivers unparalleled precision, eﬀortless integration

and reliable performance for every operation. The SPRINT-Nav family oﬀers a

class-leading, all-in-one subsea navigation solution for all marine robotics and

autonomous vehicles.

Want to take your marine robotics operations to the next level?

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Sonardyne.com

Teledyne Marine recently

unveiled its Compact

Navigator, a ground-breaking,

ultra-compact and advanced

autonomous integrated

navigation solution that

redefines performance in a

small form-factor.

“Extreme optimisation on size,

weight, power, performance,

and functionality makes the

new Compact Navigator

revolutionary,” said Rolf

Christensen, Head of Product

Management at Teledyne

Marine.

"It’s ultra-compact design,

high-accuracy, premium

titanium construction, and

ability to operate in

challenging acoustic

environments make it the new

‘go-to’ choice for operators

requiring reliable, high-

performance navigation in both

subsea and surface

applications.

It is Ideal for small vehicles, it

enables inspection and survey

applications not previously

achievable."

Available in two depth-rated

versions—4000m and 300m—

the Compact Navigator has

been developed using unique

Teledyne Marine technology by

navigation experts and in

consultation with key ROV and

AUV companies.

KEY ADVANTAGES

• World's Smallest High-

Accuracy Navigator – Measures

COMPACT NAVIGATOR

only Ø114mm x 135mm, fitting

within the volume of most

standalone DVLs, while still

outperforming much larger

navigation systems

• Ultra-Low Power Consumption

– Uses less than 7W, a

breakthrough in energy

efficiency. Allowing missions to

last longer and extending the

time before a vehicle needs to

surface.

• Seamless Integration – A single

lightweight unit with minimal

cabling simplifies installation,

reduces costs, and frees up

valuable space on compact

vehicles.

The Compact Navigator’s fully

autonomous operation

eliminates the need for external

aiding or operator intervention,

ensuring ease of use. It also

features comprehensive

connectivity, with power,

Ethernet, dual triggers, and serial

connections accessible via a

single connector.

The advanced phased array DVL

technology enhances

performance while maintaining

its compact size, allowing the

instrument to sit flush with an

AUV or ship hull.

Designed for versatility, the

Compact Navigator supports a

wide range of applications, from

ROVs and AUVs to shallow water

surface navigation, GNSS-denied

environments, and dynamic

positioning for surface vehicles.

It combines true North-seeking

gyrocompass-grade

performance with a rich WebUI

for integration, operation, and

troubleshooting. With a factory-

calibrated design and battery

backup option, it ensures high

reliability in demanding

environments.

Unlike traditional surface

navigation systems, the Compact

Navigator operates

independently of GNSS, making

it resistant to jamming or signal

loss. This breakthrough is

particularly crucial for shallow

water navigation, where

traditional GNSS-dependent

systems can fall short.

As autonomous surface vehicles

become more prevalent, a

robust and independent

navigation solution like the

Compact Navigator becomes

increasingly vital.

NEWS

TELEDYNE MARINE

STINGRAY

Dynamic Load Monitoring has

launched a new Acoustic

Positioning Grapnel called

Stingray.

It is positioned at the rear of a

train of multiple grapnels and

towed behind the vessel when a

pre-lay grapnel run (PLGR) is

being undertaken. It is located

the furthest away from the ship’s

stern.

It uses acoustics to send a signal

to a vessel towing the train to

communicate where it is on the

seabed.

Stingray is 1343mm long and

308mm high with the beacon

closed; with it open, it is 473mm

high. The main body is 500mm

wide and, depending on what

type of stabiliser is fitted, it is

900mm or 1500mm wide.

While there is only one body size,

there will be options in that

customers will be able to fit

different sized stabilisers to suit

deployment chutes. There will also

be the ability to fit different

manufacturers’ ultra-short baseline

(USBL) beacons to meet the

client’s preferences and what

receiver is already fitted onto the

vessel.

The acoustic grapnel is

manufactured from high-strength

structural steel and covered with a

special marine paint.

Martin Halford, managing director

at DLM, said: “The overall shape

of it is based on the front skid of

our wheeled detrenching

grapnel.

“As a grapnel train is being

towed it is often just assumed

that the train falls in line with the

direction and movement of the

vessel and follows the same path.

However, this is not necessarily

the case due to the length of the

tow line and also the length of

the train; the whole assembly can

wander and in some cases the

grapnel train could be outside of

the planned route.”

ACOUSTIC CORER:

REVOLUTIONARY 3D

SUB-SEABED INSIGHT

Kraken Robotics | Transforming Subsea Intelligence

www.krakenrobotics.com

Providing 3D visualization and live rendered

data, Kraken’s Acoustic Corer identifies

geohazards, stratigraphy, and boulders as

small as 0.2 m, ensuring efficient, risk-free

offshore foundation design and installation.

DLM

and the external water pressure,

preventing damage to the box

due to pressure differentials.

• MacArtney has also launched

its new SubConn Micro Circular

9-contact connector. With

enhanced features designed to

minimise signal interference,

this connector ensures optimal

data accuracy and efficient

underwater operations.

“The standard 8-contact

connector is very good for high

bandwidth data, even up to

gigabit Ethernet,“

said Jørgensen.

“Over recent years, however, we

have recognised that the

instruments currently being

developed, provide increasingly

more data and for some, even

one gigabit is not enough

anymore.

“8-contact connectors are

typically used for signal

transmission, and some users

have requested an additional

contact for enhanced security.

The ninth contact in the new

connector is intended for a

screen, providing an extra layer

of data protection and ensuring

higher bandwidth.

“We have been running tests

and found that it is possible to

get 10 gigabit of data and now,

we are establishing what kind of

cable length this will work with,

targeting harness cables for

high bandwidth sensors such as

4K cameras.”

MONITORING TRIPOD

MacArtney has designed a tripod

assembly accommodating the

growing focus on innovative and

efficient solutions for subsea

infrastructure surveillance,

spanning defence,

communication, energy

production, scientific research,

and environmental monitoring.

“We intend to use these tripods

as a base on which to attach a

variety of sensors,” said Lars

Jørgensen, Head of Product

Management. “This would

typically include a number of

hydrophones in order to listen

out for underwater vehicles,

divers that shouldn’t be there or

possibly anchors dragging along

the seabed.

“It is suitable for

attaching

hydrophones from

any manufacturer.

MacArtney

tripod

assembly

We are currently working with a

new model from a Dutch

company: Optics11. These are

purely fibre optic, and as such,

there are no electronics. A

benefit of this is that signals can

travel great distances.

“Aside from the exhibited tripod,

we also construct other

geometrical frames to meet

specific sensor requirements. We

envisage the tripod and frames as

a suitable mount for subsea

cameras, sonars, oceanography

and seismic sensors or ADCP

systems.

“An important part of the

arrangement is employing our

connectivity and data acquisition

expertise. On this particular

tripod, we have also incorporated

a junction box as well as one of

our latest multiplexers.

The MacArtney oil-filled junction

box is a robust, reliable junction

box designed for underwater

applications. It is specially

engineered to withstand

harsh marine

environments and

ensure reliable

electrical connections.

The oil-filled

environment inside the

junction box

helps equalise

the pressure

between the

internal

components

NEWS

MACARTNEY

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At the recent Renewable UK

Global Offshore Wind

conference and exhibition Terry

Griffiths, Director at Aurora

Offshore Engineering (and more

importantly, a founding member

of the SUT Perth Branch), talked

on the topic of "Thar be

Dragons", sharing lessons

learned from solving really

difficult design and integrity

problems for over 4000km and

22GW of subsea cable projects

across the globe.

In many ways, the rise of the wind

industry has built on the

inherited methods developed

over many decades by the

offshore oil and gas industry and

has been motivated as much by

environmental concerns about

the need to transition to

sustainable and renewable

sources of energy, as it is based

on energy security concerns. The

offshore industry has also been

transitioning as work

opportunities in the renewables

sector grow.

While the specifics and

economics between these

industries are different, it did not

take established offshore

companies long to exploit this

market. This has an added bonus

that there are to be considerably

more turbines than conventional

offshore oil installations. There

are very broad similarities.

Instead of production platform

jackets read offshore substation

jackets. Instead of oil pipelines,

read subsea cables. And this,

contends Terry, is a trap the

industry is sleepwalking into.

THAR BE DRAGONS

“We need to stop thinking about

subsea power cables as just small

oil and gas pipelines,” he said.

“A fundamental difference is that

because of the small diameter,

typically subsea cables have

Keulegan-Carpenter (KC)

numbers (a quantity describing

the relative importance of the

drag) that are in the range of 200

to 500. The typical oil and gas

pipelines, however, have a KC

number that's in the range of 30

to 50.

“Subsea cables also typically

have much smaller Reynolds

numbers, so the hydrodynamic

models that we've inherited from

the oil and gas industry are not

correct for subsea cables, and

using these engineering formulae

can result in fundamental errors

in the physics that is very relevant

to the design.”

“The reason the way pipeline

engineering has evolved because

of the hydrocarbon fluids they

Pipeline with rock bag

NEWS

contain. Leakage has the potential

to cause catastrophic events and

environmental devastation. It was

necessary, especially in the early

days of the industry, to over-

engineer. The underlying

reliability targets inherited and

adopted in the offshore wind

sector have largely derived from

trying to prevent catastrophic

events in pipelines.

“What we need to be looking to

do is move towards bespoke

design guidelines actually geared

towards the fundamental risks and

opportunities of subsea cables."

CABLES

Cables are very important. While

they cost roughly 9% of the

project CAPEX, they represent 80–

90% of insurance claims. Despite

being a relatively modest

proportion of the project cost,

therefore, cables are a

fundamentally unacceptably large

proportion of the reason for the

failure of wind farms to deliver.

“We are proposing that the

industry moves away from a

one-size-fits-all target of

reliability and actually

progresses towards setting

bespoke cable reliability targets

that are actually fit for purpose

in carrying the amount of power

that needs to be transmitted

through each cable.

“We suspect that will drive

fundamentally different cable

layouts as well,” said Griffiths.

“We have been able to identify

that across the offshore wind

sector, cables at the bottom of

the ocean are subject to very

different metocean criteria

because they have very different

response characteristics.

“What we've been able to do on

a number of projects is actually

re-evaluate the metocean

hindcast and redevelop fit for

purpose metocean design

criteria to suit the response

characteristics of the cables.“

CONSERVATIVE DESIGN

Since the early years of the

offshore industry, engineers have

adopted conservative

assumptions in the input

parameters.

“When it comes to subsea cables,

however, we repeatedly find there

is no universally conservative bias

that can be adopted. We can look

at the Goldilocks principle.”

In the eponymous fairy tale,

before Goldilocks went into the

house of the bears, she didn't

know which bowl of porridge or

which chair or which bed was the

right one for her. She had to try all

three.

“Similarly, the way in which we go

about designing subsea cables

needs to also stop making the

erroneous assumption that we can

both second guess and correct for

bias in each of the input

parameters. We need to model

these on a case-by-case basis until

we have reliable information.

“We recently carried out some

investigations on subsea cables

being installed for the Hollandse

Kust offshore wind farm in the

central North Sea to actually look

at what happens to real cables in

the real ocean conditions.

“That cable laying on the surface

was originally predicted to be

unstable, however using the

STABLEpipe design methodology

it was predicted that in reality the

cables would rapidly embed into

the seabed due to scour and

erosion.

Within the space of a couple of

hours after the cable was laid,

ROV images showed sand being

ejected out from under that

cable. The result was that the

cable rapidly became self-

embedded into the seabed and

thus became profoundly stable.

At adjacent locations on those

cables, where they crossed

existing assets (pipelines, cables)

buried in the seabed, they were

required to install hollow sleeves

on the outside of the cable to

guarantee separation with the

existing assets.

“Those hollow sleeves were

actually free to roll around the

cable which effectively meant

that the CSS, (crossing

separation system) was free to

roll backwards and forwards. This

made it profoundly and

fundamentally unstable.

Using our knowledge of cable

scour meant the crossings could

be installed with confidence,

knowing they would self embed.

“By analysing videos taken on

site, it is possible to observe the

rate at which sand is being

ejected out. This meant the

scouring was occurring

underneath that cable as

predicted.

“Again, within the space of 6–

12hrs, that system self-

embedded into the seabed and

became fundamentally stable

and did not move laterally.”

“When the installation

contractor returned to undertake

permanent stabilisation works of

the crossings, they found that the

cables and CSS had Indeed self-

embedded Into the seabed and

remained stable.

Elsewhere in Scotland, the group

have been looking at the power

cables that connect the UK's first

tidal stream energy project to the

grid - the MayGen tidal stream

project owned by SAE

Renewables.

“It is clearly possible to see the

extent to which these bare cables

- with no added external

protection applied to them, have

naturally found nooks and

crannies in the seabed into which

they have become wedged and

thus become self-stable.

“The seabed is characterised by

hard rocks and thus, the cables

could not buried. Instead, they

have been placed on the bare

rock surface. The rock was not flat

and on a smaller scale, had cracks

and boulders distributed across

the surface.

“Conventional wisdom would

suggest that the cables would be

free to slide across the surface

but upon investigation, the cables

embedded themselves between

the boulders and undulations and

ultimately self-stablised on the

seabed.

“It is critical to understand and to

learn by looking carefully at what

is happening in the ocean,

understanding the relevant

physics and then tailoring the

engineering solutions to suit.

“When applying the relevant

physics to the design, we

wind up being able to show

some rather extraordinary

outcomes that these cables

are actually self-stable.

“This is not what you would

expect if you just inherited

the oil and gas design

methods, and based on the

different sets of ROV footage

we've actually got proof when

we've taken the design

methods that were inspired

by watching the Maygen

cables and we've been able

to apply them to now two

offshore wind farms off the

Atlantic coast of Europe that

have been developed on

entirely rocky seabeds.

“It was a career highlight to

stand on the cliffs at Le

Croisic near St Nazaire and

look out towards France's first

offshore windfarm a few

weeks after it was

commissioned.

This project demonstrates

what we are advocating - that

the offshore renewables

industry actually needs new

design guidance that is

actually fit for purpose for

subsea cables.

They need to be based on a

new mindset a new paradigm

for how we go about setting

the target risk and the target

reliability for subsea cables so

that we one lower the cost

but two improve the

performance of cables.

NEWS

LUXUS IP CAMERA

This feature enhances versatility,

simplifies integration into various

systems, and improves usability in

diverse underwater applications. A

12-24 VDC supply powers the

camera and consumes only 3.5

W, making it energy-efficient

for prolonged use.

The increasingly streamlined

design of underwater

technology solutions

demands advancements in

instrumentation, equipment,

and systems development. A

primary focus during the

development of the new camera

was creating a compact housing

without compromising

performance, which MacArtney's

skilled engineering team achieved

with innovative design techniques.

Compared to previous models in

the LUXUS range, the new

Compact IP camera stands out with

its smaller size and IP feature,

offering enhanced integration

capabilities and improved

performance. The camera features

a ½ 8in Progressive Scan SONY

STARVIS CMOS sensor, providing a

resolution of 1920x1080 at 25fps

(2mp).

The LUXUS Compact IP camera

offers a horizontal angle of view

of 95.0° in air and 72.0° in water,

with a focus length of >0.5m

(F2.0). It supports multiple

control options, including

ONVIF (S), and features fully

automatic or manual gain and

exposure settings.

The camera's minimum

illumination is 0.05 Lux,

ensuring high-quality imaging

even in low-light conditions.

The housing is sandblasted

titanium for enhanced durability

and corrosion resistance,

consistent with the other

cameras in the LUXUS Compact

range.

Positive user feedback

"Feedback from early users has

been overwhelmingly positive.

Users have praised the camera

for its ease of installation,

compact size, and precise

image quality," said Ron

Voerman, Managing Director

with MacArtney Benelux.

SMALL FOOTPRINT, HIGH

PERFORMANCE

“The standard depth rating of

4000 metres and the low power

consumption are highly

appreciated features, and the

Subconn Micro connector

ensures compatibility with

existing systems.”

The long-term goals for the

LUXUS range include launching

a small LED and IP camera with

a higher data rate, superior

image quality, and a TrustLink

connector as standard.

MacArtney has launched

the LUXUS Compact IP camera,

our latest innovation in

underwater imaging technology.

Small, robust, and easy to

integrate, it is designed to meet

the diverse needs of

professionals across various

industries.

The new LUXUS camera

introduces IP capabilities,

enabling direct network

connection for remote viewing

and management.

LUXUS Compact IP

camera

IMAGING

SMARTSIGHT MV100

DeepSea has introduced the SmartSight MV100, the

first in its new line of cameras built specifically for

machine vision applications.

The camera system marks the company’s entry into

advanced computer vision technologies while

preserving the rugged durability that defines its

subsea products.

Optimal for systems integrating machine learning

and artificial intelligence, the SmartSight MV100

enables object recognition, navigation, and

inspection, enhancing autonomous subsea

operations with greater precision and efficiency.

Designed to meet the stringent demands of deep-

sea exploration and industrial underwater

applications, DeepSea says that its camera sets a

new standard for subsea imaging.

A Gigabit Ethernet interface ensures seamless

integration with existing platforms, while its low

power consumption extends operational

capabilities in autonomous vehicles. Its compact

form factor allows for easy manoeuvring and

portability.

The camera's lightweight design—0.44 kg in water

with a flat port and 0.37 kg with a dome port—

enhances adaptability for various deployment

scenarios. Encased in a robust titanium housing, the

SmartSight MV100 withstands extreme underwater

conditions, performing reliably at depths up to 6 km

with either the flat or dome port.

The MV100 offers sensor options

from high-sensitivity 0.4 MP to

better-than-HD 3.2 MP, all featuring

Sony Pregius global shutter

technology in both colour and

monochrome. A selection of focal

lengths from 2.3 mm to 6 mm

provides flexibility for different

imaging needs.

Compliance with GigE Vision standards, along with

support for discrete power and Power over Ethernet

SmartSight MV100

(PoE), ensures compatibility with industry

requirements. Digital input and output

channels facilitate triggering and event

synchronisation, making it highly functional

in complex underwater environments.

Compatibility with LED SeaLite SeaStrobe

lights further optimises illumination in

deepsea conditions. A dedicated sync

input and fast response times allow the

SeaStrobe to be used in machine vision

applications to freeze movement and

reduce power consumption compared to

continuous output LED lights.

Highly configurable, the SmartSight MV100

can be customised with various lens,

sensor, housing, and connector options for

seamless integration with existing systems.

The choice of optical port further allows

the MV100 to be tailored to specific

imaging requirements. The flat port offers

a reduced field of view underwater but

maintains the same optimal focus in air and

water. The dome port preserves field of

view across both mediums but achieves

optimal focus when underwater.

The dome port also allows the MV100 to

be configured to perform at depths up to

11 km.

Voyis has launched Deep Vision

Optics, an advanced optical

system designed to enhance

image clarity and sharpness in

subsea environments.

UNDERWATER IMAGING

LIMITATIONS

Underwater cameras face a

significant challenge in

maintaining focus across their

entire field of view and working

range due to the water medium.

Traditional dome viewports affect

image formation and focus,

leading to poor corner focus that

limit the usability of the camera’s

field of view. They also reduce the

depth-of-filed of the camera,

meaning both close-up and far

away targets cannot both have

optimal sharpness. The result is

image blur, reduced feature

tracking accuracy, and

inconsistencies in

photogrammetry-based mapping

applications.

THE DEEP VISION OPTICS

To address these fundamental

imaging issues, Voyis has

developed the Deep Vision

Optics, integrating an advanced

corrective optical design with

three key objectives:

VOYIS DEEP VISION

IMAGING

ELIMINATING IMAGE BLUR IN THE CORNERS

By optically correcting for the effects of the dome

viewport and water medium, the system ensures

nearly equal sharpness across the entire field of

view, allowing for full-sensor utilisation.

Enhancing Overall Image Sharpness: The new

optical system removes distortions caused by the

water medium, improving clarity not just in the

corners, but at the center as well.

Expanding the Depth of Field: With customized

optical engineering, the Deep Vision Lens enables

clear imaging of both nearby and distant objects,

crucial for precision inspections and wide-area

surveys.

BENEFITS FOR UNDERWATER OPERATIONS

Deep Vision Optics delivers industry-leading image

quality, maximising field-of-view utilisation to

enhance situational awareness for ROVs and

improve visual surveys with AUVs.

Optimised image sharpness boosts feature and

target detection, supporting machine learning

applications with reliable automated analysis.

Enhanced corner sharpness improves stability in

photogrammetry and VSLAM processes, while

higher depth of field ensures accurate

photogrammetry, reducing manual intervention

and accelerating data processing for faster, more

reliable survey results.

SETTING A NEW STANDARD IN UNDERWATER

IMAGING

Deep Vision Optics represents a significant leap

forward in underwater imaging technology,

empowering operators with the tools needed to

conduct more precise, efficient, and automated

subsea inspections. Voyis remains committed to

advancing the field of underwater vision, ensuring

that every detail beneath the surface is captured

with unparalleled clarity.

The system endeavours to produce underwater

imagery where the effects of the water medium

are entirely removed in real time.

The Observer 4K camera

enables integration into tight

platforms, and the Nova LED

panel can be adapted to

meet vehicle needs.

All Uncrewed Surface Vessels

(USVs) require a power source

and as such, any lack of

available fuel can limit their

range. Some are solely battery

powered and ideal for port

and harbour surveillance.

Others seek to exploit the

power of wind or waves.

A popular design solution is to

use solar power to charge a

battery directly. The battery

can power the vehicle at night

time and be recharged by the

sun during the following day.

Solar power means that

operational costs and

maintenance are typically low

when compared with diesel or

hybrid systems. The simplified

designs also have fewer

moving parts that reduces

mechanical failure risks.

Solar-powered vessels are also

environmentally friendly with

zero carbon emissions during

operation and minimal noise

pollution. This reduces

disturbance to marine life,

making these vehicles suitable

for conservation projects and

eco-sensitive regions.

Solar USVs also have a lower

thermal footprint, making

them less detectable in certain

defence scenarios.

The downside of the vehicles

stems from the dependence

on solar availability. There is a

reduced efficiency in high-

latitude regions or during

extended cloudy conditions.

This means that they need to

be coupled to larger high-

capacity batteries adding

weight and cost. The larger and

heavier the battery, the less

weight constraints and deck

space available for payload and

the power budget may restrict

the types of sensors and

communication equipment that

can be carried.

Solar panels are vulnerable to

corrosion, biofouling and

impact damage from debris.

Ocean conditions like high

waves and saltwater exposure

can degrade performance over

time.

Nevertheless, solar -powered

vessels have a number of

potential applications including

environmental monitoring and

oceanographic surveys such as

mapping ocean currents,

collecting weather data and

monitoring marine ecosystems.

These vessels could be used for

long-term studies of ocean

acidification, climate change

impacts and marine

biodiversity.They are also

suitable for maritime

surveillance and defence

coastal patrol, anti-

submarine warfare and mine

detection.

Many USVs such as wind and

wave-driven systems have

solar panels to provide

auxiliary power but there are

a number of vessels that use

solar power and the primary

fuel source.

SOLAR

POWER

Blue Trail Engineering launched

its prototype oceangoing ASV

from Avila Beach, California in

February earlier this year. It

successfully reached its

destination in Hawaii,

but moved on

towards Southeast

Asia.

The vessel has a

length of 2.6 m and

weighs 28 kg . Hull is

constructed of a wet

fibreglass layup co-

cured with expanding

polyurethane foam,

with G-10

reinforcements in key

locations. Solar panel

base is constructed

of 1/2" foam core

BLUE TRAIL

Blue Trail USV above….

SOLAR-POWERED USVS

ENGINEERING

laminated with carbon fibre.

Solar panel is a Sunbeam 126

which generates around 100

watts of power.

It has a carbon fibre rudder while

the is Keel fabricated from an

aluminium spine overmolded

with urethane. There is 4.5 kg of

lead in keel bulb.

The vessel is driven by a Blue

Trail Engineering MTR-2000

Motor connected to a APC Sport

8x8 propeller and controlled by a

Castle Creations Phoenix Edge 50

controller.

For Power storage, there are a

pair of Blue Robotics 14.8 V, 18

Ah (total of 532 watt-hours)

The vehicle can communicate via

a Rockblock 9603 satellite

modem.

The navigation system employs a

Arduino ESP32 auto pilot running

code developed by blue Trail

engineering. Other electronics

include a Pololu MinIMU-9 v6 for

attitude and heading, Adafruit

Mini GPS PA1010D for

positioning,

EagleTree RPM

Sensor for

motor RPM

…. And under the water

Propeller and

weighted keel

Electronics

and battery

enclosure in

the hull

Propeller and keel damaged

by a marine predator

SeaTrac has collaborated with

JASCO Applied Sciences to

deploy an advanced Passive

Acoustic Monitoring (PAM)

system aboard its SP-48 USV.

Equipped with acoustic

technology, a collapsible

directional array and heave-

compensating winch, the system

successfully detected several

endangered North Atlantic Right

Whales during trials conducted

off the coasts of Massachusetts

and Rhode Island.

The SP-48 is a persistent

Uncrewed Surface Vehicle (USV)

used to efficiently, safely and cost

effectively perform real-time data

collection and communications in

all marine environments.

It has a length of 4.8m(15.7ft

and a width of 139cm (4.6 ft). It

weighs 275kg (606 lb) and can

carry a payload of 70kg (154lb) ,

which can be fed power up to

500W. The solar cells feed into a

6.75KWh battery. This gives the

vessel a 5 kts top speed.

PAM

Traditional PAM systems rely on

towed arrays, which require

continuous vehicle movement and

limit deployment duration.

This new innovative approach

replaces the towed array with a

dipping, collapsible array that

supports “sprint and drift”

operations, enabling the USV to

collect data while stationary. This

method significantly reduces

energy consumption, allowing for

extended deployments and

broader coverage.

Between December 14, 2024, and

April 7, 2025, four field trials were

conducted in various sea states

and locations. These tests

confirmed the system’s ability to

operate reliably and autonomously

in challenging conditions while

consistently delivering high-quality

acoustic data.

SeaTrac custom-designed its solar-

powered SP-48 USV with a deep

keel to enhance stability and to

provide precise support for

JASCO’s specialised equipment.

Its 48V battery powered

JASCO’s heave-compensating

winch which was controlled by

an onboard single-board

computer (SBC) to deploy and

retrieve the collapsible acoustic

array.

JASCO’s array features a unique

collapsible design with four

adjustable arms and a fabric

damper to minimise motion

interference. When lowered, the

array unfolds into a compact

spatial configuration that

captures high-quality acoustic

data, which is streamed in real-

time to the SBC.

At the system’s core is

JASCO’s OceanObserver. Data

is processed by JASCO’s

StreamRepeater and PAMlab-

INT software packages.

Processed marine mammal

detections, ambient sound

reports, and operational

summaries are sent to JASCO’s

shore-based software for

continuous monitoring and

reporting via Iridium Certus and

Starlink satellite

communication.

The real-time reporting

capability of this USV-based

system offers a significant

advantage over traditional

gliders which require surface

events to transmit data.

The continuous connectivity of

SeaTrac’s SP-48 allows users to

remotely download data,

reconfigure detectors, and

troubleshoot the system via a

Secure Shell (SSH) 24/7.

SEATRAC

SOLAR-POWERED USVS

SeaTrac USV

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SOLAR-POWERED USVS

Open Ocean Robotics was recently

chosen to lead the $3.8 million Air Sea

Ocean Monitoring System (ASOMS).

The project brings together a group of

Canadian ocean tech companies to

improve observation and

understanding the ocean.

ASOMS will combine uncrewed boats

and aerial vehicles with smart sensors

and clean energy systems. The goal is

to create a long-lasting, low-impact way

to monitor the ocean, useful for

everything from overseeing marine

protected areas and offshore energy

sites, to improving coastal safety and

awareness.

This project is part of Canada’s Ocean

Supercluster’s Ambition 2035 plan to

grow the ocean economy.

DATAXPLORER

OpenOcean’s DataXplorer USV is

designed for persistent marine

monitoring. It can deliver real-time,

high-resolution data across diverse

ocean environments, from coastal

waters to the open sea.

Based on a composite fibreglass hull, it

has a length of 3.7m, a 0.9m beam and

the overall height is 1.8m or 1.3m above

the waterline.

One perennial problem with any

autonomous vehicle is that if it capsizes,

OPENOCEAN ROBOT

it can be very difficult to right itself.

Many vehicles solve this problem by

having a deep keel often lying a metre

or two below bottom of the hull, well

below the hull’s centre of buoyancy.

The DataXplorer, however, uses a

patented self-righting system. While it

does have a keel, it is much smaller

than many other vessels , providing it

with a draft of only 0.5m making the

vessel very useful in shallow waters.

The solar panels generate 348W of

energy and these feed 3.5kWh lithium

ion batteries (expandable up to 17.5

kWh). In total, the weight is 143 kg or

204 kg with max battery capacity.

Propulsion is provided by a 1.1KW

electric motor to give a cruising speed

of 2kts and a maximum speed of 6kts.

In total, it has a range of 100nm at

cruising speed without additional solar

input (500 nm with max optional

batteries).

A key feature of the vessel is its large

payload of up to 50 kgs or 43lit.

“The DataXplorer is equipped with AI-

powered detection systems that use

custom algorithms to identify non-AIS

vessels and track objects on the ocean

surface, said Julie Angus, CEP and Co-

Founder.

TICS

PROTECT

Another DataXplorer model, the Protect, adds

additional sensors and for such things as

increased maritime domain awareness, asset

security and illegal fishing enforcement. With

multiple thermal cameras and covert

colouring, it allows day and night time

operations in sensitive areas.

Add-on Sensors include a thermal camera

(LWIR) and towed passive acoustic array and

processing.

ENVIRO

Lastly, the DataXplorer Enviro has additional

oceanographic and environmental sensors

that can be customised for seafloor mapping,

metocean data collection and marine

mammal monitoring. It can also include a a

profiling winch, underwater cameras, or towed

sensors, it addresses a range of environmental

needs.

Add-on devices include sensors for

temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen,

chlorophyll A, pCO2, FDOM and turbidity. It

can accommodate a towed passive acoustic

array, multibeam sonar and ADCP.

“Al-powered signal processing

also classifies underwater sounds

in real-time.Called ‘Enhanced

Horizon and Underwater

Listener’, these technologies

provide advanced real-time

insights, while the XplorerView

secure cloud platform enables

real-time data access and mission

control—making it one of the

most sophisticated tools for

ocean intelligence and

monitoring.”

BASE CASE

The base case DataXplorer is

configured to measures weather

conditions, ocean currents, water

depth and water temperature. It

an also scan the horizon with its

360-degree camera and AIS

transponder.

Its core sensors cal also measure

wind speed and direction, air

temp and pressure, and it has a

single beam sonar.

DataXplorer

SOLAR-POWERED USVS

Seasats has released Lightfish Security, a

turnkey autonomous surface vehicle (ASV)

designed to support persistent intelligence,

surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions

in littoral, harbour, and open-ocean

environments.

The platform addresses critical operational

needs in maritime domain awareness (MDA),

port and coastal security, and remote

infrastructure monitoring — whether tracking

illegal fishing activity, trafficking operations, or

other emerging threats.

The Lightfish is 11.4ft (3.5m) in length by 1m

(3.4ft) wide and can be launched and recovered

in less ten minutes with man-portable

components. It weighs 367lb (166 kg)n and

therefore, no shipboard crane or davit is

required. It has a composite hull with

retractable keel for storage.

The vessel has a range of over 6000 nautical

miles, cruising at a speed of 2kts (max 4.5 kts). It

is operational up to Sea State 6 and fully self

righting. Power is generated by a Torqueedo

1103 electric drive.

The Lightship receives power from a 415W solar

collector and this is fed to a 4.0 kWh lithium-ion

battery. There is also a built-in supplemental

methanol fuel cell which provides 100 W of

boost power on demand.

For communications, it has a Starlink, Iridium

Cetus and cellular system with optional MANET

radio. For navigation and sensing, it has 5x

onboard HD cameras, GNSS/GPS, IMU,

compass, 2D LiDAR, AIS send/receive, tricolour

navigation light. There is also a collision

avoidance automated AlS sense and avoid plus

LiDAR object detection.

The sensor package can include Marine

radar, HD and thermal cameras, AIS broadcast/

receive, LiDAR

“ The Lightfish Security is engineered for multi-

month endurance and rapid field deployment,”

said Seasats CEO Declan Kerwin. Leveraging a

low-profile, the vessel can operate for many

months continuously, tracking vessels many

miles away without being seen itself.

SEASATS

ECHO BLUE

SOLAR-POWERED USVS

EchoBlue is a floating, non-intrusive

and eco-responsible marine drone

designed for acoustic and visual

monitoring of dolphins, particularly

in fishing areas where interactions

between cetaceans and human

activities can pose risks. It is a

hybrid object, at the crossroads of

design, science, and marine

conservation, which meets a

concrete need – to make visible

and measurable an often-ignored

reality– that of interactions between

cetaceans and industrial fishing.

A BIO-INSPIRED DESIGN

APPROACH

The drone's shape is part of a

biomorphic approach. Its fluid lines,

compact dimensions and dorsal fin

directly evoke the silhouette of a

dolphin, facilitating its integration

into the marine environment while

optimising its hydrodynamics.

Its surface is covered with a layer of

soft silicone that replicates the

texture of dolphin skin using

biomimicry. This discreet and

environmentally friendly coating

reduces visual and acoustic

disturbances in the marine

ecosystem.

A DISCREET AND AUTONOMOUS

DEVICE:

The drone flies along the water's

surface following a pre-

programmed route. At certain key

points, it stops to record sounds

emitted by the hydrophone down

to a depth of 15m. A surface

camera and an underwater camera

complete the visual data collection.

The system operates using solar

panels, emitting no noise or direct

interaction with wildlife.

The EchoBlue

developer

Célia

Granjeaud

A UNIQUE AND SCALABLE

INNOVATION:

To date, no other autonomous floating

device integrates a hydrophone that

descends to a depth of 15m into such a

compact bio-inspired structure. It is a

unique solution that is mobile,

environmentally friendly, and

accessible. It allows for close proximity

to cetaceans without disturbing them,

while generating valuable data for

research and biodiversity preservation.

This project embodies a strong desire:

to reconcile design, technology, and

ethics, to promote better coexistence

between humans and the marine

environment.

Currently, EchoBlue is a first functional

prototype, used in manual mode. It

already collects acoustic and visual

data on the surface and underwater

thanks to its onboard sensors.

In the near future, the goal is to make it

fully autonomous: programmed

navigation, stops at listening points,

automatic sensor deployment, real-

time data transmission, etc, while

maintaining a minimal ecological

footprint.

Dimensions:

99 cm long

Onboard systems: Hydrophone (15m long),

surface camera

underwater camera

Power supply:

Solar panels integrated

into the surface. These recharge the internal

batteries, extending the vehicle's autonomy

during multi-day sea missions.

Project History: EchoBlue was designed as

part of a design graduation project, with the

aim of combining technological innovation,

conservation, and sustainable design. The

design process was carried out in

collaboration with marine experts and field

users. The project adopts a participatory

approach, soliciting feedback from biologists,

fishermen, engineers and citizens to improve

its functionality and relevance.

EchoBlue is currently supported by two

sponsors: ROV Expert, a company specialising

in underwater exploration and robotics, which

donated electronic components, and One

Ocean, an initiative committed to ocean

conservation, which is supporting the project

by offering me the opportunity to conduct

tests in the open sea with cetaceans.

Applications and potential:

EchoBlue can be used by many stakeholders:

Scientists:

Non-intrusive

observation of marine

wildlife

Authorities/NGOs: Passive monitoring of

sensitive areas

Educational:

Awareness-raising and

environmental education

“In the long term, the device could contribute

to acoustic mapping, noise pollution analysis,

and the active protection of marine

biodiversity, said developer Célia Granjeaud.

“EchoBlue is not just a technical object: it is a

living, evolving platform, deeply rooted in a

responsible and committed design

approach.”

This solar-powered autonomous

USV was designed entirely from

the ground up with autonomy,

efficiency, and versatility in mind.

Measuring just under 2 meters

SOLAR S

(199 cm) in length, it complies

with Transport Canada’s under-2m

regulation for uncrewed vessels—

compared to the more common

2.4-meter threshold in many other

countries.

Its self-righting hull can be

configured as either a trimaran or

monohull, depending on mission

requirements.

The trimaran setup supports a

ENTINEL

200-watt solar array, ideal for

running power-intensive sensors

and payloads. The monohull

version offers a more compact

profile and accommodates a 100-

watt solar array.

Despite its compact footprint, the

vessel is exceptionally efficient. It

consumes less than 5 watts to

cruise steadily at 2 knots (≈4

km/h), and reaches a top speed

of 4 knots on just 120 watts. At its

core is a custom immersible

motor with ultra-low KV for

direct-drive efficiency,

corrosion-resistant ceramic

bearings, and a vacuum-potted

stator and rotor to ensure long-

term durability in saltwater

environments.

For communications, the boat

comes equipped with LTE and

Iridium Short Burst Data (SBD)

as standard, with an optional

upgrade path to Starlink. A

future update will enable

direct-to-cell Starlink

operation, providing seamless

nearshore and offshore

connectivity via a single

modem.

The platform is designed for

accessibility and

customisation—whether for

researchers, educators, or

government users. It runs

open-source ArduPilot

software, supported by a

Raspberry Pi Compute

Module 4 (CM4) companion

computer.

All platform software will be

made open-source, allowing

full integration of third-party

sensors, mission logic, and

automation workflows.

Initial sea trials are underway,

with the first production run

launching shortly. This solar

USV is purpose-built for clear-

sky environments, ideal for

long-duration missions where

solar availability is high. It

complements our wind-

powered sailing USVs, which

excel in cloudy or winter

conditions

Trimaran version with solar

panels included

Royal IHC has recently delivered a

new version of Its successful "Hi-

Traq" subsea trenching vehicle

range, the "Amphibious Hi-Traq

Jetter" to Caldwell Marine

International (CMI). This newbuild

subsea vehicle is the first of its

type and will be owned and

operated by the specialist US

cable installation contractor,

becoming a key tool in its

extensive arsenal of equipment.

The scope of this contract award

included the Jetting vehicle with

eductor system, combined power

and control cabin complete with

latest SCADA system, power/

control umbilical and a special

purpose umbilical reeling system.

AMPHIBIOUS HI-

“The evolution of the design of

the Hi-Traq Jetter can be traced

right back to the i-Trencher,

currently owned and operated by

Helix,” said Robert Haylock,

Business Development Manager,

Subsea Technologies. “Delivered

in 2009, i-Trencher is still

operating successfully today and

has an unrivalled track record of

installing subsea power cables

worldwide.

“Post delivery of the i-Trencher,

Royal IHC invested millions of

pounds into R&D to discover if

subsea tracked trenching vehicles

of the time could be

fundamentally improved upon.

That process identified two key

problems: firstly traction related

Issues caused by the

exclusive use of the

classic ridged two-

track system.

Secondly was the potential loss of

vehicle control whilst cresting large

undulations In sea

beds such as sand

waves.

“It is logical to

assume that when

encountering a

completely flat,

relatively firm sea

bed, a two- track

vehicle generates

excellent traction,

but how often in

the real world Is

that the case?

More likely, sea

bed conditions

can be more problematic, with soft

soils, steep slopes or challenging

undulations.

In those circumstances a

traditional two

tracked system

Amphibious

Hi-Traq Jetter

Two tracks per side

makes the vehicle

more manoeuvrable

than a single track

TRENCHERS

-TRAQ JETTER

Hi Traq 1600

will experience challenges

maintaining traction. For example

in an undulating sea bed scenario,

where a track spans two sand

wave peaks, track contact Is lost

between these peaks leading to a

significant reduction In available

traction.

This loss of traction can lead to

slow progress for the vehicle and

at worst lead to a requirement for

vIntervention and recovery. Where

the vehicle Is peaking the crest of

a large sand wave, a two tracked

system can experience a total

momentary loss of control as it

pivots from the upward to the

downward faces. This loss of

control poses a serious threat to

the Integrity of the cable and to

the vehicle Itself".

“Many cable burial operations

take place in notoriously harsh

shallow water environments that

have high wind and wave

energies that lead to undulating

sea beds.

Traditional two track

technologies may struggle with

such demanding conditions,

leading to a risk of project

delays, Inadequate burial

performance and ultimately,

increased costs for the

contractor".

Demonstrator vehicle Tackling

these potential risks is where the

idea of a four-track vehicle with a

self-levelling capability

originated. Such a platform

would maximise traction and

enable a constant trench depth

to be maintained independent o

the seabed topography over

which the vehicle is manoeuvring.

“The constant ground contact

delivered by the four-track

system offers the best possible

traction performance, resulting in

consistent and higher speed

trenching rates through arduous

topography and soil conditions.

In combination, the patented

self- levelling system maintains a

vertical, flat-bottomed trench,

significantly reducing the risk of

point loading the product.”

Royal IHC developed a

demonstration vehicle to

successfully test and prove the

benefits of a four-track system.

Hi-Traq Jetter during trials

This demonstrator vehicle can still be viewed

today at their facility at the Port Of Blyth in the

North East of England.

The next phase in the development was to

produce In- house a full-scale, workable vehicle.

That vehicle was to become the Hi-Traq 1600,

which is now owned and operated worldwide by

Aratellus under the name “Leviathan” (see

separate story).

Although focused on power cable burial the Hi-

Traq 1600 is also capable of trenching a wide

range of products including umbilicals, flexibles

and ridged pipelines for the offshore Oil & Gas

market.

The High-Track 1600 featured multiple

capabilities such as jetting and cutting.

Generally, the cutting process benefits from a

significant amount of vehicle weight and as

such, the trencher was designed to weigh-In at

around 70t.

Jetting however, does not require as much

vehicle weight so when Royal IHC saw a market

requirement for an advanced, jetting-specific

tracked vehicle, their specialist Subsea

Technologies team undertook the development

of a new, smaller, lighter vehicle, which

ultimately became the Hi-Traq Jetter.

“The Hi-Traq Jetter is no less capable as a

jetting vehicle than its larger ‘predecessor,” said

Haylock,“ and still uses the patented field

proven self- levelling four-track concept, but it is

considerably lighter at around 20–25t.

Demonstrator vehicle

”This resonated with New-Jersey-

based Caldwell Marine International

(CMI), a company focused, amongst

many activities, on the shallow water

aspects of windfarm cable

installation.”

CMI had considerable experience

using surface-supplied jet sleds, but

were keen to embrace the

advantages offered by a tracked

subsea vehicle, especially one that

was crane launchable and "surface-

supplied" with Its jetting pumps

installed topsides on the support

vessel – an arrangement they were

very familiar with. A keynote is its

modularity

“A key USP of the Hi-Traq Jetter

range is that there are two main

variants: the surface-supplied

amphibious Hi-Traq Jetter and the

deep-water Hi-Traq Jetter,” said

Haylock.

“Whilst being completely

independent vehicles, they are

almost identical, sharing a vast

amount of design features and

components. Whereas the

Amphibious Jetter can operate from

the beach down to around 80m, the

deep-water version includes all of

the subsea pumps, HPUs, etc, to

operate in deeper waters.

“It effectively takes over where the

amphibious vehicle leaves off and

can operate down to around 2000m

water depth.

“Between the forward and aft

levelling system of each vehicle is a

core central chassis. This chassis is

simply pinned Into place, meaning

that should a customer require both

TRENCHERS

Amphibious Hi-Traq Jetter

the shallow-water and deep-water

capabilities, they have the option of

simply buying one vehicle but two

central chassis.

“Doing so comes with significant

advantages, both In terms of cost

and operations. Going from shallow

to deep water project phases, an

operator will simply unpin the

central chassis, remove the shallow-

water section, and pin Into place

the deep-water chassis.

“Of course, some additional

equipment such as a power cabin

and umbilical would be required for

the deep water Hi- Traq Jetter, but

ultimately, a very significant

proportion of the vehicle can be

used for both applications which is

one of the major advantages of the

Hi-Traq Jetter vehicle”

Serious consideration has also been

given to storage and

transportation.

“By disengaging the simple pin

connections, it Is designed to be

broken down into standard sized

shipping containers, making it

easier and less costly to store and

to mobilise to site, wherever that

may be around the globe.The

Industry feedback we are receiving

is extremely positive.”

The USA looks like a growing

market for the jetter. US East Coast

wind farm developments are driving

demand for innovative subsea

trenching solutions.

The industry there is evolving

rapidly, and operators are looking

for tools which are cutting-edge,

cost effective, reliable and practical.

Simultaneous lay and trench with a typical power

cable plough has been the typical cable lay

approach for most buried telecommunications

cable and now subsea power cables, mainly export

cables. This , however, could be a less practical

option when compared to pre-trenching. So says

Lee Screaton of S&A Associates.

“Simultaneous lay and trench is the process of

cable lay whereby the cable is laid into a subsea

cable plough that immediately buries the cable

into the seabed as it is towed behind the cable lay

vessel,” he said

“The problem with this method is that power

cables have a far larger diameter than telecoms

cables with a minimum bend radius (MBR) of

between 4m and 5m. Furthermore, power cables

are arguably more fragile than telecoms cables

due to the combination of large diameter, high

density and construction elements such as the

‘paper’ insulation layer.”

There are numerous advantages of simultaneous

lay and trench.

●

The cable is immediately trenched so

unlikely to be damaged as it waits for trenching

●

The whole lay and trench operation occurs

from one vessel

These advantages were, and still are, great for

tele-communications cables but they don’t

translate as well to the power cable installation

operation.

When viewed from the power cable installation

perspective, however the disadvantages are:

●

Power cable ploughs are larger than

telecommunications ploughs due to the far larger

MBR and usually need 150Te of bollard pull (for

2m+ trenching) making for a more powerful cable

lay vessel or dual vessel laying with an offshore tug

in tandem with the cable lay vessel

●

The standard approach of loading cable

into the plough on the vessel and launching with

the cable through the plough is less desirable as the

launching process can damage the cable outer

serving layer

●

It can be difficult to perform some

ploughing operations, such as changing heading, as

the overboard tension of a power cable should be

lower than telecoms cable due to concerns over the

fragility of the cable.

This can lead to issues such as not being able to lay

power cable directly into the bellmouth of the

plough

●

The back deck of a power cable lay vessel

can be congested and multi-role when compared to

a telecoms lay vessel so it isn’t easy to find space for

the power cable plough. This can lead to additional

systems such as movable mezzanine decks, etc.

Various approaches have been developed to offset

the plough related problems such as subsea loading

using grabs or ‘top loading’ techniques which avoid

the launching issues but they are not common and

have their own problems.

Is the answer to shift the emphasis to pre-trenching

instead?

In the context of this article, the term “pre-

trenching” is intended to imply the use of a plough

that creates a V shaped trench in the seabed that the

cable lay vessel lays the power cable into as a

separate process.

Practically, what this means is a pre-trenching plough

is deployed from a plough support vessel, not the

cable lay vessel, to cut the trench in the seabed.

After the trench is cut, the cable lay vessel lays

LAY AND TRENCH V PRE TRE

TRENCHERS

Fig1: Typical Simultaneous

Lay and Burial Operation

NCHING

power cable into the pre-cut trench.

Once the power cable has been laid into the trench,

the same plough is reconfigured for backfill and is

deployed again from the plough support vessel to

backfill the trench thereby covering the power cable.

This same plough could also be used for route

clearing ahead of the pre-trenching however that

depends on whether there are boulders or other

obstructions on the cable lay route.

S&A have produced a generic Standard Operating

Procedure (SOP) storyboard drawing that outlines

how pre-trenching can be approached.

The advantages of this pre-trenching approach are

●

The trenching, which is notoriously slow, can

be completed by an operationally cheaper vessel

than the lay vessel. Typically, a plough support vessel

is an offshore tug with only the ships crew and

plough team

●

The trenching can be performed off the

critical path of the project, for example when the

cable lay vessel is loading cable or deployed

elsewhere

●

The lay vessel can be a significantly less

expensive vessel in that it could be a basic lay barge

with anchors for propulsion or basic dynamic

positioning (DP)

●

The lay vessel aft deck can be optimised for

cable lay instead of requiring space for the plough,

tow cable, umbilical/ umbilical winch, LARS, etc.

●

If the trench is required to be deep or

problems are encountered during the pre-trenching

operation, the plough support vessel can perform

multiple passes until the trench is as required. The

same applies to complex cable routes that feature

direction changes that can be problematic when

installing large power cable running through a

standard power cable plough

●

The issue of MBR and damage to the cable

is effectively eliminated as the cable does not pass

through the plough

There is an obvious disadvantage to pre-trenching

in that the trench may infill while it waits for the lay

vessel or the cable, once laid into the trench, is

effectively unprotected until the backfill operation

completes. But with appropriate organisation of the

vessel availability it is believed that these periods

can be mitigated against.

It is also worth noting the increase in reports of

damaged power cable that is believed to have

occurred during installation.

“With the activity in the Far East and USA there is a

push for reducing costs and implementing "lessons

learned" from the European installation

experience,” said Screaton. “There is a lot of

newbuild activity but is bigger, more powerful, more

expensive, etc. the way to go?

“Perhaps pre-trenching could prove to be the more

cost effective, cable friendly and practical approach

for future export power cable installation?”

Figure 4: Backfilling

the trench

Figure 3: Laying

into the trench

Figure 2: Creating

the trench

LEVIATHAN

TRENCHERS

Aratellus’ Innovative 4-track

Trencher ‘Leviathan’ has

returned to the UK after a

number of years in Taiwan and

Northwest Africa on various

projects.

“Leviathan has been deployed

away from our Blyth base for

several years, engaged in a

series of consecutive projects.

The 4-Track arrangement came

into its own in Taiwan on an

inter-array trenching campaign

where the site had many large

sand waves along the cable

routes. Leviathan has the ability

to traverse sand waves and self-

level on side slopes as well as

manage crests with its

independent suspension,

without the shearing and

tipping effect 2-Track systems

typically encounter.

As a result of Leviathan’s

capabilities, the client was able

to eliminate the need for a pre-

sweeping campaign, achieving

significant cost savings whilst

maintaining cable integrity. “

Said Jamie Linton, Project

Director for Aratellus.

“It’s great to be able to

demonstrate the effectiveness

of the 4-track design and the

positive impact it can have in

these challenging conditions”

said Linton.

Leviathan is a 1600 horsepower

Trencher with the capability to

both jet trench and perform

chain cutting in a wide range of

conditions.

Leviathan

Underwater technology and services

company SMD is celebrating a significant

milestone with the sale of its 100th plough.

The Plough M has been purchased by

Global Marine, a market leader in subsea

cable installation and maintenance, to

support its worldwide operations.

The sale is the latest in a series of

collaborations between the two

companies. Over the last 30 years, SMD

and Global Marine have partnered on 27

projects, and countless more equipment

upgrades and refurbishments, delivering

innovative technology that continues to

shape the future of offshore engineering.

Plough M has successfully completed sea

trials and has now been deployed on its

first commercial mission.

“Plough M represents the latest evolution

of our plough technology, blending

decades of experience with future-focused

solutions. It has been designed for

maximum plough stability with minimum

cable handling, delivering a true 2m burial

depth for ultimate cable protection.

Thanks to a low-friction share design, this

vehicle also consumes minimal fuel to

ensure efficient and economical

operations, said Adam Batsford, Key

Account Manager at SMD

The plough is designed to work in soft

mud with the minimum capacity of 5kPa.

It has a length of 9.1 m, a width of 5.1 m

and stands 4.4 m high. It has a depth

rating of up to 2000m.

With a chassis of high strength steel, it

weighs 22 tons in air or 19 tons

submerged white. It can be used to trench

cables with a maximum diameter of 160

mm and a maximum cable bend radius of

1.5 m. The maximum repeated distance is

380 mm.

Plough M

Its trenching system employs a pair of passive

narrow parallel sided shares with repeater burial

flaps to temporarily widen trench. It has two of

265kW water jets as required.

The plough has installed hydraulic power of 15KW

and a comprehensive instrumentation package,

including cameras, on panel and tilt units, lamps

and sonar.

It is installed from a 30 ton A-frame handling

system which lowers the plough on a single wire.

The winch is rated at 64 tons to render and 35 tons

to lift. There is an optional front jet tool for specific

soul conditions, and aggressive share tip for

operations in underground.

100TH PLOUGH

JET-IT

TRENCHERS

Van Oord has added a third trencher

to its fleet with the Jet-It. This new

1300kW jet trencher has completed a

successful test campaign in the North

Sea and is now working on its first

project.

With its 1300kW installed power, Jet-lt

can efficiently bury inter-array and

export cables in sandy and light clay

substrates down to a depth of 3m.

This vehicle builds on the expertise

gained from the company's two other

units, the Dig-It and Deep Dig-It. While

these have mechanical cutting and

jetting technology, the Jet-lt uses only

jetting technology.

Drawing on the expertise gained over

the years and continuous

improvements, Jet-lt has a really high

jetting efficiency, requires less power,

less fuel and less maintenance.

The trencher is 12.8m long and has a

width of 6.7m. It stands 3.5m high and

weighs 28.5tonnes in air. Its operating

depth is 2 to 200m. It travels across the

seabed on a pair of caterpillar tracks

driven by 30kW hydraulic motors and it

is equipped with two thrusters for

orientation.

The Jet-lt is equipped with two sets of

jetting swords for cable burial at 2m

and at 3m. The two jetting swords and

the aft cable sensor can be deployed

independently. The width between the

swords is remotely adjustable from 450

to 950mm.

Those two independent jetting swords

inject into the seabed water supplied

from the two high pressure, three

JET-IT

stage, 18-in water pumps. Each pump

is driven by a 550kW e-motor and can

supply between 550 m3 at 15.5 bar and

1050 m3 at 13 bar depending on the

nozzle configuration.

As the first in the industry to use this

technique, Van Oord has equipped its

jetting tools with a unique combination

of sensors that can precisely monitor

the depth of the cable, control the load

applied on the product andconfirm the

depth of burial directly during the

burial process.

This enhanced cable monitoring

system enables a greater control and

higher burial speeds.

Survey equipment includes seven

cameras, eight lights and three imaging

sonars, as well as obstacle avoidance

and a protiling sonar. It also has four

bea

cons and a cable tracker.

The Jet-lt spread includes the Launch

And Recovery System (LARS)

composed of an A-frame and an

umbilical winch, its control cabin, the

power cabin with the frequency drives,

a dedicated data cabin with the survey

equipment and IT environment.

The whole spread is permanently

installed and connected on a

dedicated 18 x18m plattorm. This

strong integration of all the

components allows mobilisation on any

vessel in a single lift, making the

preparation more efficient, reducing

the mobilisation time and cost. The 30t

LARS enables launch and recovery up

to sea state 5.

Earlier this year, NKT completed the

ceremonial keel laying for its cable-laying

vessel NKT Eleonora that can lay heavier and

longer-length power cables. This was

designed to meet the high demand for high-

voltage power cables needed for renewable

energy.

As a natural progression, NKT is now also

investing in enhanced cable protection

technology with the construction of the

world’s most powerful subsea trencher,

delivering 3,600 horsepower to bury cables to

depths of up to 5.5m below the seabed.

This investment further strengthens NKT’s

complete cable solutions for installing power

cables at deeper depths with minimal

risk.

“Protecting power cables is more important

than ever due to the increased risk of

sabotage and high activity at sea,” said

Darren Fennell, Executive Vice President and

Head of HV Solutions at NKT.

“This trencher will be best in class, ensuring

reliable deep-burial protection of power

cables in even the most challenging soil

conditions.

The company has contracted OSBIT to design

and construct the trencher, as well as the

Launch & Recovery System.

Power:

3,600HP

Capability:

Burial depths of up to 5.5 m

below the seabed

Functionality: Equipped with both a jetting

and cutting function, allowing

it to operate in a wide range

of soil conditions

Timeline:

The trencher is expected to

be commercially operational

by 2027

NKT T3600

WORLDS MOST POWERFUL SUBSEA TRENCHER

TRENCHERS

Smart

Subsea

Solutions

• intelligent vehicles

• reliable communication

• accurate positioning

• modern sensor networks

• diver navigation systems

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