GONDAN Delivers its first unmanned vessel
GONDAN Shipbuilders has delivered its last vessel C-506 USV Challenger, the first Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) built in its main facilities. The project, developed for USV AS – a joint venture between Solstad Offshore, Østensjø Rederi and DeepOcean – represents a key development in the future of shipbuilding.
The 24m long and 7.5m wide USV Challenger has been designed by Salt Ship Design AS 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 will reduce CO₂ emissions by more than 90 % compared to conventional vessels.
Among its innovations is a unique ROV launch and recovery system designed by DeepOcean. This all-electric underwater robot can operate at depths of up to 1,500 metres. 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 facility in Killingøy, Haugesund, where it will obtain approval from the maritime authority to operate fully remotely. Afterwards, it will enter service to perform inspection, maintenance and repair work for DeepOcean.
The delivery of the USV Challenger consolidates GONDAN as a reference in the construction of high added value and advanced technology vessels, and marks another milestone for the company and the evolution of the naval sector.