A wind-propelled USV (Unmanned Surface Vessel) uses a sail for propulsion and solar power for onboard electronics. The Sailbuoy is controlled via Iridium satellite links for command and telemetry, can operate autonomously for many months, and typically averages 1–2 knots, with peak speeds of around 3 knots.
Because propulsion comes from the wind rather than electric motors, the Sailbuoy is not limited by battery capacity for navigation. This makes it a true long-duration USV capable of missions extending well beyond 12 months. In practice, most operators choose to recover the vehicle after 4–6 months to clean marine growth from sensors and retrieve any high-resolution data stored onboard.
The Sailbuoy enables persistent ocean data collection with dramatically fewer vessel-days, lower operational costs, and reduced HSE exposure.
A wind-propelled USV is an autonomous surface platform that harvests wind for motion and solar for sensor/electronics power. With Iridium for two-way communications, it follows planned routes, respects geofences, returns status and data in near-real time, and maintains missions without onboard crew for months.
Persistent coverage improves data continuity and reduces weather-window pressure. With typical long-term speeds of 1–2 knots and peak speeds around 3 knots, a wind-propelled USV can replace short crewed missions, extending well beyond 12 months. Iridium control, AIS visibility where applicable, and geofencing support safe, efficient operations and lower total vessel-days.
How long can it stay at sea?
It is a true long-duration USV capable of missions extending well beyond 12 months. In practice, most operators plan 4–6 month missions before recovery, depending on marine growth, routing, and conditions.
How is it monitored and controlled?
Two-way Iridium satcom provides commands, telemetry, geofences, and alerts throughout the mission.