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Blueye Robotics, together with its local partner RVI Tools, has secured a significant international contract to supply underwater remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to the Netherlands Royal Navy. The ROV systems will be delivered with advanced capabilities specifically tailored for military engineers and mine countermeasure (MCM) teams, following a competitive tender process involving multiple international providers.

The awarded contract underscores the increasing need for compact and user-friendly underwater systems capable of supporting complex military operations in inshore and coastal environments.

Versatile mission profiles

The Blueye ROV will be employed in a wide variety of mission profiles. These include diving operations supporting reconnaissance, mobility and counter-mobility tasks, demolitions, and swimmer delivery missions. It will also be used in surface swimmer and small boat operations, such as reconnaissance in wetlands and water-land transition zones, securing sabotage points, and riverine tactical insertion. Military engineer reconnaissance will benefit from the ROV in surveying channels, canals, rivers, and critical water infrastructure including quays, bridges, and locks. In addition, it will assist in harbor protection by enabling both divers and non-divers to conduct underwater inspections and threat detection, aid MCM operations in identifying mine-like objects prior to neutralization, and support civilian authorities in search and recovery (SAR) operations as well as inspections of submerged military wrecks.

Robust and modular design

The ROV supplied by Blueye is a robust, portable, and modular underwater drone designed to meet the demanding needs of maritime professionals. Its ability to carry a variety of sensors and payloads, such as sonars, positioning systems, and intervention tools, provides high versatility across both military and civilian applications.

Reliability and operational excellence

The decision to award the contract to Blueye Robotics and RVI Tools was based on key factors including system reliability, sensor modularity, ease of use, and operational flexibility in challenging environments. The ROV’s lightweight design, extended operational runtime, and proven performance in environments ranging from shallow waters to open sea made it a standout solution.

Christian Gabrielsen, CEO of Blueye Robotics, says: "Together with our highly valued partner, Rutger van Duijn at RVI Tools, we are proud to support the Netherlands Royal Navy with our underwater dual-use ROV technology. This contract demonstrates the global trust in the Blueye ROV platform and reinforces our commitment to developing innovative, easy-to-use tools that enhance mission effectiveness and safety underwater."

Christian Gabrielsen, CEO of Blueye Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster

Training and support

In addition to supplying the hardware, Blueye Robotics and RVI Tools will provide on-site training and access to a comprehensive online support platform featuring technical articles and training videos. Rutger van Duijn, owner of RVI Tools, adds: "We are proud to collaborate with our trusted partner, Blueye Robotics, to deliver their innovative underwater ROV technology to the Netherlands Royal Navy. This agreement highlights the confidence in the Blueye platform and reflects our shared dedication to providing reliable and user-friendly solutions that improve operational efficiency and safety beneath the surface. We look forward to continuing our strong, long-term relationship with both the Netherlands Royal Navy and Blueye Robotics, supporting their missions with our expertise and commitment."

About Blueye Robotics

Blueye Robotics is a Norwegian technology company based in Trondheim with roots in the Centre for Autonomous Marine Operations and Systems (AMOS) at NTNU. Since its founding in 2015, Blueye has delivered over 1,300 ROV systems to customers in more than 60 countries, serving sectors including defense, research, aquaculture, and emergency response.

Blueye Robotics is a proud member of both the Ocean Autonomy Cluster (OAC) and NORDSEC Defence and Security Cluster, and you can meet them at the Forsvarskonferansen on 24 September.

For inquiries about Blueye ROVs or related services, please reach out to Blueye Robotics or RVI Tools.