Dubai, United Arab Emirates – In a remarkable technological leap, Fugro, a leading player in maritime exploration and Geo-data insights, has accomplished the Middle East’s inaugural remotely operated subsea inspection through its cutting-edge uncrewed surface vessel (USV) technology. The achievement marks a significant advancement in offshore operations, demonstrating the potential of innovative solutions to redefine safety, efficiency, and sustainability within the maritime industry.
The remarkable feat was carried out at an offshore gas platform situated in the waters of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Notably, this entire operation unfolded without the need to deploy personnel offshore, signifying a pivotal departure from conventional methodologies.
At the heart of this groundbreaking endeavor was Fugro’s Blue Essence® technology, an exceptional advancement that showcases the potency of remote operations. Earlier in the year, Fugro unveiled the Middle East’s premier government-licensed USV, and its maiden voyage has now been crowned with resounding success. The Fugro Pegasus USV, a distinguished member of the Blue Essence® fleet, was entrusted with a critical mission – to execute a meticulous subsea survey and inspection of the UAQ3 platform, situated within the Umm Al Quwain gas field, on behalf of Chinese operator Atlantis.
What sets this operation apart is the utilization of Fugro’s onshore remote operations centre (ROC) located in Dubai. This ROC, staffed with a dedicated team of skilled mariners and surveyors, masterfully orchestrated the entire mission. The Fugro Pegasus USV, equipped with the innovative Blue Volta® electric remotely operated vehicle (eROV), undertook the intricate task of inspecting the platform’s structural integrity and creating an intricate seabed map. Crucially, the data garnered was seamlessly streamed to the ROC, affording Atlantis the unique capability to monitor developments in real-time. This real-time data access facilitated swift identification and exploration of areas warranting further investigation, fostering the creation of a comprehensive risk assessment that will shape Atlantis’ forthcoming decommissioning venture.
The Blue Essence® USV fleet forms an integral component of Fugro’s strategic initiative for remote and autonomous operations. This visionary program seeks to proffer unparalleled Geo-data insights to clients, significantly enhancing efficiency, safety, and ecological sustainability. A remarkable achievement of these USVs is their exceptional carbon emissions reduction – up to an astounding 95% when juxtaposed with conventional vessels. Moreover, their design ensures extended operational endurance, with the capability to remain at sea for two weeks without refuelling. Notably, the absence of on-site personnel markedly mitigates health and safety risks, whilst concurrently fostering the establishment of a localized and diverse onshore workforce.
Patrick Boyce, Drilling Manager at Atlantis (UAQ) ltd, lauded the flawless integration of Fugro’s remote survey technology with their projects’ overarching goals. He underscored the Fugro Pegasus’ punctuality and efficiency, a notable achievement even amid challenging sea conditions. Crucially, the operation’s success was a testament to the impeccable execution by the skilled Fugro team, whose commitment and expertise were evident throughout the endeavor.
