Kongsberg Maritime and offshore companies sign MoU to launch remote DP operations pilot
Kongsberg Maritime, Solstad, Østensjø, DeepOcean, and Remota have signed a memorandum of understanding to launch a pilot project aimed at exploring the feasibility of remote Dynamic Positioning (DP) operations within the offshore industry.
This initiative was announced at Nor-Shipping in Oslo that is being held from 2 to 6 June.
Scheduled to begin later this year on the offshore vessel Normand Sentinel, the pilot programme will investigate how remote technology can improve operational flexibility and broaden recruitment prospects in the maritime industry.
By allowing DP operations to be carried out from shore, the project seeks to broaden and diversify its recruitment pool.
The shore-based Dynamic Positioning (DP) operator will operate from a Remote Operations Centre (ROC) managed by Remota, leveraging advanced connectivity and cybersecurity systems.
This initiative marks a significant advancement towards more intelligent and sustainable maritime operations, stated Kongsberg Maritime.
The initial phase of the pilot project will feature two vessels: Solstad’s Normand Sentinel and Østensjø’s Edda Freya.
Each vessel will be equipped with a complete onboard dynamic positioning (DP) team to “ensure safety” and gather comparative data.
Additionally, the project aims to investigate the feasibility of remote DP2 operations and evaluate a more adaptable model for future operations.
Kongsberg Maritime president Lisa Edvardsen Haugan said: “Together with our experienced, forward-thinking, and innovative partners Solstad, Østensjø, DeepOcean, and Remota, we aim to challenge established norms in the maritime industry through innovative remote technology, collectively addressing future challenges with proven technological solutions.”
Remota CEO Sveinung Soma said: “When developing and proving remote DP operations with renowned partners as Østensjø, Solstad, DeepOcean and Kongsberg Maritime, Remota will be in position to offer DP from Remote Operation Centres to the wider DP market. Our customers will benefit from lower operating costs and higher crew utilisation and flexibility.”
Recently, Kongsberg Maritime has secured a contract to deliver a “comprehensive” equipment package for four new offshore construction vessels (OCVs) to be built at the Chinese shipyard Cosco Nantong for Sea1 Offshore.
The package includes Kongsberg’s K-Pos dynamic positioning systems, integrated control and navigation systems, and battery hybrid DC electrical systems.
