Dutch Fugro Signs Agreement with Lloyd’s Register to Simplify Certification Process for Autonomous Uncrewed Surface Vessels

Dutch Fugro has taken a significant step towards streamlining the certification process for its expanding fleet of autonomous uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) by partnering with Lloyd’s Register.

The agreement on a block fee structure is set to simplify the in-service certification and maintenance of Fugro’s USV fleet, making the certification process more efficient. This move will facilitate quicker deployment of vessels and ensure continuous compliance with LR’s Code for Unmanned Marine Systems (UMS).

Collaboration between the two entities began in 2021 with the certification of Fugro’s first Blue Essence vessel, Fugro Maali, by LR. This marked the first certification of an uncrewed system by LR and the issuance of LR’s UMS Certificate. Subsequently, LR has certified four more Fugro vessels with additional vessels currently under construction.

“This agreement is a significant milestone in our partnership with Fugro and the advancement of uncrewed vessel certification. By introducing a block fee structure, we are empowering Fugro to efficiently manage its fleet under LR’s UMS Code, ensuring operational readiness and adherence to regulations,” stated Matthew Palmer, Global Nuclear and Naval Submarines Segment Director at Lloyd’s Register.

“Fugro continues to lead the industry by achieving the first LR UMS Certificate and having the highest number of vessels certified under LR’s UMS Code,” Palmer added.

With Fugro’s fleet rapidly expanding, the new agreement establishes a more streamlined framework for certification, moving away from the previous individual vessel approach to a consolidated block fee structure. This shift reduces administrative complexity and guarantees that the fleet remains compliant with international safety and operational standards.

Fugro’s LR-certified USVs are operational in various regions, including the UK, UAE, Australia, Denmark, and the Netherlands. These vessels conduct a range of tasks such as offshore energy inspections, subsea cable surveys, and environmental monitoring.

“The block fee arrangement with LR is a crucial development in managing our growing fleet. It enables us to effectively maintain our expanding fleet at the highest safety and compliance levels, ensuring our clients receive dependable and high-quality data from our USV operations,” said Jeffrey Tuckerman, Regulatory Compliance Officer at SEA-KIT, a Fugro subsidiary.

“With this agreement in place, we are poised to continue pushing the boundaries of uncrewed maritime technology,” Tuckerman added.