GONDAN Launches Uncrewed Surface Vessel at Figueras Shipyard

Spain-based shipbuilder GONDAN has celebrated the launch of its first uncrewed surface vessel (USV) at its shipyard in Figueras, Castropol. 

The advanced USV, built for Norwegian company USV A/S, a strategic collaboration between DeepOcean, Solstad and Østensjø Rederi, is a significant step forward for unmanned marine operations.

The vessel, designed by Norway’s renowned Salt Ship Design, is designed to undertake underwater maintenance and inspection missions. Measuring 24 metres in length and 7.5 metres in width, it has a state-of-the-art hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system, complemented by 500 kWh batteries. 

These features contribute to an eco-friendly performance profile, with CO₂ emissions reportedly reduced by over 90% compared to conventional vessels.

Fitted with a sophisticated suite of sensors, cameras, and antennas, the USV is engineered to perform complex tasks remotely. Its onboard capabilities include the launch and recovery of underwater vehicles (WROV) that are capable of diving to depths of up to 2000 metres. 

This cutting-edge technology is set to transform subsea operations by enabling comprehensive, real-time inspections and repairs of underwater infrastructure without the need for a crew on board.

The operational control of this remarkable vessel will be managed from an onshore Remote Operations Centre (ROC) provided by the Norwegian company Remota A/S. Specialising in remote operations and semi-autonomous maritime services, Remota will oversee both the vessel and its deployed underwater submarines from its dedicated facility. 

In a statement released by GONDAN, the company underscored the significance of the launch:

“This new built USV represents a significant technological advance that will enhance operational capabilities in maintenance and inspection work, offering high-performance solutions for missions in the marine environment and a reduction in C02 emissions of more than 90% compared to other conventional vessels”.

With increasing pressure to meet stringent emission targets and reduce operational risks, the integration of unmanned and remotely controlled vessels is set to become a key trend in the maritime industry.

The successful launch of this USV could well accelerate the adoption of autonomous systems across the sector, potentially transforming maintenance and inspection operations on a global scale.

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