Exail marks milestone with first sale of DriX O-16 USV
Exail has achieved a significant milestone with the sale of its first DriX O-16, a transoceanic uncrewed surface vessel (USV). This advanced maritime asset, designed for long-range operations, has been acquired by a civil-sector customer in the Indo-Pacific region, reflecting growing confidence in autonomous maritime solutions.
Equipped with cutting-edge sensors, including a full-depth multibeam echosounder, the DriX O-16 delivers high-precision data collection for hydrographic, geophysical and environmental missions. Its capability to deploy autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) further enhances its versatility, making it a valuable tool for a wide range of operations.
“The sale of our first DriX O-16 so close to its debut is a testament to the trust our clients place in Exail’s forward-thinking approach to maritime autonomy,” said Olivier Cervantes, Exail’s vice president Maritime Autonomy Solutions. The vessel quickly set new benchmarks in efficiency, endurance and flexibility, securing the customer’s confidence just three months after its christening. “With its unparalleled combination of speed, endurance and payload capacity, the DriX O-16 represents a groundbreaking step forward in USV technology. It marks an exciting new chapter in the evolution of USVs and their vital role in shaping the future of modern hydrographic, survey and inspection operations.”
Strategic shift towards sustainability
As the maritime industry increasingly adopts autonomous technologies and low-carbon solutions, the DriX O-16 supports this shift by offering a sustainable alternative to traditional crewed vessels. Its hybrid propulsion system and optimized naval architecture reduce fuel consumption and operational costs while lowering the environmental footprint. These innovations align with the industry’s drive towards greener, more efficient practices.
The DriX O-16’s enhanced autonomy allows for extended port-to-port operations, minimizing human exposure at sea and resource demands. By combining efficiency with sustainability, it reflects the evolving priorities of the maritime sector and positions Exail as a leader in uncrewed maritime technology.
