Abu Dhabi, UAE: Fugro, the world's leading Geo-data provider has announced that the 12 m Blue Essence® uncrewed surface vessel (USV), the Fugro Pegasus, has received full navigation licensing from the UAE Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure. This is the first registration of an over-the-horizon USV in the country, making the Fugro Blue Essence USV the first vessel in its class to meet multiple independent maritime authorities' operational standards.

The Blue Essence® vessel, built by Fugro’s partner SEA-KIT International, can be controlled from anywhere in the world, was designed for inspecting subsea assets. The Remote Inspection Solution incorporates the Blue Volta® e-ROV, that extends the inspection portfolio up to 400 m water depth.. Blue Essence® allows experts to deliver projects from Fugro's onshore remote operations centres (ROCs) safely out of harm's way while experiencing a better work-life balance. Its advanced systems, and an array of geophysical sensors, allow subsea inspection asset and site characterisation surveys, enabling the Fugro Blue Essence® vessel to conduct operations safely and efficiently, reducing emissions by 95% versus conventional vessel operations.

"There were no existing regulations for uncrewed vessels, so we formed a working group with UAE authorities and local partners to facilitate the process," said Hannes Swiegers, Director of Remote Operations, Middle East and India, at Fugro. "We are proud to have achieved the first-ever registration of an over-the-horizon USV in the country and are confident that the vessel will support the UAE's efforts to maintain their subsea infrastructure, whilst contributing to environmental protection and maritime safety." 

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For more information
Hannes Swiegers h.swiegers@fugro.com

About Fugro

Fugro is the world's leading Geo-data specialist, collecting and analysing comprehensive information about the Earth and the structures built upon it. Adopting an integrated approach that incorporates acquisition and analysis of Geo-data and related advice, Fugro provides solutions. With expertise in site characterisation and asset integrity, clients are supported in the safe, sustainable and efficient design, construction and operation of their assets throughout the full lifecycle.

Employing approximately 10,000 talented people in 57 countries, Fugro serves clients around the globe, predominantly in the energy, infrastructure and water industries, both offshore and onshore. In 2022, revenue amounted to EUR 1.8 billion. Fugro is listed on Euronext Amsterdam.

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