Engineering firm Kystdesign has secured a significant contract with the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ) to develop and construct the state-of-the-art Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) known as the Supporter 6000.

Anticipated for delivery in June 2026, the Supporter 6000 is poised to revolutionize marine research capabilities for the entire Dutch scientific community. Designed specifically for ultra-deepwater operations, this advanced ROV boasts the ability to reach depths of up to an impressive 6,000 meters.

Equipped with six high-resolution cameras and 41 electrical connectors, the Supporter 6000 offers seamless interfacing with external equipment such as tooling, survey sensors, and additional cameras. The ROV also features 24 hydraulic functions, all of which are proportionally controlled for precise and efficient operation.

Moreover, the Supporter 6000 is outfitted with cutting-edge technology, including AutoPOS and AutoTRACK capabilities, enabling autonomous operations as well as over-the-horizon control from a Remote Operation Center (ROC) based onshore.

Once operational, the Supporter 6000 will be deployed aboard the RV Anna Weber-van Bosse, the upcoming flagship vessel of the Dutch research fleet. This innovative ROV is set to play a pivotal role in advancing ocean exploration and research endeavors.

Gert-Jan Reichart, head of the NIOZ Ocean Systems department, expressed enthusiasm for the Supporter 6000, stating, “We currently don’t have anything like it available for the Dutch scientific community. The robot is equipped to take over the work of humans at great water depths. With its six high-resolution cameras and strong gripping arms, it forms our eyes and arms underwater. One of them can rotate along seven different axes.”