Aker Solutions has successfully installed an autonomous drone system on Aker BP’s Edvard Grieg platform in the North Sea, marking a significant advancement in remote inspection capabilities in the offshore energy industry.

The company recently achieved a milestone by completing the first offshore beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) drone operation, controlled from its onshore command center in Stavanger. The drone, equipped with autonomous navigation features and advanced sensors, conducted inspection flights on Aker BP’s Edvard Grieg platform, capturing high-resolution imagery and data during its rounds.

This achievement represents a major leap towards fully autonomous offshore inspections, with the potential to revolutionize maintenance practices in the energy sector. By leveraging robotics, AI, and digital technologies, Aker Solutions aims to enhance safety, reduce costs, and increase efficiency in managing offshore assets.

Anja Dyb, SVP Life Cycle Services at Aker Solutions, expressed confidence in the transformative impact of autonomous drones on offshore operations, stating, “Permanently deploying a drone on an oil platform, combined with cutting-edge technologies, elevates offshore maintenance to a new level.”

The drone system installed on Edvard Grieg includes a dedicated offshore docking station and supporting infrastructure, along with software systems and an onshore control room. This comprehensive solution incorporates airspace and AIS monitoring, two-way communication with the Helicopter Landing Officer (HLO), and coordination with platform leadership.

Thomas Øvretveit, Director of Operations at Aker BP, highlighted the strategic importance of robotics and drones in the company’s operational approach, emphasizing their role in observation, inspection, and task execution offshore. The successful execution of a remote-controlled drone operation at the Edvard Grieg platform signifies a significant milestone for Aker BP.