Norwegian firm Blueye Robotics, in collaboration with Dutch company RVI Tools, has secured a contract to supply underwater remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to the Royal Netherlands Navy. The specifics of the agreement include the delivery of an undisclosed number of ROVs designed with advanced capabilities tailored for military engineers and mine countermeasure teams.
This contract follows a thorough tender process that involved multiple international competitors, emphasizing the competitive nature of the procurement. Blueye Robotics’ CEO Christian Gabrielsen noted, “This contract demonstrates the global trust in the Blueye ROV platform and reinforces our commitment to developing innovative, easy-to-use tools that enhance mission effectiveness and safety underwater.”
The selection of Blueye Robotics was based on various criteria, including system reliability, sensor modularity, ease of use, and operational flexibility in demanding environments. The featured ROVs are designed with a compact and lightweight form factor, allowing for long operational endurance and proven performance across varying depths, from shallow waters to the open sea.
Each ROV will come equipped with an array of sensors and payloads, including sonars, positioning systems, and intervention tools. This extensive equipment roster allows for deployment across a broad spectrum of military and civilian tasks. In addition to the hardware delivery, both Blueye Robotics and RVI Tools will provide on-site training and access to a comprehensive online support portal filled with technical documentation and instructional videos.
The underwater drones are intended for a wide variety of missions. Their capabilities include supporting reconnaissance, mobility and counter-mobility tasks, demolitions, and swimmer delivery operations. They will also be utilized in surface roles to conduct reconnaissance in wetlands and littoral zones, secure sites for potential sabotage, and assist in riverine tactical insertions.
Beyond these primary missions, the ROVs will facilitate military engineer reconnaissance and harbor protection while contributing to mine countermeasure operations. Moreover, their versatility opens avenues for civilian applications, such as search and recovery operations for missing persons or submerged objects and the inspection of military wrecks. This partnership signifies a step forward in enhancing maritime operational capabilities for the Royal Netherlands Navy.
