Norwegian offshore services provider Reach Subsea has confirmed that the first example in a new series of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) being built for the company has been launched into the water for the first time.
Upon completion, Reach Remote 1 will have a length of 23.9 metres, a beam of eight metres, a maximum draught of 5.5 metres, a gross tonnage of 230, hull-mounted survey sensors, a moonpool, and a work-class remotely operated vehicle (ROV) powered by electricity. The USV's duties will include subsea inspection, survey, and intervention.
Two Volvo Penta D13-600 MH 441kW engines will propel the craft to speeds of up 11 knots while sailing at an average service speed of nine knots will allow it to stay out at sea for a maximum of 30 days.
Design and development on the new Reach Subsea USVs is being undertaken by Norwegian technology firm Kongsberg Maritime. Massterly, a joint venture between Kongsberg and shipping company Wilhelmsen, will be responsible for controlling and monitoring the craft from a remote operations centre via VSAT, 5G, and other wireless connections.
Kystdesign will meanwhile supply the 2.75-metre ROV.
Reach Remote 1 will be handed over to Reach Subsea before the end of this year and will operate under the Norwegian flag.
