Van Oord’s Unmanned Survey Vessel VO:X Barentsz Completes Initial Offshore Deployment
Dutch marine contractor Van Oord has announced that its unmanned survey vessel (USV) VO:X Barentsz has successfully completed its inaugural multi-day offshore deployment, supporting construction activities at the Hollandse Kust West offshore wind farm, operated by Ecowende in the Dutch North Sea.
Introduced in April 2024, the VO:X Barentsz is Van Oord’s fifth USV and the first specifically designed for maritime operations.
During the deployment, the VO:X Barentsz played a crucial role in monitoring the installation of monopiles and subsea cables, which were carried out by installation vessels Boreas, Nexus, and Subsea Viking.
This deployment marks a significant advancement in the integration of remote and unmanned survey technologies in offshore settings, where operators aim to enhance operational efficiency and safety while minimizing environmental impact.
According to Van Oord, unmanned survey vessels enable continuous monitoring of offshore infrastructure, including subsea cables, while adhering to established survey standards. These capabilities are essential for maintaining the integrity and long-term reliability of offshore energy assets.
John van der Marel, USV lead at Van Oord, stated that the operation showcased the ability of unmanned survey vessels to be remotely operated over extended periods while providing high-quality data.
“The deployment of VO:X Barentsz demonstrates that unmanned survey vessels can effectively operate remotely for several days, delivering high-quality data and driving innovation in offshore surveying,” he noted.
Source (including image credits): Van Oord