OceanAlpha’s L25 USV: A Leap Forward in Autonomous Marine Surveying
The L25 unmanned surface vehicle (USV) from OceanAlpha successfully showcased its capabilities during a public demonstration in Port Klang, Malaysia, covering an extraordinary distance of 33 kilometers offshore to highlight its autonomous surveying functions.
Innovative Navigation and Communication
The L25 USV excelled throughout the demonstration,utilizing advanced perception technologies that enabled it to navigate autonomously around anchored vessels in busy waters. It adeptly adjusted its course to maintain safe distances from fast-moving marine traffic.
This event underscored the vessel’s Over-the-Horizon (OTH) capabilities, which are crucial for conducting extensive surveys in remote areas. The L25 maintained stable satellite communications and continuous data transmission even while traveling 33 kilometers offshore.
Addressing Industry Challenges
This demonstration effectively tackled notable challenges faced in offshore marine surveys, particularly the reliance on crewed vessels and the high costs associated with operations that exceed line-of-sight (LOS) control.
The L25’s integrated automated towfish system showcased efficient deployment and retrieval of side-scan sonar equipment, eliminating the need for manual winching and thereby minimizing operational risks.
Real-Time Data Transmission and Decision Making
The vessel’s capability to transmit multibeam, side-scan, and sub-bottom profiler data in real-time for immediate quality control and mission adjustments was a key highlight. This feature significantly shortens decision-making timelines during survey operations.
Pinestone Shi, General Manager of OceanAlpha, remarked, “After our successful demonstration in Dubai this past May, we are excited to introduce another L25 USV to Southeast Asia, showcasing how our autonomous solutions effectively address critical survey challenges.”
Future Prospects and Collaborations
Looking forward, OceanAlpha aims to expand its unmanned surface vessel offerings and extensive solutions globally, enhancing safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in the marine survey sector.
The event, held in late June and attended by over 60 leaders from the maritime industry, was made possible through collaboration with key partners.
The Malaysian Maritime Department facilitated the necesary operational approvals, while Tara Advisory co-hosted the event, leveraging its expertise in autonomous systems to validate the L25’s capabilities practically.
Technical collaborators, including TA geosolutions, Hidrokinetik Technologies, and Clockwise subsea (NOR Offshore Rental), contributed specialized equipment and regional operational knowledge.
Currently, the L25 USV platform is operational in both Southeast Asia and the Middle East, with OceanAlpha continuing to work alongside regional partners to advance autonomous marine survey solutions.
