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Subsea technology and services specialist SMD has completed site acceptance testing of its electric work-class remotely operated vehicle (ROV), marking a key milestone in the advancement of fully electric subsea systems.
The testing program confirms the readiness of the SMD Quantum EV, an electric work-class ROV purchased by Jan De Nul, for offshore integration and future commercial operations.
Successful Testing at DEEP Campus
Site acceptance testing was carried out at the DEEP Campus, where the Quantum EV underwent extensive endurance and performance testing. The trials were designed to validate the vehicle’s ability to operate over long durations in demanding subsea conditions.
Following successful completion, the ROV is scheduled for integration onboard Jan De Nul’s cable-laying vessel Fleeming Jenkin, ahead of planned commercial deployment in 2026.
Advancing Fully Electric Subsea Operations
According to SMD, the Quantum EV has been engineered to reduce operational downtime while supporting high-precision subsea tasks. Its fully electric architecture aligns with growing industry demand for more efficient and lower-emission subsea solutions, particularly within offshore renewables.
John McCann, Business Development Manager at SMD, highlighted the wider industry context:
“Requirements for efficient, reliable, and sustainable subsea vehicles are more pressing than ever. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the offshore renewables sector, where ambitious global targets demand unwavering operational excellence across the supply chain.”
He added that the electrification of high-powered subsea systems is a key enabler for improved underwater operational efficiency.
Preparing for Offshore Deployment in 2026
Jan De Nul confirmed confidence in the system following testing. Jan Van de Velde, Director of Newbuilding at Jan De Nul, stated:
“Following extensive testing, we are confident that this system will work reliably in the field, enabling us to support clients around the globe with their renewable energy projects.”
He noted that the company looks forward to installing the Quantum EV onboard the Fleeming Jenkin next year, further strengthening its subsea and offshore renewables capabilities.
What This Means for Subsea and Offshore Talent
From an industry and recruitment perspective, the move toward fully electric work-class ROVs is accelerating demand for specialists across:
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Subsea vehicle engineering and commissioning
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ROV operations and maintenance
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Offshore cable installation and inspection
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Electrical and control systems integration
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Renewable energy subsea project delivery
As offshore renewables continue to scale globally, electric subsea systems like the Quantum EV are expected to play an increasingly central role in reducing emissions while maintaining operational reliability.
Blog Summary
SMD has completed site acceptance testing of its electric work-class ROV, the Quantum EV, clearing the system for integration with Jan De Nul’s cable-laying vessel Fleeming Jenkin. Tested at the DEEP Campus near Bristol, the vehicle is designed for long-duration, high-precision subsea operations and is scheduled for commercial deployment in 2026, supporting offshore renewables and sustainable subsea projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the SMD Quantum EV?
It is a fully electric work-class remotely operated vehicle designed for long-duration and precision subsea operations.
2. Where was the ROV tested?
Testing was completed at the DEEP Campus near Bristol in the UK.
3. Who will operate the Quantum EV?
The ROV was purchased by Jan De Nul and will be integrated into its offshore operations.
4. When will the ROV be deployed commercially?
Commercial deployment is planned for 2026.
5. Why is an electric ROV significant?
Electric work-class ROVs reduce emissions, improve efficiency, and support sustainability goals in offshore renewables.
About SA Operations
SA Operations specializes in recruiting highly skilled professionals for offshore and onshore projects in the Oil & Gas, Renewables, and Maritime industries. Offering comprehensive recruitment, head-hunting, and payroll solutions, the company delivers specialized talent for projects ranging from subsea operations to renewable energy development. SA Operations is committed to providing industry-leading solutions and ensuring seamless project execution for clients across the globe.
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