What are Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USV)?

Introduction to Uncrewed Surface Vessels

Uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) are transforming ocean exploration, environmental monitoring, and maritime security. These self-operating vessels function without onboard crew, leveraging advanced sensors, renewable energy, and AI-driven navigation.

Since they are not designed to carry cargo, these vessels typically do not fall under stringent regulatory requirements. However, their performance depends on multiple factors, including mission objectives, sensor payload, power source, size, and propulsion type.

Key Factors in Autonomous Marine Technology

Before deploying an autonomous surface vessel, several considerations must be addressed:

• Primary Function: Surveying, monitoring, or communication support
• Operational Environment: Coastal regions, deep-sea environments, or hazardous zones
• Mission Duration: Short-term or extended autonomous deployments

Today’s advanced uncrewed marine systems often rely on renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and wave power to maximize operational efficiency.

Size vs. Functionality

Advancements in sensor technology have made it possible to integrate smaller, energy-efficient sensors into compact and robust autonomous vessels. This offers key advantages:

• Lower Costs: More budget-friendly than conventional crewed ships
• Greater Coverage: Deploy multiple units for broader data collection
• Flexible Launch Options: Deployable from ships, piers, or remote locations

These vessels can operate independently or in coordination with Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). They also support real-time data transfer, navigation guidance, and even act as mobile recharging stations for other uncrewed systems.

Sensor Capabilities in Uncrewed Vessels

Equipped with sophisticated sensors, these vessels collect crucial oceanic and atmospheric data, including:

• Oceanographic Data: Bathymetry, salinity, dissolved oxygen, currents, and wave height
• Meteorological Data: Wind speed, air temperature, atmospheric pressure, and humidity
• Imagery & Sampling: High-resolution cameras and water sample collection systems

This real-time data is transmitted to ships or shore stations via satellite, enhancing marine research and environmental monitoring.

Why Are Autonomous Surface Vessels Important?

Uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) play an essential role in multiple industries:

• Scientific Research: Seafloor mapping, climate studies, and habitat assessments
• Maritime Security: Surveillance, border patrol, and illegal activity detection
• Offshore Industries: Energy exploration, telecommunications, and infrastructure monitoring
• Disaster Response: Oil spill detection, storm surge modeling, and emergency assistance

In addition to data collection, these vessels are now being tested for cargo transport and passenger ferry applications, showcasing their versatility.

Spotlight on Sailbuoy Technology

A prime example of autonomous marine innovation is the Sailbuoy by Offshore Sensing AS. This wind-powered vessel uses solar panels to power its electronics and actuators, allowing for extended missions without human intervention.

The Sailbuoy’s internal autopilot battery pack ensures navigation for up to six months without recharging, making it ideal for operations in high-latitude regions with limited sunlight. Additionally, its design minimizes entanglement risks with floating debris or mechanical structures, making it highly durable in harsh marine environments.

The Future of Autonomous Marine Technology

Autonomous vessels, including Sailbuoy, are becoming indispensable tools in ocean exploration. Their key advantages include:

• Cost-Efficiency: Reduced operational expenses compared to manned vessels
• Environmental Sustainability: Minimal carbon footprint through renewable energy use
• Enhanced Safety: Eliminating human risk in hazardous marine environments
• Long-Term Deployment: Extended missions without refueling

While these vessels will not replace traditional ships, AUVs, or ROVs, they will continue to complement them, expanding the scale, efficiency, and accessibility of marine data collection.

Explore the Sailbuoy USV missions

The Sailbuoy Met, said to be the first unmanned surface vehicle to successfully complete the crossing, travelled a whopping 5,100 km autonomously. Read about YBM’s mission here.

See a selection of Sailbouy missions here.