The UID project is now well underway with testing of UIDs, which is one of the most important things the project will do in 2023/2024.

“As we speak” there is an ongoing UID test at K-Lab where the UK company Modus tests its Saab Sabertooth drone in K-Lab’s test pool. These are preliminary tests for a full-scale offshore test with the same vessel on Johan Sverdrup after the summer. There will be tests of vehicles on a charging plate, communication with lights (FSO -Free Space Optics), various UID tools and the software “DeepNet”. See link below from K-Lab from one of our graduate working in the project.

The Oceaneering Freedom vehicle was tested earlier this year on Tau with leak detection sensors attached. This was a successful testing.

On Njord they are ready to receive Saipem’s Hydrone R drone, which is the first UID contract Equinor has signed. Earlier this week, the charging pad for the UID was installed and hooked up and tested that it works. This is the world’s first permanently installed charging plate for UIDs offshore.

The UTC conference has an extra focus on drones this year. Below is an interview of the promotion of the drone project there.