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USV Challenger Joins Subsea Fleet: A Game-Changer for Offshore IMR Operations
Discover how DeepOcean’s new USV Challenger is redefining offshore subsea operations. Designed for IMR and survey tasks, the uncrewed vessel offers cost savings, environmental benefits, and operational efficiency across the energy sector.
DeepOcean Welcomes USV Challenger: A Step Forward in Offshore Subsea Innovation
At SA Operations Services, we constantly observe the transformative shifts shaping offshore operations. One such milestone is the recent delivery of USV Challenger—an uncrewed surface vessel (USV) built by Astilleros Gondán in Spain and now part of a pioneering joint venture between DeepOcean, Solstad Offshore, and Østensjø Rederi.
According to DeepOcean CEO Øyvind Mikaelsen, the USV Challenger was purpose-built for subsea inspection, maintenance, and repair (IMR) tasks, making it a highly cost-effective alternative to traditional human-crewed vessels. With hybrid diesel-electric propulsion and a battery package, this 24-meter-long vessel can operate offshore for up to 30 days without refueling.
Upon its arrival at DeepOcean’s Killingøy base near Haugesund, the USV Challenger will undergo testing of its launch and recovery system (LARS) and secure maritime authority approvals for remote operations. DeepOcean emphasizes that the USV crew and ROV operators will work from the same remote operations center (ROC), enhancing operational coherence and efficiency.
This development marks a significant advancement in remote subsea capabilities. Built for resilience in harsh offshore environments, the vessel is equipped with a fully electric work-class ROV rated to 1,500 meters, armed with survey sensors and a substantial tool package. Its applications range from pipeline inspection to seabed mapping, hatch operations, light lifting, and even torque-based repair work, making it a versatile asset across both the oil and gas and renewable energy sectors.
The ROV onboard has been enhanced with DeepOcean’s autonomous inspection drone (AID) software, which is integrated with a proprietary digital twin platform. This allows remote pilots to operate the ROV even in low-visibility seabed zones through a digital simulation of the subsea environment. Using a fly-out system, the ROV can also support cable-laying operations and visual inspections in congested or high-risk areas.
According to Mikaelsen, integrating USVs like Challenger during IMR operations could reduce CO2 emissions by over 90% compared to conventional vessels. This would be a financial win for operators and a notable move toward greener offshore practices.
Industry interest is rising fast. DeepOcean has partnered with Aker BP to pioneer the use of USVs in IMR and survey work, aiming to shift 30% of such operations from traditional vessels to uncrewed solutions. Additional operators, including Vår Energi, are joining demonstration projects planned for 2025, underlining the sector-wide momentum this technology is gathering.
The USV is certified for four onboard crew for nearshore testing but is optimized for full remote operations offshore. Designed around DeepOcean’s LARS system, inspired by trawling rather than conventional moonpool or A-frame designs, the vessel promises safer and more stable ROV deployment in significant wave heights—a feature well-suited for the unpredictable nature of offshore work.
At SA Operations Services, we recognize that innovations like the USV Challenger reflect technological progress and demand skilled personnel across subsea operations, ROV control, and remote systems management. For clients and professionals alike, the rise of USVs signals a shift toward leaner, more agile offshore project execution.
As the energy sector pushes for sustainable solutions and improved operational efficiency, the successful integration of vessels like Challenger could become the new norm in subsea logistics and crew support.
For more tailored recruitment support in subsea and survey operations, contact SA Operations Services, where we connect expertise with innovation.
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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