Photo credit: Gilles Martin-raget- Exail.

Exail’s DriX O-16: Revolutionizing Oceanic Research in Madeira

Exail is poised to enhance the Oceanic observatory of Madeira’s (OOM) research capabilities with the introduction of its DriX O-16 Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV). This advanced vessel will substantially improve the observatory’s ability to conduct comprehensive scientific and hydrographic surveys across full ocean depths.

Advanced Technology for Enhanced Surveying

The DriX O-16 is outfitted with cutting-edge technology, including a multibeam echo sounder (MBES), Exail Gaps M7 USBL, a biomass echo sounder (EK80), and various oceanographic sensors. These features enable the vessel to excel in underwater asset tracking, provide inertial navigation system (INS) updates, facilitate high-resolution seabed mapping, and conduct precise environmental monitoring, particularly in Madeira’s intricate archipelagic environment.

Facilitating Collaborative Missions

This USV is also designed to support elegant multi-robot collaboration missions, allowing seamless coordination with other USVs, remotely operated vehicles (rovs), and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). Such capabilities are essential for advancing marine research and operational efficiency.

A Commitment to Robotic Innovation

Previously, the Institute has successfully integrated exail’s drix H-8 and R7 ROV into its research framework, showcasing a strong commitment to enhancing robotic operations in ocean monitoring. This ongoing partnership reflects a dedication to innovation in marine technology.

Driving Sustainability in Maritime Operations

As the maritime sector increasingly embraces autonomy and sustainability, the DriX O-16 stands out as a low-carbon, high-efficiency alternative to traditional crewed vessels. Its hybrid propulsion system and optimized design contribute to reduced fuel consumption and lower operational costs, while its autonomous features promote safer and more resource-efficient missions.

Funding and Future Prospects

This acquisition, supported by the Portuguese Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP), highlights a commitment to innovative and lasting solutions that bolster scientific research and environmental progress. The integration of the DriX O-16 into OOM’s fleet marks a meaningful step forward in marine research capabilities.

Voices from leadership

Carlos lopes, Commercial Director at Exail, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to see the DriX O-16 join OOM’s robotic fleet, which underscores the trust in our technology and our mutual goal of advancing hydrographic and oceanographic research. This sale not only strengthens our relationship with OOM but also highlights the DriX O-16’s growing recognition in the global maritime research community.”

Rui Caldeira, Chairman of the Board at ARDITI, added, <em“DriX O-16 will position Portugal at the forefront of marine autonomous robotics.With islands as far as 200 nautical miles apart, the DriX O-16 will facilitate monitoring of Madeira’s expansive Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which spans approximately 500,000 square kilometers. Partnering with Exail has been a privilege as we strive to place Madeira, ARDITI, and its Oceanic observatory at the leading edge of marine autonomous systems.”