Nauticus Robotics enters offshore service partnership with Shell

Nauticus Robotics, a developer of ocean robots and artificial intelligence for autonomous services to the offshore industries, today announced its entry into a service contract with Shell. The initial scope of work includes inspection services on a Shell subsea field development in the Gulf of Mexico, and the contract contemplates visible future inspection service projects. The contract follows Nauticus’ successful qualification phase for autonomous methods of subsea operations for inspection services. The new contract acknowledges Nauticus’ successful transition to a fully operational offshore services provider.

Aquanaut, Nauticus’ flagship autonomous subsea robot, will serve as the project’s workhorse and perform non-contact and contact inspections across an extensive subsea complex. The project features Nauticus’ first-to-market method of autonomous subsea manipulation on live subsea assets in water depths exceeding 1,000 metres. A remote pilot will collaborate with Aquanaut during the operation through Nauticus’ acoustic communications link to ensure safe operations.

Force multiplier solution

The project also features what Shell has termed ‘a force multiplier’ solution, with multiple scopes of work to be executed simultaneously from a smaller class of service vessel that would not normally engage in IMR services. Nauticus not needing an umbilical to control Aquanaut is the key enabler of the business case. In delivering this project, Nauticus and Shell will take a major step in maturing a novel approach, jointly developed by the two companies, to underwater operations that could lead to a step change in technology and service delivery for the offshore sector.

“I am incredibly pleased with the progress the team has made in our collaboration with Shell and to embark on this new project with one of the world’s leading energy companies,” said Nicolaus Radford, CEO, Nauticus. “Nauticus now has visibility of long-term IMR services work for Shell and the opportunity to become the preferred supplier for this advanced work. We recognize the significance of this opportunity with Shell and look forward to the execution of this project work.”

Preparations to execute the project required Nauticus to mature its offshore health, safety and environment (HSE) solutions and operational expertise. The offshore operational design of the project also involved a collaborative effort with Shell’s marine assurance staff and robotics innovation programme.