First Reach Remote vessel delivered for offshore surveys
The delivery of Reach Remote 1, a 24-metre uncrewed surface vessel (USV) developed by Kongsberg Maritime, introduces a new approach to offshore operations. The vessel is the result of collaboration between Kongsberg Maritime, Reach Subsea, Massterly and Trosvik Maritime.
Following a series of sea trials conducted under the guidance of Det Norske Veritas (DNV) and the Norwegian Maritime Authority, Reach Remote 1 is set to begin its first mission conducting underwater surveys off the coast of Haugesund, Norway. A second vessel, Reach Remote 2, is now preparing for sea trials, building on the foundation established by this initial deployment.
Bjørg Mathisen Døving, vice president Reach Remote of Reach Subsea, said: “Reach Remote is an extraordinary journey, bringing together the unique expertise of Kongsberg Maritime, Reach Subsea and Massterly and shaping the future of uncrewed offshore operations. We are thrilled to see the Reach Remote 1 set sail and prepared for its first mission.”
Kongsberg Maritime served as the prime contractor for this turnkey project, taking responsibility for vessel design, yard delivery, supply chain management, systems integration and commissioning. The company’s deep expertise in maritime technology was instrumental in bringing this innovative concept to life.
Pioneering offshore activities
“What began as a visionary idea has now become a tangible reality,” said Lisa Edvardsen Haugan, president of Kongsberg Maritime. “The Reach Remote 1 USV is a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of maritime technology. We are proud to have partnered with Reach Subsea, Massterly and Trosvik Maritime on this pioneering project. As the world transitions towards more sustainable and efficient operations, this pioneering class of vessel is poised to play a vital role in shaping the future of offshore activities.”
During sea trials the USV was monitored and controlled from a temporary, mobile remote operations centre (ROC) located onboard the support vessel Avant, which stayed close during several days of trials. When the USV starts pilot operations, Massterly, which is a joint venture between Kongsberg Maritime and Wilhelmsen, will control the USV from the land-based ROC in Horten, Norway.
A key feature of the Reach Remote USV design is its ability to operate without a crew, controlled remotely from the ROC. This approach offers significant advantages in terms of operating costs, safety and emissions, when compared to carrying out the same duties with a much larger, crewed vessel.
To ensure the highest levels of safety and reliability, Kongsberg Maritime has incorporated proven technology into the vessel’s design. The company worked closely with DNV and the Norwegian Maritime Authority to navigate the unique regulatory challenges associated with uncrewed vessels.