Fugro and AD Ports Group formalise autonomous vessel co-operation

The companies have been working together since March this year, and have now signed an agreement to use remote and autonomous technologies in the Middle East region. The partnership will develop guidelines to make the UAE ready to receive USVs, as well as create a platform to implement remote and autonomous technology.

Fugro and AD Ports Group have laid out their joint priorities under the agreement, aiming to jointly establish a remote and autonomous testing area for USVs in the UAE, along with an industry-compliant training programme for Emiratis and international mariners to learn about USV and Marine Autonomous Surface Ship (MASS) operation. The companies will also look to create guidelines to align USV operation with UAE regulation.

The partners have been working together since March to prepare for the arrival of the Middle East’s first USV Fugro Pegasus, which recently made it way to Al Mirfa, Abu Dhabi, where it will be based.

Captain Mohamed Al Yahyaei, Chief Harbour Master, AD Ports Group said: “AD Ports Group is committed to innovating and improving its services, deploying advanced technologies and automation across our operations to drive improvements and greater efficiency. By signing this new agreement with Fugro, we are expanding the range of remote and autonomous technologies available for the maritime sector, as we strive to build a safer, more sustainable and more impactful future.”

David Washbrook, Director, Marine Asset Integrity Middle East and India, Fugro said: “The introduction of our USV technology marks an exciting moment for the maritime industry in the region. The support we have received from AD Ports Group has played a large role in making this a reality and we are proud to call Al Mirfa Port the new home of Fugro Pegasus.”

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