Under the agreement, Shintoa will market, sell and support Sea Machines’ full portfolio of unmanned surface vessel autonomy and commercial ship optimization products to the Japanese market. The partnership establishes a formal in-country channel to deliver Sea Machines’ autonomy technology across both commercial and defense applications.

Founded in 1952 and headquartered in Tokyo, Shintoa has built a longstanding role introducing advanced international technologies into Japan’s industrial and maritime sectors. With a nationwide presence across major regions including Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka, the company provides the infrastructure required to support deployment and lifecycle servicing of complex marine systems

“It is an honor to be working with the Shintoa team, who has facilitated groundbreaking activity in serving the Japanese Ministry of Defense and JMSDF” said Phil Bourque, Vice President of Global Sales of Sea Machines Robotics. “This partnership is key to assisting US allies invest in asymmetric capability, an effort that requires presence, integration, and long-term commitment.”

Through this partnership, Sea Machines’ autonomy systems, including the SM300 family, will be made accessible to Japanese operators seeking to expand mission capability, reduce crew exposure, and deploy intelligent vessel operations at scale.

“We are excited to introduce Sea Machines’ advanced autonomous products to the Japanese defense and commercial markets. We look forward to building a long and robust relationship with Sea Machines,” said Andy Ogiwara, Executive Officer C.O.O. of Shintoa Corporation.

This agreement marks a significant step in Sea Machines’ expansion across the Asia Pacific region, building on the company’s prior operational deployment of its SELKIE USV in Subic Bay and reinforcing its commitment to delivering proven, defense ready autonomy solutions to allied maritime markets. In January, Sea Machines appointed a Business Development Manager, Penny Wen, based in Taiwan. Penny is charged with leading business expansion throughout Asia.

About Sea Machines Robotics
Based in the tech hub of Boston with a global presence, Sea Machines Robotics, Inc. builds autonomous vessel software and systems that increase the performance, capability, and efficiency of naval and commercial vessels.
Learn more at www.sea-machines.com

About Shintoa Corporation
Founded in 1952 and headquartered in Tokyo, Shintoa Corporation is a specialized trading house focused on aerospace, marine, and defense technologies. The company provides nationwide distribution, integration, and technical support for advanced industrial systems across Japan.

Contact: Phil Bourque, VP of Global Sales, pbourque@sea-machines.com

The post Sea Machines and Shintoa Corporation form trading agreement to serve the Japanese market, Expanding APAC Presence appeared first on Sea Machines Robotics.

The mission evaluated autonomous vessel / unmanned vessel operations in the same Indo-Pacific coastal environment where distributed maritime systems could be deployed. The operating area was later used in the distributed maritime autonomy vignette presented during Creative Disruptors in the Desert 2026, where U.S. Congressional and DOW stakeholders observed a mission scenario involving a forward-deployed unmanned surface vessel operating off the Philippine coast. 

Strategic Context in the West Philippine Sea 

The West Philippine Sea forms part of the South China Sea, one of the most contested maritime regions in the Indo-Pacific. Coast guard patrols, maritime militia activity, and territorial disputes have increased demand for persistent maritime domain awareness across large coastal areas. For the United States and the Philippines, monitoring activity across these waters requires scalable systems capable of maintaining presence without expanding resources for crewed patrol fleets. Autonomous vessels provide a method for increasing range and extending persistent maritime coverage. 

Unmanned Surface Vessel SELKIE operating in real-world maritime traffic off Botolan, Philippines.

Tropical Winter 100 USV Mission 

Tropical Winter 100 evaluated SELKIE’s endurance, navigation performance, and autonomous vessel system operation during unmanned operations in Philippine coastal waters. 

The mission followed a 100-nautical-mile unmanned route between Subic Bay and the west coast of Botolan. SELKIE departed Subic Bay as an unmanned surface vessel while operators monitored the vessel remotely through the autonomy interface located miles away in Olongapo.  

Operating in Sea State 4, the autonomous vessel maintained a cruising speed of approximately 11 knots with sprint speeds of up to 30 knots, and completed the mission over roughly 13 hours. During the voyage the USV executed long range autonomous route following while autonomously tracking and trailing potential vessels of interest, in addition to obstacle detection, and collision avoidance while navigating through typical coastal vessel traffic near the approach to Subic Bay. 

USV Operations in the Indo-Pacific 

Tropical Winter 100 demonstrated how unmanned surface vessels  can operate in real maritime traffic and environmental conditions in the Indo-Pacific. Conducted in the same waters later used during the Creative Disruptors in the Desert vignette, the mission showed how USVs can support persistent maritime domain awareness and distributed maritime operations in regions such as the West Philippine Sea. 

What’s Next 

SELKIE will continue field demonstrations over the coming months, including integration of mission payloads, effectors, and command-and-control (C2) interfaces across customer use cases. These efforts are focused on expanding operational capability and validating system performance across a broader set of mission profiles. 

For organizations evaluating unmanned surface vessel (USV) capability for maritime operations, Sea Machines is engaging with partners to demonstrate how autonomous vessel systems can be applied in operational contexts. 

To discuss demonstration opportunities or integration use cases, contact sales@sea-machines.com. 

The post SELKIE USV Validated in the West Philippine Sea During Tropical Winter 100 appeared first on Sea Machines Robotics.

Hosted by the Creative Defense Foundation in collaboration with AUVSI, the event convened senior Department of Defense leadership, acquisition executives, Congressional defense appropriators, and industry leaders to evaluate mature, deployable technologies shaping the future of American defense capability. 

Sea Machines’ role formed part of a multi-domain vignette integrating eight advanced autonomy and sensing companies into a unified mission narrative spanning land, air, and sea. 

A Live Indo-Pacific Autonomy Demonstration 

Within that broader scenario, Sea Machines executed a live distributed maritime operation connecting a forward-deployed unmanned surface vessel in the Philippines with operators in La Quinta trailing and prosecuting a suspicious contact outside Subic Bay, while stakeholders observed live in California. 

From within the United States, operators coordinated command of the vessel in real time as mission control was transitioned between ground stations in La Quinta, CA and Subic Bay. The SM300 software is also capable of “intercept” behavior, whereby operators can command the vessel to autonomously calculate and execute a converging course against a moving contact, dynamically adapting to target maneuvering and surrounding maritime traffic while maintaining collision avoidance and navigational compliance. 

Drop in Autonomy Kits  

The Sea Machines solution showcased is operationally ready and actively available for deployment. Designed and engineered by Sea Machines, the drop in autonomy kit provides end users a rapid capability to convert existing boats with Sea Machines tech within 10-20 hours. The pre-rigged kits reduce field engineering requirements.

The demonstration highlighted: 

• Secure remote supervisory control across long-distance links 

• Objective-based mission execution rather than direct teleoperation 

• Real-time perception, navigation, and collision avoidance 

• Immediate re-tasking with dynamic route recalculation 

• Scalable control of distributed unmanned maritime assets 

Why It Matters 

Operational vignettes such as those executed at Disruptors in the Desert provide government stakeholders with direct exposure to live systems operating within realistic mission contexts. These are not conceptual briefings. They are demonstrations of integrated capability under operational narrative. 

By controlling a forward-deployed vessel in the Indo-Pacific from within the United States, Sea Machines demonstrated a scalable model for distributed maritime operations. This approach expands operational reach, reduces risk to crewed platforms, and enables persistent presence without proportional manpower growth. 

As global maritime competition intensifies, American advantage depends on fielded, interoperable systems that are ready to deploy and scale. The autonomy demonstrated in La Quinta reflects a mature, operational capability engineered to support U.S. and allied maritime missions wherever distributed unmanned presence is required. 

The post Sea Machines Selected to Execute Live Autonomy Vignette at Creative Disruptors in the Desert 2026  appeared first on Sea Machines Robotics.

Carved from the shipbuilding space in 2015, Sea Machines Robotics has spent the past decade developing and deploying the world’s leading marine autonomy across fleets operating on most oceans. Over that period, the company has invested more than $55 million in venture-backed capital to develop, field, and harden a fully integrated autonomy stack. This investment addressed one of the most technically complex challenge of unmanned surface vessels such as Modular Attack Surface Combatant (MASC): reliable software–hardware integration at scale. Having completed the difficult work up front, Sea Machines is now positioned to rapidly integrate mature, field-proven autonomy into purpose-built autonomous platforms. Today, the company applies its deep shipbuilding roots to deliver a purpose-built autonomous surface ship engineered for modern naval operations. 

Introducing the STEAMRACER-class autonomous surface ship, purpose-built to meet the Navy’s immediate and future fleet requirements for fully unmanned maritime operations. Designed around our hardened, AI-enabled remote command architecture, the platform delivers high speed, extended endurance, modular open-deck payload capacity, and a secure onboard data environment to support distributed operations at scale. 

While engineered from inception for persistent unmanned execution, STEAMRACER retains the flexibility to operate in a limited, short-duration manned configuration when mission requirements dictate – providing operational flexibility without compromising its unmanned-first design. 

Florida-forged, STEAMRACER integrates mature autonomy with proven U.S. shipbuilding capacity through partnerships with St. Johns Ship Building, TOTE Services, Ring Power, Incat Crowther, and EMI-W&O reinforcing the President’s Executive Order to restore American maritime dominance and strengthen the domestic industrial base. To meet the Navy’s resilient and robust communications standards, Sierra Nevada Corporation will provide its Maritime Advanced Secure Transmission (MAST) solution, an open, scalable architecture backed by proven secure communications and cybersecurity expertise.

Aligned with Navy leadership’s call to expand MUSV production, accelerate the scaling of unmanned capability, and rapidly field maritime robotic and autonomous systems, STEAMRACER delivers a ready-now, America-First solution. The defining attribute: PROVEN capability. STEAMRACER provides validated unmanned-first capability that is operationally tested, industrially grounded, strategically aligned, and prepared to scale at the pace required for the Indo-Pacific fight. 

In an era defined by America’s pacing-threat competition with China, our Nation and our Navy cannot afford protracted development programs that delay transition, escalate cost, and fail to field capability. The strategic environment demands operational mass, speed, and scale, not prolonged development without delivery. Others prototype. We deliver proven autonomy at the pace required for deterrence in the Indo-Pacific, or wherever in the world it will be needed. 

Sea Machines stands ready. 

The post STEAMRACER-Class Autonomous Ship Advances in Major U.S. Navy MASC Program appeared first on Sea Machines Robotics.

Sea Machines now offers two SMLink APIs that support a full spectrum of missions:

• SMLink Streaming-API delivers real-time vessel telemetry and data feeds to external systems.
• SMLink Control-API grants select partners the ability to command SM300 autonomy functions directly from third-party mission software.

“We’ve been listening to end-user customers and military procurement program offices globally, and we are pleased to continue to contribute to building a customer-first product and company. While our product has always had an open architecture, we’re now providing the keys for others to integrate. We hereby invite and challenge others to collaborate and build with us.” — Phil Bourque, VP of Global Sales, Sea Machines

The SMLink APIs are available with both updated SM300 models: the SM300-SP, tailored for fast, attritable USVs and programs prioritizing volume and efficiency, and the SM300-NG, built for complex, high-specification projects aboard classed vessels.

With more than 200 SM300 deliveries across 20 countries, Sea Machines has established itself as a proven leader in defense-ready marine autonomy. The SM300 is a software enabled edge computing system that fuses with mission management tools while delivering both low-level vessel control and higher-order autonomous behaviors, even in GPS or communications-denied environments.

Headquartered in the United States with offices in Europe, Sea Machines supports naval and defense customers worldwide.

About Sea Machines Robotics

Based in the tech hub of Boston with a global presence, Sea Machines Robotics, Inc. builds autonomous vessel software and systems that increase the performance, capability, and efficiency of naval and commercial vessels. Learn more at www.sea-machines.com

Contact: Phil Bourque, VP of Global Sales, pbourque@sea-machines.com

Download press release here.

The post Sea Machines Launches Marine Autonomy APIs for Third-Party C2 Systems appeared first on Sea Machines Robotics.

SM300-SP is a special purpose hardware version of Sea Machines’ autonomy systems, built for the emerging fleets of attritable sUSVs and for those not requiring Classed-approved hardware.

SM300-NG is a new generation autonomy system that provides 200% more computing power in a smaller size form-factor.  The SM300NG continues Sea Machines’ commitment to Class-approved marine products and is available in both digital-only and digital plus analog I/O variants.

SMLink Stream/Control-APIs are two new APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) now available to allow authorized third parties to stream data from SM300 platforms, as well as control the autonomy system.  These APIs further Sea Machines commitment to open architecture and system interoperability.

FLEETVIEWER is an online fleet visualization platform that enables an easy way to view, capture, and use real-time vessel-born data, including streaming imagery.

STORMRUNNER USV is an all-new 8-meter length HDPE unmanned surface vessel, designed to deliver high-performance and high reliability on water for defense customers. STORMRUNNER has a 40-knot top speed and gives over 500 nautical miles of range carrying 1,100 lbs of payload.  Equipped with the SM300-SP and fully integrated with sensors and communications, STORMRUNNER is Sea Machines’ second USV design, following on the 7-meter “SELKIE.”

Since 2017, Sea Machines has focused on building the most advanced maritime autonomy for both naval and commercial vessels. “Sea Machines was built around commercial market needs, which simply put, means that the products must deliver immense value and reliability.  This fits perfectly with Government customers who are increasingly demanding deployable, proven systems.  The SM300 is now operating within broad fleets of unmanned naval boats, and these operators benefit by having a hardened autonomy foundation that also enables rapid development on requirements that emerge from the quickly evolving threat environments.”  Said Founder and CTO Michael Johnson.

CEO Chip Wasson said, “We are delighted to introduce these new products that provide true asymmetric advantage for US and allied fleets. Our mission has been to deliver superior naval and maritime technologies to those who protect, defend and work on water. Our team has worked relentlessly to deliver on this commitment with these new products.”

About Sea Machines Robotics
Based in the tech hub of Boston with a global presence, Sea Machines Robotics, Inc. builds autonomous vessel software and systems that increase the performance, capability, and efficiency of naval and commercial vessels.  Their flagship product, the SM300, is a time-perfected edge computing autonomy system that has earned the respect of this fast-growing global market of unmanned boats and autonomy-enabled ships. Learn more at www.sea-machines.com

Contact: Phil Bourque, VP of Global Sales, pbourque@sea-machines.com

Download press release here.

The post Sea Machines Expands Product Line for Defense Customers appeared first on Sea Machines Robotics.

Sea Machines delivers the core autonomy layer that enables precise navigation, real-time obstacle avoidance, and seamless integration with cooperative mission frameworks like Scientific Systems’ Collaborative Mission Autonomy. By leveraging the Sea Machines open architecture and software APIs, VENOM gains the ability to operate in teams, adapt to changing conditions, and maximize the ability to operate in contested environments with limited risk.

As the premier autonomy provider for uncrewed surface vehicle manufacturers, Sea Machines offers a commercial solution that is ready for serial production of over 100x units per month and is integration-friendly. Our modular approach to vessel interfacing provides a proven foundation for builders and integrators alike—accelerating development, enabling mission readiness, and reducing time to deployment.

We’re proud to support the VENOM USV and welcome domestic and international collaborations with teams building bold new capabilities at sea.

Contacts us at sales@sea-machines for more.

The post Sea Machines Powers VENOM USV with SM300 Autonomy System appeared first on Sea Machines Robotics.

The ALPV, also known as the Sea Specter, is a 65-foot (19.75-meter) semi-submersible unmanned surface vessel (USV) engineered for stealth logistics operations. Drawing design inspiration from low-profile, narcotics-smuggling craft, the ALPV offers extremely low visual, radar, and infrared signatures, making it an ideal platform for contested maritime zones. The vessel’s form factor and semi-submersibility enable discreet transport of high-value payloads with minimal detectability.

The vessel can carry between 2,000 and 4,627 kilograms of cargo over distances up to 2,200 nautical miles (4,074 km) at a cruising speed of 14.8 km/h, powered by a 230-horsepower Cummins diesel engine. The internal payload compartment spans 8.84 m in length, offering substantial volume for military resupply or mission equipment.

Sea Machines was selected following evaluation as the supplier of autonomous command and control capabilities for the ALPV, via our SM300 Autonomous Command and Control system. This system enables long-range, line-of-sight and over-the-horizon remote operations, autonomous navigation, collision avoidance, and situational awareness in contested environments. These capabilities are essential for a vessel intended to operate far from support in communications denied environments or high-risk maritime zones.

The ALPV has undergone extensive field testing since 2023, evaluated in Project Convergence Capstone 4, a major joint and multinational exercise hosted by the U.S. Army. 

Sea Machines is proud to contribute proven autonomy solutions to this advanced platform and remains committed to supporting the U.S. Marine Corps’ evolving needs for operational resilience, logistics reach, and unmanned capability in peer-contested domains. For more information about the SM300 Autonomous Command and Control system, visit: https://sea-machines.com/products/sm300-autonomous-command-control/

Contact:
Phil Bourque, VP of Global Sales
pbourque@sea-machines.com

The post Sea Machines Provides Autonomy for U.S. Marine Corps’ Autonomous Low-Profile Vessel (ALPV) Program appeared first on Sea Machines Robotics.

Looking to expand the capability of their survey fleet and overcome accessibility challenges, Measurement Sciences Inc. (MSI) decided to equip their 3-meter RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) with Sea Machines’ SM300 Autonomous Command and Control system.

This enhancement enables MSI to reduce personnel count on hydrographic survey operations by 60% and allows the vessel to access areas considered unsafe for manned vessels.

ABOUT MEASUREMENT SCIENCES INC.

Measurement Sciences Inc. (MSI), founded in 2005 and based in Calgary, specializes in professional engineering and surveying. The company employs advanced technology to serve a diverse range of clients, including oil and gas pipeline companies, land developers, power generation firms, engineering and construction companies, as well as local municipalities and provincial governments.

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Safety is a primary concern for MSI, especially when dealing with hazardous water environments such as hydroelectric dams, flood conditions, debris, swift water, toxic bodies of water, and more. Traversing these waters often requires multiple permits, consuming both time and money, and still puts personnel at risk.

In this case study, MSI conducted pipe coverage surveys at four different locations. Due to the high flow events during the surveys, using manned vessels would have been unsafe. Therefore, at the request of their customers, manned craft were not used.

SOLUTION

By converting the RIB into an autonomous vessel using the SM300 system, MSI can remotely command the autonomous boat from shore or do manual remote control. This setup eliminates the need for humans on board while still enabling the collection of survey data in the necessary areas.

WHY CHOOSE THE SM300?

Robust and reliable autonomy aside, the SM300 can be retrofitted to vessels of any size. This provided MSI the flexibility to choose a vessel that was both nimble and capable of withstanding high flow conditions, as well as accommodating the additional weight of the onboard sensors.

This is a significant advantage over many USVs available on the market, which often do not perfectly match specific needs—being either too small to handle strong currents and payloads, or too large to navigate smaller waterways.

IMPLEMENTATION

Installation

The SM300 system was installed on the RHIB, including all necessary sensors and control modules

Calibration and Testing

Extensive calibration and testing were conducted to ensure the system’s accuracy and reliability.

Training

MSI’s operators received training on using the SM300 system, focusing on remote operation using the wearable Wireless Remote Helm

AUTONOMY TAKES YOU BEYOND REMOTE CONTROL

The SM300 system not only supports remote command from shore but also offers a range of advanced autonomy features specifically designed for survey operations.

Full Autonomous Operation

Plot waypoints from the SM300 user interface or import missions from hypack or Qinsy to execute survey projects from start to finish without human intervention.

Tight & Productive Surveys

High performance control from acute position sampling to fine rudder and speed modulation provides very tight cross track error and minimizing holidays, greatly surpassing the average manual operations, increasing job productivity and efficiency.

Collaborative Autonomy

Enabling multiple simultaneous survey vessels for an expanded swath of data collection to increase productivity multi-fold.

RESULTS

Cost Savings

By eliminating the need for personnel on both the survey and rescue crafts in high-flow environments, MSI achieved a 60% reduction in required staff.

Additionally, the consolidation of operations into a single vessel instead of two (a survey craft and a secondary stand-by rescue craft) led to significant time and fuel savings.

Increased Safety

Removing humans from the physical survey location eliminates potential risks associated with being on the water.

Operators can safely manage the survey operations from shore, significantly enhancing safety.

Enhanced Accessibility

With an unmanned craft, MSI can access waterways with fewer permits related to human safety regulations, saving time and effort.

The smaller RIB can be launched from a simple ramp or shoreline, unlike traditional vessels that need a proper boat ramp, often situated far from the survey area. This reduces transit time and streamlines logistics.

Time Savings

Remote operation eliminates the need for operational downtime due to breaks, meals, and other interruptions.

The unmanned vessel can remain on station continuously, maximizing survey time and efficiency. Deployment times are also reduced, with the smaller vessel being easier to transport and launch.

CONCLUSION

The integration of the SM300 Autonomous Command and Control system into MSI’s survey fleet has significantly enhanced their operations by decreasing costs and increasing safety.

Retrofitting the system onto an existing vessel tailored to specific job requirements allows MSI to enhance operational efficiency without compromising quality.

Looking ahead, MSI anticipates that the transition from manned to unmanned vessels will be a beneficial and inevitable evolution, as they plan to expand their autonomous fleet.

For more information on the SM300 Autonomous Command and Control system, view our product page here or contact our sales team at sales@sea-machines.com

Watch the video version here, or view the Case Study PDF here.

The post Enhancing Hydrographic Survey with Autonomous Vessels appeared first on Sea Machines Robotics.

Autonomous vessels represent the latest innovation in hydrographic surveying. Equipped with autonomous command and control systems, these vessels operate without direct human intervention, allowing super-human precision, increased accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. 

What Are Autonomous Vessels?

An autonomous vessel, also known as an unmanned surface vehicle (USV), is a marine craft that operates independently without the need for direct human control. 

Autonomous vessels can theoretically be any size, thanks to retrofit systems that can make any boat autonomous. Currently, these vessels range from as small as one meter to as large as 103 meters in length with varying sensor and payload capacities and can either be designed to be optionally manned or entirely unmanned.   

For a more detailed look into maritime autonomy read here.

The Role of Autonomous Vessels in Hydrographic Surveying 

Autonomous boats are increasingly being used to take over tasks that are dull, dirty, or dangerous for humans.  

In hydrographic surveying, this translates to handling repetitive or broad area survey grids, navigating toxic bodies of water, operating in areas with strong currents, and more. 

Autonomy in surveying not only enhances safety but also improves efficiency and cost-effectiveness. For instance, projects can be completed faster, and there’s less need for costly interruptions, like (in some cases) shutting down hydroelectric plants to conduct a survey.  

This technology is transforming the way hydrographic surveys are performed, making them safer, quicker, and more economical. 

 
Autonomous vessels can operate in hazardous environments, such as dams or hydroelectric plants, where human presence may be unsafe. [Vessel courtesy of Measurement Sciences Inc.]

Applications 

Coastal Mapping and Shoreline Management 

Autonomous vessels can efficiently survey large coastal areas, collecting data essential for erosion control, habitat preservation, and flood risk assessment. 

Additionally, some remote areas of coastline require larger vessels to get to the jobsite, these larger vessels benefit from launching a low draft, USV at their disposal to do shallow water work.

Oceanographic Research and Seabed Mapping 

In oceanographic research, autonomous vessels are used for detailed seabed mapping and the study of marine environments.  

With the ability to remain at station for up to weeks rather than hours, autonomous vessels can gather data in remote locations longer than their manned counterparts. 

Navigation and Dredging Operations 

Autonomous vessels are employed in navigation to update charts and ensure safe passage for ships. In dredging operations, they provide accurate surveys of the seabed  and  are a great tool to reduce the routine and repetitive part of the tasks, helping to plan and monitor dredging activities that maintain navigable waterways, critical infrastructure and economic flow. 

Both operations often occur in high-traffic areas, shallow waters, or regions with strong currents, where deploying a manned vessel would be challenging. 

Offshore Construction 

USVs streamline offshore construction projects by conducting unmanned bathymetric mapping for site selection, identifying optimal locations for structures like platforms and pipelines. They also gather crucial data on seabed composition, all without the complexities and risks of coordinating manned vessel operations. 

During construction, the long endurance of unmanned vessels can also be utilized to continuously monitor the site to ensure that construction activities have not altered the seabed and thereby maintaining the integrity of the structure being built. 

NORTHSEA – Windmill park at sea of ​​VATTENFALL Hollandse Kust Zuid wind farm. It supplies power to more than 1.5 million households. The offshore wind farm consists of 139 wind turbines and is located approximately eighteen kilometers from the coast. THE windmills are located in the sea off the coast of the Netherlands.

Large vessels with high fuel consumption and larger crews are typically required to endure the harsh conditions of offshore wind farms. However, autonomous vessels can perform the same tasks with a smaller carbon footprint and reduced manpower.

Wind Farms 

For optimum layout of offshore wind turbines, unmanned vessels are deployed to produce highly accurate maps of the seabed that assist in planning the placement of the turbines on stable ground with minimal environmental impact and no interference from subsurface features such as buried cables or geological faults. 

After construction, unmanned vessels offer a safer and more cost-effective solution for monitoring seabed erosion around wind turbine foundations, enabling early detection of potential issues and facilitating timely corrective measures. 

Communication & Power Cables 

Charting optimal cable route is an essential part of laying communication or power cables. Autonomous vessels are used to conduct hydrographic surveys to chart the optimal cable route, avoiding underwater hazards, minimizing route length, and ensuring cables are laid on stable seabed conditions. 

Over time, seabed conditions can change, potentially exposing or shifting cables. Autonomous vessels can perform regular hydrographic surveys to monitor these changes and ensure the continued protection and integrity of the cables using sub-bottom profilers or side-scan sonars to ensure proper burial depth. 

Types of Vessels 

Depending on the specific survey requirements, different types of autonomous vessels are needed to optimize data collection and operational efficiency.

There’s no standard classification for autonomous vessel sizes, and definitions can vary between organizations, but broadly speaking, autonomous vessels can be categorized by size as follows: 

Small autonomous survey vessels (3-10 m.)

Smaller survey vessels are ideal for shallow water and coastal surveys, these small USVs are agile and can navigate tight spaces that larger vessels cannot. 

These smaller vessels are often, but not always, powered by renewable energy sources like wind and solar, but their size may limit their payload capacity. 

SELKIE 7, the 7 meter autonomous vessel with an integrated cargo bay, Seakeeper gyroscope, and mounts for additional equipment.

Medium autonomous survey vessels (11-50 m.)

Medium-sized survey vessels such as SELKIE 7 are the workhorse of the maritime survey industry, being able to both traverse smaller waterways and withstand harsher open sea conditions.  

These vessels are often utilised in surveying coastal areas and wind farms, and are only restricted by their draft, sea state capability, and range. 

Their larger size enables them to carry more robust sensors and additional payloads, making them well-suited for longer and more complex operations. However, this increased capacity comes at the cost of higher power requirements and greater deployment challenges compared to smaller USVs. 

Sea Machines’ SELKIE class vessel is capable of carrying up to 500 kg (about 1102 lb). payloads in her cargo bay and is built with hydrographic survey in mind with ample room and power for additional sensors. Powered by our SM300 autonomy system, SELKIE provides a turnkey autonomy solution for a wide array of survey operations. 

Large autonomous survey vessels (50 m.+)

Larger survey vessels offer specific advantages and disadvantages due to their size. 

Their spacious design enables them to serve as motherships for smaller autonomous vessels, extend operational range, and endure the harshest maritime conditions.  

While these vessels provide unparalleled capabilities for deep-sea exploration, their large scale also makes them the most expensive to operate and deploy. 

Autonomous Functions Beneficial to Survey 

Our SM300 Autonomous Command and Control system provides many features that are beneficial to survey operations. 

A second vessel follows the beacon of the SM300 equipped vessel for simultaneous control. 

Collaborative Following

Utilise one or more vessel locked on to the mothership as force multipliers to cover more area with the same amount of effort.  

This approach is particularly effective for extensive surveys or operations, as it enables multiple vessels to work in unison under a unified command, ensuring comprehensive coverage while optimizing resource use. 

Plotting survey grids on the SM300 UI 

Grid Pattern 

Control width, length, rotation, and leg spacing and click to place your survey grid on the SM300 UI, then deploy and collect survey data autonomously. Alternatively, import your survey line plans from either Hypack or QPS QINSy. 

The SM300 ensures precise navigation for high-quality survey data every time. 

The SM300 autonomously avoids a head-on obstacle. 

Collision Avoidance 

The SM300 enables the vessel to autonomously avoid, correct course, and continue the mission as planned with custom safeguard distances to suit your needs. 

Starlink can assist in accelerating survey data processing times. 

Starlink & VSAT for Instant Transmission 

By providing robust, low-latency connectivity even in remote or offshore locations, Starlink facilitates real-time data transmission from survey vessels to onshore teams. This enhanced connectivity enables quicker data analysis and reduces delays in data transfer, allowing for processing to begin while the vessel is still on its mission. 

Remote Data Processing 

Remote Data Processing is enabled with high-bandwidth satellite communications.  

Survey companies can process acquired data in parallel with field operations, allowing for much faster turnaround time on deliverables. Remotely based  survey data processing staff can be distributed globally, thus taking advantage of time zone differences and potentially reducing costs. 

Advantages of Using Autonomous Vessels in Hydrographic Surveying

Improved accuracy and precision  

Autonomous vessels can follow pre-programmed routes with minimal deviation ensures consistent data collection, reducing human error and improving the reliability of survey results.  

Additionally, the autonomous nature of these vessels enables continuous and repeatable surveys, making them a valuable asset for areas requiring frequent monitoring and repeated surveys over time. This capability allows for accurate tracking of changes in underwater environments. 

Cost-efficiency 

Autonomous vessels significantly reduce the need for onboard personnel, minimizing labor expenses associated with traditional manned survey operations. 

With computer-planned navigation, autonomy also contributes to reducing fuel costs by optimizing routes and ensuring efficient operation, further enhancing the cost-effectiveness of survey missions. 

Autonomy is also a boon for survey missions that require broad area coverage, as autonomous vessels are not bound by the time requirements of humans and can provide features that aid in expediting data collection such as collaborative following (see above). 

Enhanced Safety  

Autonomous vessels reduce the need for human presence in dangerous or inaccessible areas, such as harsh weather conditions, hazardous waters, or regions with high-risk factors, thereby significantly lowering the risk of accidents and injuries.  

The ability to control and monitor autonomous vessels remotely allows operators to conduct surveys from a safe distance, further enhancing safety by keeping personnel out of harm’s way while still achieving precise and effective survey results.

Increased Efficiency 

Unlike human crews, autonomous vessels can operate continuously without the need for breaks, rest, or shift changes. This uninterrupted operation maximizes efficiency, especially during long or complex survey missions, leading to more productive and cost-effective outcomes.  

Combined with instant data transmission via Starlink, autonomy can greatly expedite survey operations. 

Autonomously run grids exhibit minimal cross-track error. 

A Note on the Benefits of Reduced and Optionally Crewed Vessels

One of the key advantages of autonomy is its flexibility. You don’t always have to operate fully autonomously to reap the benefits.  

Reduced and optionally crewed vessels offer the advantages of autonomy while allowing operators to navigate areas with legal restrictions against full autonomy. They enable decentralized operations and deliver significant ROI by extending operational hours—unhindered by human fatigue—and reducing the costs associated with having a full crew on board. 

Conclusion

Autonomous vessels are transforming hydrographic surveying by enhancing accuracy, reducing costs, and improving safety.  

Operating without personnel onboard can streamline data collection and processing while simultaneously minimizing human presence in hazardous areas. 

Sea Machines proudly offers two advanced solutions: the SM300 Autonomous Command and Control system, available as a retrofit option, and the SELKIE class, our 7- and 9-meter autonomous platform powered by the SM300 system. 

Reach out to us at sales@sea-machines.com to explore the right autonomous solution for you. 

The post Guide to Autonomous Vessels for Hydrographic Survey in 2024 appeared first on Sea Machines Robotics.

On June 12, Sea Machines European Director Peter Holm, alongside Mr. Maciek Pikuliński, representative of the German-Polish Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK Polen), formally announced the establishment of our new presence in this city renowned for its rich maritime history.

Peter Holm expressed his gratitude, stating, “I would like to thank AHK for their help in a smooth, quick, and efficient setup of our latest European office, which gives us a further foothold in this important maritime region.”

This expansion marks a significant step in our commitment to enhancing our operations and presence within the European maritime industry. We look forward to introducing our newest team members and continuing to drive innovation and excellence in marine autonomy.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to grow and evolve.

The post Sea Machines Expands with New Office in Gdańsk, Poland appeared first on Sea Machines Robotics.

sUSVs and aerial vehicles each offer unique advantages, but together, they unlock a range of possibilities greater than the sum of their parts.

In this blog, Hoverfly joins Sea Machines Robotics, Inc. to explore the applications and benefits of combining these unmanned platforms.

Key Requirements for Integrating sUSVs with Tethered Drones

To effectively utilize a sUSV with a tethered drone (also called Tethered Unmanned Aircraft System or TeUAS), consider the following requirements:

• Cargo/transportation storage space for the UAS: Ample space for connection

and operation of Tethered UAS:

• •  Tether Kit: 17.5″ x 17.5″ x 15″ (LxWxH)
  • Craft: 30-50″ x 30-50″ x 10-14″ H
•  Power Connection: Power converter from vessel or generator power.
• Connectivity: Ensure robust communication links for remote command of both the vessel and the TeUAS platform. This may be in direct Line of Sight (LOS) or Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) over wireless IP radio, 4G cellular or SATCOMgfg.

Depending on your specific use case, the requirements for your autonomous system may vary, so it is best to consult your provider.

If you are looking to outfit an existing vessel with autonomy, we recommend our guide here: Buyer’s Guide to Maritime Autonomy. 

Why Choose Tethered Drones?

Increased Endurance

Unlike free-flying drones, tethered drones are not limited by power constraints and can therefore remain airborne for hours, providing continuous surveillance and

reconnaissance without the need for frequent battery changes.

Extended Communication

At heights of up to 200 feet, tethered UAS exponentially increases communication range beyond line-of-sight. The secure tether ensures encrypted, reliable data transmission between the drone and ground station, safeguarding critical information from interception or tampering.

Rapid Deployment

Tethered UAS can be launched and operational within minutes – stationary or on-the-move – providing immediate situational awareness and actionable intelligence to support mission success.

Adaptable Payloads

Tethered drones are a versatile platform that can accommodate a wide range of payloads, allowing customization to fit your requirements ranging from high-resolution reconnaissance, thermal imaging, electronic warfare capabilities, and more.

Applications of Combined Technology

Combining the extended range of visibility from drones with the flexibility of unmanned vessels enables a wide array of use cases.

ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) and Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA)

Utilizing sUSVs and TeUAS for wide-area surveillance enhances the line of sight from both the water’s surface and aerial perspectives.

These systems provide persistent surveillance capabilities, which are crucial for a variety of MDA applications to include detection of illicit drug and migrant trafficking, monitor/report on illegal fishing, as well as monitoring and reporting on suspicious vessel activity.. The combination of these technologies allows for comprehensive monitoring and increased situational awareness in maritime security operations.

Infrastructure Inspection

The integration of sUSVs and TeUAS is highly effective for inspecting offshore installations, bridges, and harbors.

These systems can perform detailed examinations of structural integrity and safety, ensuring that infrastructure remains secure and operational. By leveraging the capabilities of both platforms, inspections can be conducted more efficiently,with greater accuracy, and reduces risk to human operators.

For a more detailed read of the role of USVs in offshore operations, read our blog here: (LINK TO OFFSHORE BLOG).

Environmental Monitoring

Unmanned systems are invaluable for environmental monitoring, enabling data collection from both air and water.

These technologies can monitor water bodies, identify pollution sources, track changes in water conditions and measure pollutant levels.

Additionally, they are useful for marine wildlife monitoring, protecting against poaching, covering larger areas, and providing precise GPS tracking of marine animal movements. This technology can also be utilized as tool protect marine mammals from wind farm construction by providing detection and notification of marine mammals, such as right whales to commercial and recreational vessels.

Search and Rescue Operations

In search and rescue operations, the combination of sUSVs and TeUAS allows for efficient search patterns and improved coordination.

These systems enable immediate response capabilities, enhancing the effectiveness of rescue missions and reducing response times.

Utilization of autonomy and TeUAS allows operators-on-the-loop to determine ideal search plans into the vessels’ operating and execute it with 100% accuracy, removing the human error factor from search and rescue operations. When used in tandem with humans aboard the vessel, it would allow the entire crew to be focused on looking for the search object, rather than on navigating the craft.

The ability to deploy both aerial and water-based assets ensures comprehensive coverage and increased chances of success in locating and assisting individuals in distress.

Operational Benefits

Cost Efficiency

Reduced operational expenses and savings on manpower and fuel costs make unmanned systems a cost-effective solution for maritime operations.

Enhanced Safety

Utilizing sUSV with TeUAS instead of manned vessels decreases the likelihood of human error that could stem long duration underway periods or operating in dangerous/hazardous areas. This not only decreases the risk to operator and vessel but increases the operational effectiveness of the mission. Minimizing human presence in hazardous areas and reducing risks and accidents enhances the safety of maritime operations.

Operational Efficiency

Unmanned systems offer 24/7 operation capability, leading to quicker response times and shorter delivery of information as well as an increase in overall efficiency.

sUSVs can operate continuously for longer durations compared to traditional human shifts. Similarly, the tethered drone can remain airborne for extended periods without concerns about battery life, thanks to the continuous power supply from the vessel.

Unlocking the Potential: Embracing Combined Unmanned Technologies

The combination of unmanned vessels and drones offers numerous benefits across various applications.

For instance, Sea Machines’ SELKIE sUSV and Hoverfly tethered drones provide a versatile and powerful solution for modern maritime operations.

With SELKIE’s integrated cargo space and remote command hatch, and Hoverfly’s advanced UAS technology, we offer a powerful combination that enhances operational efficiency, safety, and data collection capabilities for your maritime missions

Reach out to us at sales@sea-machines.com or at info@hoverflytech.com for more information.

The post Combining Small Unmanned Surface Vehicles (sUSV) and Tethered Drones appeared first on Sea Machines Robotics.

Unmanned vessels have emerged as integral tools in offshore energy operations, offering innovative solutions to challenges such as inspection, maintenance, and logistical support.  

In this article, we explore the potential uses and benefits of deploying unmanned vessels in offshore energy operations. 

The Role of Unmanned Vessels in Offshore Energy Operations 

Autonomous or remotely operated surface vessels, such as Sea Machines’ SELKIE, provide a cost-effective and efficient means of conducting tasks in offshore environments, enhancing operational capabilities and minimizing risks associated with human presence at sea. 

Applications of Unmanned Vessels in Offshore Energy  

Inspection and Maintenance 

Unmanned surface vessels (USVs) play a crucial role in conducting routine inspections of offshore structures, such as oil rigs, wind turbines, and underwater cables or pipelines.  

Equipped with advanced sensors and cameras, these vessels can navigate complex environments and access hard-to-reach areas, ensuring comprehensive coverage of infrastructure.  

USVs also facilitate collaboration with other unmanned technologies, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), for enhanced monitoring capabilities. UAVs can be deployed from autonomous vessels to inspect structures like wind turbine blades and assess structural integrity, eliminating the need for human intervention in hazardous offshore environments. Unmanned underwater vehicles, (UUVs) and tethered Remotely Operated Vehicles, (ROVs) are also being deployed for subsurface infrastructure inspection. 

Logistics and Supply Chain Management 

Unmanned vessels serve as essential logistical support for transporting personnel, equipment, and supplies between shore and offshore installations.  

With their ability to operate autonomously or under remote control, these vessels offer a reliable and efficient means of ferrying resources to and from offshore sites, reducing dependency on large, crewed vessels and minimizing operational downtime. 

Additionally, by optimizing supply chain operations and transportation processes, unmanned vessels lead to significant cost savings for offshore energy projects. Their versatility and adaptability ensure efficient logistics and supply chain management, making them indispensable assets. 

Data Collection and Mapping 

Unmanned vessels equipped with sensors and sonar systems collect data for mapping seabed topography, underwater terrain, and geological features. This data aids in site selection, resource exploration, and seabed characterization for offshore energy projects.  

The high-resolution data collected allows for accurate mapping of underwater structures and facilitates informed decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.  

Requirements for Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) for Offshore Operations

An ideal USV for offshore operations must endure rough seas, possess long-range capabilities, and feature reliable autonomy.  

For inspection and data collection tasks, the vessel should have ample space for or be designed with sensors and other equipment in mind. 

In logistics support, the USV should prioritise cargo space and extended range capabilities for efficient transportation of supplies to offshore installations.  

Overall, the USV must be robust, adaptable, and equipped for safe operation in challenging offshore environments. 

The Bottom Line: Increasing Safety and Decreasing Costs 

Unmanned surface vessels (USVs) offer significant advantages in safety, productivity and cost efficiency for offshore operations.  

By minimizing human presence in hazardous environments, USVs mitigate safety risks associated with offshore activities, reducing the potential for accidents and injuries.  

Additionally, USVs lower operational costs compared to crewed vessels, thanks to reduced manpower requirements and decreased fuel consumption due to more efficient route planning and the ability to use smaller size vessels for the same operation. 

Over the long term, these efficiency gains translate into substantial cost savings, making USVs a compelling choice for enhancing safety and optimizing expenditures in offshore operations. 

SELKIE: Built for the Real World 

Our latest autonomous vessel, SELKIE, is powered by our industry leading SM300 Autonomous Command and Control system which has been deployed on over 100 different commercial and military craft 

Outfitted with oversized hardware and an integrated Seakeeper gyro stabilizer, SELKIE is built to withstand and excel in offshore energy operations. The Seakeeper allows for roll reductions of up to 70-90%, extending its ability to operate in inclement weather and allows SELKIE to complete the task with a smaller vessel size than normally required, economizing fuel and other resources.  

Whether it’s SELKIE’s integrated storage with up to 2 Euro-pallet capacity or our built-in mounts and winches for sensors and equipment, we are confident that we have crafted the ultimate unmanned vessel for inspection, logistics, and data collection alike. Sea Machines is pleased to offer this world class solution, fully integrated and delivered to your operation with procurement and lease options available globally.  

Reach out to us today to learn how SELKIE can serve you at sales@sea-machines.com 

The post Unmanned Vessels for Offshore Energy Operations appeared first on Sea Machines Robotics.

As the first turnkey autonomous vessel released by Sea Machines, SELKIE is poised to revolutionize industries ranging from hydrographic surveying, offshore asset inspection, and persistent on water operations such as security and environmental studies. SELKIE is the ideal full solution USV for any task-driven workboat fleet operator.

Key Features of SELKIE Include:

· Robust Autonomous Functions: SELKIE boasts cutting-edge autonomous capabilities, granting users access to advanced functions.

· Easy to Use: Quick to learn and ready to command via the highly intuitive single-screen graphical user interface.

· Survey Ready: With an under-keel sonar mount, CTD winch, and ample power and space to mount customer hardware.

· Integrated Payload / Cargo Bay: Equipped with generous built-in cargo storage, equivalent to 2 x 1.3 meters (2 Euro Pallets), SELKIE is perfect for long range logistics. Also complete with remotely controllable deck hatches for deploying payloads at sea like inspection or surveillance UAVs at sea.

· High Operational Endurance: With its efficient design and diesel propulsion, SELKIE offers an extended operational range for a vessel of her size.

“She’s finally here with 9 years of autonomous development and on water use behind SELKIE; our overarching goal is to give customers, the world’s fleet operators, products that enable them to capture new and substantial value from their work” exclaimed Michael G. Johnson, Founder and CEO of Sea Machines Robotics. “With SELKIE, commercial operators, researchers, and security agencies can go further, do more, do it better, with less costly or restrictive effort.

About Sea Machines Robotics:

Based in the bustling tech hub of Boston and with a global presence, Sea Machines Robotics, Inc. is a trailblazer in autonomous command and control and advanced perception systems for the marine industry. Founded in 2017, the company develops autonomous vessel software and systems that enhance the safety, efficiency, and performance of ships, workboats, and commercial passenger vessels. Learn more about Sea Machines at www.sea-machines.com.

CONTACT:

Phil Bourque, VP of Global Sales Email: pbourque@sea-machines.com

The post Sea Machines Robotics Unveils SELKIE: The Future of Autonomous Vessels appeared first on Sea Machines Robotics.