Sea Machines Robotics unveils new unmanned ‘workboats’

Sea Machines Robotics, a developer of marine autonomous technology, has launched “Selkie”, its latest innovation in unmanned surface vessels (USVs).

The company described the launch as “a momentous move that will further the flood tide of autonomous marine operations”.

The first model, Selkie 7, is a 7-meter USV powered by the company’s flagship SM300 Autonomous Command and Control system, Selkie represents a leap forward in autonomous technology and a new era of marine exploration and operations.

As the first turnkey autonomous vessel released by Sea Machines, Selkie is poised to revolutionize industries ranging from hydrographic surveying, offshore asset inspection, and persistent on water operations such as security and environmental studies.

Selkie is the ideal full solution USV for any task-driven workboat fleet operator wanting to enhance and optimize their routine or persistent long duration on-water work.

Key Features of SELKIE Include:

Robust Autonomous Functions: SELKIE boasts cutting-edge autonomous capabilities, granting users access to advanced functions.

Easy to Use: Quick to learn and ready to command via the highly intuitive single screen graphical user interface.

Survey Ready: With an under-keel sonar mount, CTD winch, and ample power and space to mount customer hardware.

Integrated Payload / Cargo Bay: Equipped with generous built-in cargo storage, equivalent to 2 x 1.3 meters (2 Euro Pallets), Selkie is perfect for long range logistics.

Also complete with remotely controllable deck hatches for deploying payloads at sea like inspection or surveillance UAVs at sea.

High Operational Endurance: With its efficient design and diesel propulsion, Selkie offers an extended operational range for a vessel of her size.

Michael G. Johnson, founder and CEO of Sea Machines, says: “She’s finally here. With 9 years of autonomous development and on water use behind Selkie, our overarching goal is to give customers, the world’s fleet operators, products that enable them to capture new and substantial value from their work.

“With Selkie, commercial operators, researchers, and security agencies can go further, do more, do it better, with less costly or restrictive effort.”