ASV Global secures six USV deal

UK-based ASV Global is to design and build six brand new unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) for SeaTrepid DeepSea.

The new craft are derivatives of ASV’s C-Worker range. The 7.6-metre long “SeaWorkers” are being built at ASV Global’s production facility in Portchester, UK before undergoing sea trials and being shipped to SeaTrepid’s base in Louisiana, USA.

The six new vehicles will be used in a multiple autonomous vehicle program developed by SeaTrepid DeepSea combining USVs and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) to conduct wide area, high-resolution surveys.

Each vessel will be fitted with an acoustic underwater positioning system to track the AUVs through shallow and ultra-deep waters. Using USVs to track the AUVs will increase operational efficiencies compared to using a traditional ship, ASV said.

“The SeaWorkers have been designed specifically as a ruggedised workboat, capable of carrying large payloads and handling varying weather conditions and water depths,” said Dan Hook, managing director of ASV Global.

“The USV’s are a vital piece of the multiple autonomous vehicle program allowing for tracking and communication between the AUVs and Host Surface Vessel (HSV),” said Jake Klara, commercial manager of SeaTrepid DeepSea. “Having a quality USV developed by the leading manufacturer was essential for us to produce successful results to our clients.”