Spanish shipbuilder Astilleros Gondan has delivered the C-506 ‘USV Challenger’, the first Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) built in its main facilities.
The project was developed for USV, a joint venture between Solstad Offshore, Østensjø Rederi and DeepOcean, and is said to represent a key development in the future of shipbuilding.
The 24m long and 7.5m wide USV Challenger was designed by Salt Ship Design to perform underwater inspection, maintenance and repair (IMR), mapping and survey work without the need for an on-board crew. Thanks to its hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system and its ability to operate at sea for up to 30 days, the vessel is expected to cut CO₂ emissions by more than 90% compared to conventional vessels.
Among its innovations is a ROV launch and recovery system designed by DeepOcean. This all-electric underwater robot can operate at depths of up to 1,500m. In addition, it will be equipped with a set of tools that will allow it to carry out a wide variety of tasks such as laying underwater cables.
The vessel is on its way to DeepOcean’s Norwegian facility in Killingøy, Haugesund, where it will obtain approval from the maritime authority to operate fully remotely. Afterwards, it will enter service to perform IMR work for DeepOcean.
The delivery of the USV Challenger is considered to consolidate the shipyard as a reference in the construction of high added value and advanced technology vessels, and to mark another milestone for the company and the evolution of the offshore sector.
Image: ‘USV Challenger’ (source: Gondan)
