ADNOC Logistics and Services (ADNOC L&S) has unveiled plans for what it says will be the UAE’s first remotely operated offshore landing craft vessels, developed with French technology firm SeaOwl.
The 60-metre unmanned vessels will be operated remotely from ADNOC L&S’s control centre in Mussafah, using AI and satellite connectivity to enable autonomous operations.
The partners note that the autonomous nature of the vessel design removes the need for onboard accommodation, reducing weight and fuel use, while AI-powered route optimisation is expected to cut emissions by up to 30% compared to conventional craft.
Construction of two prototypes will begin by the end of 2025, with delivery planned for the fourth quarter of 2026, followed by sea trials and safety validation in UAE waters.
“This milestone reflects ADNOC L&S’s leadership in redefining the future of maritime logistics and marks a strategic leap in our digital transformation journey,” said Capt Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO of ADNOC L&S.
“By advancing AI-powered remote vessel technology, we are enhancing safety, reducing emissions, and driving cost efficiency across our offshore operations while supporting ADNOC’s and the UAE’s Net Zero goals.”
In the event of communication loss, the vessels’ onboard AI will maintain safe autonomous operation until connection is restored. Each vessel will also include a hybrid power management system to optimise fuel consumption and further reduce emissions.
SeaOwl launched its original Remotely Operated Service at Sea (ROSS) concept in 2020.
