--- title: News (6) description: (6) --- [![Dark\_yellow-fill\_POS\_powbyFI](https://oceanautonomy.no/hs-fs/hubfs/Dark_yellow-fill_POS_powbyFI.png?width=350&height=49&name=Dark_yellow-fill_POS_powbyFI.png)](https://oceanautonomy.no?hsLang=en-us) - [NEWS](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/news?hsLang=en-us) - ABOUT - [CLUSTER AND TEAM](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/clusterandteam?hsLang=en-us) - [MEMBERSHIP](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/membership?hsLang=en-us) - [MEMBERS](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/members?hsLang=en-us) - PROJECTS - [Dark Drones](https://oceanautonomy.no/dark-drones?hsLang=en-us) - [FI Ocean Space Incubator](https://fi-nor.no/en/oceanspaceincubator/) - [Frostabåten](https://oceanautonomy.no/frostab%C3%A5ten?hsLang=en-us) - [Maritimt studentsenter Nyhavna](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/maritimt-studentsenter-nyhavna?hsLang=en-us) - [MIDAS - Mennesket i framtidens havromsoperasjoner](https://oceanautonomy.no/nb/project_midas?hsLang=en-us) - [MIDAS Academy](https://midas-academy.no/) - 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[CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/squarehead-brings-super-hearing-to-ships) ## [The Board and Executive Management of Innovation Norway visited Fremtidens Industri](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/the-board-and-executive-management-of-innovation-norway-visited-fremtidens-industri) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Apr 18, 2026, 10:00:00 AM [Les saken på norsk](https://fi-nor.no/styret-og-ledelsen-i-innovasjon-norge-besokte-fremtidens-industri/) [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/the-board-and-executive-management-of-innovation-norway-visited-fremtidens-industri) ## [Will captains hesitate to intervene in autonomous ferry operations?](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/will-captains-hesitate-to-intervene-in-autonomous-ferry-operations) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Apr 16, 2026, 3:48:12 PM **If operators are penalized for taking control of autonomous vessels, could that influence critical...** [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/will-captains-hesitate-to-intervene-in-autonomous-ferry-operations) ## [Zeabuz AS secures NOK 40 million in a funding round led by Grieg Kapital to support rapid international deployment and scaling](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/zeabuz-as-secures-nok-40-million-in-a-funding-round-led-by-grieg-kapital-to-support-rapid-international-deployment-and-scaling) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Apr 16, 2026, 2:05:43 PM **Zeabuz AS has secured a NOK 40 million funding round, led by Grieg Kapital AS, with participation...** [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/zeabuz-as-secures-nok-40-million-in-a-funding-round-led-by-grieg-kapital-to-support-rapid-international-deployment-and-scaling) ## [New defense contract awarded to Eelume – strengthening Norwegian subsea](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/new-defense-contract-awarded-to-eelume-strengthening-norwegian-subsea) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Apr 15, 2026, 9:43:47 AM Eelume AS has been awarded a new three-year contract from the Norwegian Ministry of Defence. The... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/new-defense-contract-awarded-to-eelume-strengthening-norwegian-subsea) ## [Maritime autonomous drone swarm demonstrated live for the US Navy in Trondheim](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/autonomy-at-sea-demonstrated-live-for-us-navy-in-trondheim) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Apr 10, 2026, 11:20:27 AM [Les saken på norsk](https://fi-nor.no/maritim-autonom-dronesverm-demonstrert-live-for-us-navy-i-trondheim/) Maritime Robotics demonstrated a maritime autonomous drone swarm for the US... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/autonomy-at-sea-demonstrated-live-for-us-navy-in-trondheim) ## [Norway to deploy electric “flying” ferries – tested in the Trondheim fjord](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/norway-to-deploy-electric-flying-ferries-tested-in-the-trondheim-fjord) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Apr 9, 2026, 8:55:00 AM Norway is taking a major step in zero-emission maritime transport as [Boreal AS](https://www.boreal.no/forside/) has ordered 20... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/norway-to-deploy-electric-flying-ferries-tested-in-the-trondheim-fjord) ## [The critical role of 5G in future of autonomous maritime transport](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/5g-enables-the-worlds-first-autonomous-ferry-route) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Apr 8, 2026, 1:01:05 PM [Les saken på norsk](https://www.nordsec-cluster.no/aktuelt/5g-spiller-kritisk-rolle-i-fremtidens-autonome-maritime-transport) As the maritime industry explores autonomous and semi-autonomous vessels,... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/5g-enables-the-worlds-first-autonomous-ferry-route) ## [Design for Manufacturing in electronics: Lessons shared at breakfast meeting](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/design-for-manufacturing-in-electronics-lessons-shared-at-the-breakfast-meeting) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Mar 24, 2026, 11:44:51 AM [Les saken på norsk](https://fi-nor.no/design-for-manufacturing-i-elektronikk-erfaringer-delt-pa-frokostmote/) Trondheim continues to strengthen its position as a hub for ocean technology... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/design-for-manufacturing-in-electronics-lessons-shared-at-the-breakfast-meeting) ## [New partnership to strengthen Trondheim as a test arena for ocean technology](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/new-partnership-to-strengthen-trondheim-as-a-test-arena-for-ocean-technology) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Mar 23, 2026, 2:39:56 PM Trondheim is taking another step to reinforce its position as a leading technology city within... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/new-partnership-to-strengthen-trondheim-as-a-test-arena-for-ocean-technology) ## On the same subject ### [Breach VR: Reality is cross-platform](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/breach-vr-reality-is-cross-platform) [Aida Refvik Angell](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/aida-refvik-angell) [VR](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/tag/vr), [Breach VR](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/tag/breach-vr) ### [The Ocean Space Incubator in Trøndelag: Will strengthen Norway’s position in ocean space technology](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/the-ocean-space-incubator-will-strengthen-norways-position-in-ocean-space-technology) [Birgit Thorsen](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/birgit-thorsen) [Uncategorized](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/tag/uncategorized) ### [Autonomimiljøet i Midt-Norge får støtte til millionprosjekt](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/autonomimiljoet-i-midt-norge-far-stotte-til-millionprosjekt) [malin](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/malin) [Uncategorized](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/tag/uncategorized) - - [4](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/page/4) - [5](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/page/5) - [6](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/page/6) - [7](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/page/7) - [8](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/page/8) - ##### About Ocean Autonomy Cluster Ocean Autonomy Cluster is awarded The ECEI BRONZE Label “Striving for Cluster Excellence” [![Bronze label](https://oceanautonomy.no/hs-fs/hubfs/Bronze%20label.png?width=180&height=70&name=Bronze%20label.png)](https://www.cluster-analysis.org/benchmarked-clusters)   ##### Links - [NEWS](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/news) - ABOUT - PROJECTS - [NEWS](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/news) ##### Contact us [Frode@fi-nor.no](mailto:Frode@fi-nor.no) +47 918 45 969 Skippergata 14 - 7040 Trondheim-NORWAY [Subscribe for newsletter](https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1drRpuCknT9Gj2pUOE-9pVgft8sx) ![Dark\_yellow-fill\_POS (3)](https://oceanautonomy.no/hs-fs/hubfs/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png?width=322&height=45&name=Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png) [![FI\_logo\_stor](https://oceanautonomy.no/hs-fs/hubfs/FI_logo_stor.png?width=41&height=41&name=FI_logo_stor.png)](https://fi-nor.no/) ![FI - redigert logo](https://oceanautonomy.no/hs-fs/hubfs/FI%20-%20redigert%20logo.png?width=174&height=58&name=FI%20-%20redigert%20logo.png)    ©2026 Copyright . All rights reserved. [Privacy policy](https://oceanautonomy.no/privacy-policy?hsLang=en-us) - - - ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "The Norwegian company Squarehead Technology is introducing advanced acoustic monitoring to the maritime sector. Using AI and directional microphone arrays, the company’s technology can detect abnormal sounds in engine rooms and machinery spaces, long before a trained technichian can detect a problem. The system is designed for ships and other maritime assets where early detection of technical issues can prevent costly downtime and improve safety. The technology is now being tested on vessels operated by Fjord1 and will soon be deployed on ferries operating the Lavik–Oppedal route on Norway’s west coast. Bridge on MF Skopphorn. Photo: Squarehead Listening for early warning signs Mechanical faults often originate as subtle acoustic signatures as small variations in vibration, cavitation, or mechanical movement. In practice, many faults are first discovered by experienced mechanics with a trained ear and deep familiarity with the machine. Without their presence, these early signals are easily missed, making detection inconsistent and largely a matter of chance. While vibration sensors and other monitoring systems can also reveal developing issues, achieving full coverage requires multiple sensor types—introducing added complexity, cost, and maintenance challenges. In practice, it is neither feasible nor realistic to instrument everything, and sensors themselves may fail or drop out without being detected, increasing the risk that early-stage faults go unnoticed. FPSO engineroom, FPSO Knarr. Photo: Squarehead Acoustic monitoring is not intended to replace such sensors or necessarily detect faults earlier; rather, when a deviation becomes audible, the issue has typically already developed to a stage where action is required. The value lies instead in providing continuous coverage across entire machinery spaces, including equipment that is not already instrumented. Squarehead’s solution uses advanced microphone arrays combined with AI-based acoustic analysis to continuously monitor sound patterns in machinery spaces. When the system detects deviations from normal operation, it can alert operators and help locate the source of the sound. In effect, the system adds an additional layer of safety, comparable to having an experienced mechanic continuously present in the engine room, equipped with enhanced hearing and the ability to precisely pinpoint and communicate emerging issues across all onboard systems. In practice, the system provides something close to “superhearing” inside complex engine and pump rooms. The users really gain a superhuman awareness by using our equipment,” product manager Jørgen Grythe explains. Jørgen Grythe, Product Manager at Squarehead Technology By detecting anomalies early, operators can intervene before minor issues develop into serious technical failures. The technology also represents a new layer of digital situational awareness for vessels. By translating sound into actionable data, the system effectively digitalizes one of the most important human senses – hearing – allowing both onboard crews and remote operators to monitor vessel systems in real time. MF Skopphorn. Photo: Squarehead Testing on Fjord1 vessels The technology is currently being tested on the ferry MF Skopphorn, which operates the Sykkylven–Magerholm route close to Ålesund. Following a successful test phase on the Sykkylven–Magerholm route, which demonstrated the system’s effectiveness and convinced Fjord1 of its value, the acoustic monitoring technology from Squarehead will now be implemented on the new vessels operating the Lavik–Oppedal ferry connection. The 5.6-kilometre crossing runs across the Sognefjord from Lavik in Høyanger municipality to Ytre Oppedal in Gulen municipality and takes around 20 minutes. From autumn 2026, four new zero-emission ferries will operate the route with a high degree of automation of vessel systems, Peter A. Brønlund explains. Peter A. Brønlund, General Manager and Business Development Director Lavik–Oppedal is planned to become the world’s first autonomous ferry connection. The vessels will initially operate with advanced automation, while features such as autocrossing and autodocking are expected to be introduced in 2027. Fully autonomous navigation is planned from 2028. In such highly automated vessels, new types of sensor systems are needed to provide situational awareness not only of the external environment, but also of internal vessel systems, Brønlund adds. Acoustic monitoring can play an important role in this sensor ecosystem by detecting anomalies in engines, pumps and other mechanical systems before they escalate into technical failures. Testing in freshwater pumproom at FPSO Knarr. Photo: Squarehead Part of a broader autonomy technology ecosystem The Lavik–Oppedal project involves several technology companies contributing to the autonomous capabilities of the vessels. Ocean Autonomy Cluster member SentiSystems is developing sensor fusion technology that integrates data from multiple sensors to provide precise positioning and situational awareness, even in GNSS-denied environments. Together, technologies such as sensor fusion for navigation and acoustic monitoring of vessel systems form part of the broader technology stack needed to enable safe and reliable autonomous maritime operations. From defense technology to maritime operations Squarehead has long experience in advanced acoustic sensing technology and is well established in the defense sector. Our systems are widely used for acoustic drone detection and airspace monitoring, identifying drones based on their sound signatures. We are now applying this expertise to maritime applications, where acoustic sensing can be used to monitor vessel machinery and detect anomalies. Jørgen Grythe says. As shipping moves toward higher levels of automation and remote operation, technologies that digitalize human senses, such as vision, positioning and hearing, are becoming increasingly important components of future vessel operations. Squarehead Acoustic sensor. Photo: Squarehead Squarehead Squarehead is a Norwegian technology company specializing in advanced acoustic sensor systems and AI-driven anomaly detection. Its solutions enable real-time monitoring of critical onboard systems, enhancing situational awareness, safety, and operational efficiency in maritime and autonomous environments. By combining directional audio technology with machine learning, Squarehead supports the transition toward more reliable and fully autonomous vessel operations. Squarehead Technology is a member of Ocean Autonomy Cluster and an incubator company in the FI Ocean Space Incubator in Trondheim.", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "19/04/2026", "datePublished" : "19/04/2026", "headline" : "Squarehead brings “superhearing” to ships", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Squarehead3.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/squarehead-brings-super-hearing-to-ships", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Les saken på norsk Fremtidens Industri recently hosted the board and executive management of Innovation Norway for a professional program focused on defence, dual-use technology, and cluster development. The visit provided a comprehensive introduction to the entire Fremtidens Industri ecosystem, including its business incubator, innovation hub, and the testing and development environments that form part of the cluster. The purpose of the visit was to strengthen the knowledge base of the delegation, while also giving them the opportunity to become better acquainted with the clusters and a selection of companies within the ecosystem. Thomas Nygaard, Eelume. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri With companies from NORDSEC and Ocean Autonomy Cluster as the main framework, participants gained insight into how companies in Trøndelag are positioning themselves at the intersection of civilian and military applications. Activities from RENERGY were also presented, highlighting the breadth of the ecosystem—from energy solutions to advanced ocean technology. ROV from Blueye Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Technology for civilian and military applications Among the companies presenting were Radionor Communications, Nordiq Products, Maritime Robotics, and SentiSystems, all offering solutions relevant to both civilian and military needs. Radionor develops robust wireless communication systems designed to operate in demanding environments, including areas where traditional infrastructure is unavailable or disrupted. Nordiq Products develops an ultra-portable medical monitor (LiSa™) for continuous monitoring of vital signs such as respiration, pulse, and oxygen saturation in demanding operational settings. The solution is aimed at military medical teams, emergency services, and prehospital care, where reliable patient monitoring is critical. Christian Gabrielsen, Blueye Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Maritime Robotics is a leading provider of unmanned surface vessels (USVs), offering autonomous platforms for surveillance, mapping, and offshore operations. SentiSystems develops technology for GNSS-denied environments, addressing the growing need for robust positioning and data links where satellite signals are unavailable. “Work carried out in and around Fremtidens Industri is important for Trøndelag, but clearly also for Norway and internationally. Our board and executive management were deeply impressed by what we saw and heard during the visit, and we are pleased to see that Innovation Norway’s instruments are being actively utilized. We look forward to following this important work going forward. Many thanks to everyone who contributed to an inspiring program,” says Håkon Haugli, CEO of Innovation Norway. Håkon Haugli, Innovation Norway. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Live demonstration at Nyhavna One of the highlights of the program was a live demonstration in the Nyhavna harbour basin. Here, participants experienced technology in action from Blueye Robotics, Maritime Robotics, and Eelume. The demonstration included both remotely operated and autonomous underwater solutions, ranging from compact ROVs to advanced unmanned surface vessels and subsea systems for inspection and maintenance of critical infrastructure. The delegation from Innovation Norway was highly engaged throughout the visit, with many questions and constructive discussions. The interest in the technologies and their applications was evident, both during the presentations and on the quay during the demonstration. Maritime Robotics’ USV Otter in the Nyhavna harbour basin. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri “We at Innovation Norway Trøndelag are very proud of what was showcased during our visit to Fremtidens Industri. We have highly capable clusters within energy, autonomy, and defence, with companies like Radionor and Maritime Robotics serving as natural spearheads” says Vigdis Harsvik, Regional Director of Innovation Norway Trøndelag. Vigdis Harsvik, Director, Innovation Norway Trøndelag. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri “It is important for us to showcase what we are working on—both how we operate and, not least, a selection of the many innovative companies being created and developed within the network,” says Bjørn Damhaug, CEO of Fremtidens Industri. The visit underscores the growing interest in defence and dual-use technology in Trøndelag, and the importance of close collaboration between clusters, companies, and public support instruments to strengthen innovation capacity, export opportunities, and industrial preparedness. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Stein Ivar Strøm, Head of Department, Innovation Norway Trøndelag. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Thomas Nygaard, Eelume. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Eirik Hovstein, Maritime Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "18/04/2026", "datePublished" : "18/04/2026", "headline" : "The Board and Executive Management of Innovation Norway visited Fremtidens Industri", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Bes%C3%B8k%20Innovasjon%20Norge%20Foto%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Fremtidens%20Industri%20%2844%29.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/the-board-and-executive-management-of-innovation-norway-visited-fremtidens-industri", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "If operators are penalized for taking control of autonomous vessels, could that influence critical safety decisions at sea? That is the question raised by Asbjørn Lein Aalberg, PhD candidate in Safety Management at Industrial Economics and Technology Management, and Ole Andreas Alsos, Professor of Interaction Design at the Department of Design at NTNU and head of NTNU Shore Control Lab. High ambitions for automation The Norwegian Public Roads Administration is planning extensive use of automated ferry operations on the Lavik–Oppedal route from autumn. The concept involves fully autonomous ferries monitored from shore. The contract framework includes strong incentives to minimize human intervention. Operators may face penalties of up to NOK 240 million if automation targets are not met, while all manual overrides must be logged. From next year, at least 10 percent of departures, and five consecutive days, must be conducted without human intervention. By 2034, the requirement increases to 80 percent of departures and 20 consecutive days. Financial penalties for intervention These mechanisms may have unintended consequences, according to Aalberg. “Sooner or later, situations will arise where an operator feels the need to intervene,” he says. “This may be due to system failure, lack of trust, or simply a sense that something is not right.” Each intervention is recorded and may contribute to financial penalties. “In practice, this creates a system where both the operator and the crew will feel the consequences if intervention happens too often,” Aalberg adds. Alsos points to how such systems shape behaviour. “When every intervention is logged and linked to penalties, it inevitably affects how operators think and act.” Raising the threshold for action While both emphasize that crews will act in clear danger, Aalberg warns about more ambiguous situations. “In situations of uncertainty, sanctions may raise the threshold for taking control,” he explains. He points to established findings in safety research. “We know that accidents are particularly likely when control is transferred from automated systems to humans.” Alsos underlines the operational implications. “If operators do not regularly practice manual control, their skills deteriorate. Training in taking over control is essential.” This challenge is closely linked to Aalberg’s PhD research, which examines the safety implications of bridge officers’ trust in automated and autonomous technology. His work explores how maritime operators adopt advanced systems, and whether their perceived level of trust aligns with the actual reliability of the technology. A key premise is that safe operations depend on calibrated trust, neither over-reliance nor under-trust, but a balance that supports sound decision-making in critical situations. Ole Andreas Alsos, professor at NTNU Department of Design and lead Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Operational pressure shapes decisions Ferry contracts already include strict requirements for punctuality and emissions—widely seen as positive for both passengers and the environment. “Crew members are highly skilled at optimizing operations to meet these demands,” says Aalberg. “They use experience, collaboration, and judgment to reduce fuel consumption and ensure a good passenger experience.” At the same time, these requirements influence behaviour. “We see that contractual pressure can affect decisions—for example, whether to increase speed slightly to maintain schedules,” Aalberg notes. “This is often framed as human error, but it is better understood as a consequence of the system they operate within.” Who is to blame when something goes wrong? A central issue is how responsibility is assigned in complex systems involving both humans and automation. “If a ferry fails to intervene in time and collides with the quay, who is to blame?” Aalberg asks. “Is it the technology, the operator, or the human?” Alsos highlights a recurring pattern. “The maritime sector has a tendency to place responsibility on the captain, even when technological or organizational factors play a role.” NTNU Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri A flawed view of automation Aalberg believes the current approach reflects an outdated understanding of automation. “There is an assumption that automation can remove the human from the system,” he says. “Computers do not get tired and can execute tasks with speed and precision.” However, he emphasizes that human competence remains essential. “Seafarers are better at anticipating how weather, wind, and traffic affect a vessel. They manage complex situations and handle unforeseen events.” See also: Situation awareness by design: Advancing remote operation of autonomous vessels Encouraging intervention—not discouraging it While the intention behind the requirements is understandable, Aalberg questions the approach. “Financial penalties risk influencing whether operators intervene in situations where they actually should,” he says. His conclusion is clear. “Crew should be encouraged to intervene when necessary—not discouraged from doing so.” About MIDAS The MIDAS project (Humans in Future Ocean Operations) takes a systematic approach to one of the core challenges in maritime autonomy: the evolving role of people in increasingly automated systems. The project brings together industry, academia, and clusters to address human factors, trust in autonomy, and the design of effective human–machine interaction. A key premise is the so-called “automation paradox”, that as systems become more autonomous, the human role becomes more critical, not less. By combining research, education, and industry collaboration, MIDAS aims to strengthen both safety and innovation capacity in the development and deployment of autonomous maritime operations. See also: Teknisk Ukeblad: Griper kapteinen inn når en selvkjørende ferge feiler? (NO)", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "16/04/2026", "datePublished" : "16/04/2026", "headline" : "Will captains hesitate to intervene in autonomous ferry operations?", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Ole%20Andreas%20Alsos%20presenting%20NTNU%20Shore%20Control%20Lab%20-%20Photo%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Fremtidens%20Industri.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/will-captains-hesitate-to-intervene-in-autonomous-ferry-operations", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Zeabuz AS has secured a NOK 40 million funding round, led by Grieg Kapital AS, with participation from Eitzen AS and Barclay Holding AS, alongside existing shareholders. The funding represents the company’s largest capital raise to date and comes as 2026 is already shaping up to be the strongest year in Zeabuz’s history, with multiple new contracts secured across both civilian and defense & security applications. As part of the transaction, Eirik Barclay, owner of Barclay Holdings AS, will join Zeabuz as Executive Chair. The new capital will be used to expand the organization, strengthen delivery capacity, and support a growing number of deployments across international markets. “This investment comes at a defining moment for Zeabuz,” said Øyvind Smogeli, CEO & Co-Founder of Zeabuz. “We are seeing a clear shift from pilot projects to full-scale deployment across both commercial and defense applications. This funding enables us to scale in line with growing demand from partners who are now ready to move into operational use of autonomous systems.” Grieg Kapital AS, as lead investor, brings strong maritime and industrial expertise and will play an active role in supporting Zeabuz’s continued growth. “We are proud to lead this round alongside Eitzen and a strong group of co-investors, and we look forward to supporting Zeabuz as they scale. The company has demonstrated an impressive ability to move from technology development to real-world deployment,” said Magnus Sørensen Ullereng of Grieg Kapital, adding that: “We see strong potential in the company’s dual-use strategy and its position in a rapidly developing market for autonomous maritime solutions. As lead investor in this round, we have had the privilege of getting to know Zeabuz up close – their technology, their team, and their commercial ambitions. What we found is a company that is genuinely ahead of the curve in maritime autonomy, operating in two markets that are both growing fast.” Fridtjof Eitzen, of Eitzen AS, commented: “At Eitzen, we have made a clear strategic commitment to electrification and autonomous vessel operations — two technologies we believe will drive a step-change in how ships are designed and operated. Zeabuz is among the few companies at the forefront of this development, and this investment reflects our strong conviction in their ability to lead the transition. We are pleased to support their continued growth and global ambitions.” Eirik Barclay, incoming Executive Chair, added: “Zeabuz is entering a pivotal phase where proven technology meets accelerating market demand. What stands out is the company’s ability to translate autonomy into scalable, real-world operations. This capital raise strengthens the foundation for disciplined growth. I look forward to working closely with the team and Board to scale the company internationally, strengthen governance, and support the next phase of commercial expansion.” Looking ahead, Zeabuz will continue to build on its dual-use strategy, working closely with partners across industries to accelerate adoption and unlock new operational models for autonomous maritime systems. As regulatory frameworks evolve and market confidence strengthens, the company is well positioned to play a central role in shaping the future of maritime operations. The round reflects strong conviction from both new and existing investors, reinforcing confidence in Zeabuz’s commercial momentum, scalable technology platform, and global ambitions. About Zeabuz AS Zeabuz is a Norwegian technology company developing autonomous maritime solutions for civilian and defense applications. The company enables scalable, safe, and cost-efficient operations through advanced autonomy systems designed for real-world deployment.", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "16/04/2026", "datePublished" : "16/04/2026", "headline" : "Zeabuz AS secures NOK 40 million in a funding round led by Grieg Kapital to support rapid international deployment and scaling", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark%20Drones%202026%20-%20Demo%20Day%20Foto%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Fremtidens%20Industri%20%282%29.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/zeabuz-as-secures-nok-40-million-in-a-funding-round-led-by-grieg-kapital-to-support-rapid-international-deployment-and-scaling", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Eelume AS has been awarded a new three-year contract from the Norwegian Ministry of Defence. The contract builds on the further development of the company’s autonomous underwater vehicle, Eelume S (All-Terrain AUV), and will be carried out in close collaboration with the Norwegian Armed Forces. Through the agreement, Eelume will develop and demonstrate seamless interoperability between Eelume S and a wide range of military platforms. The objective is to expand the operational scope of unmanned underwater systems and enhance capabilities for operations in complex and confined environments. Over time, Eelume has demonstrated its capabilities in cooperation with several units within the Norwegian Armed Forces, particularly within mine countermeasures (MCM – operations to detect, identify, and neutralize mines), ISR – intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and handling of UXO – unexploded ordnance – from the Arctic to southern Norway. Feedback has been highly positive. Minister of Defence Tore O. Sandvik is presented with Eelume’s technology by Thomas Nygaard. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri “This contract confirms our relevance across multiple branches of the Armed Forces and facilitates expanded use of our systems on military platforms,” says Thomas Nygaard of Eelume. He also highlights that the technology has been developed in close collaboration with both defense and research environments: “Eelume brings forward groundbreaking technology developed in cooperation with the Norwegian Armed Forces, FFI, research institutions, and companies within the energy sector tied to critical infrastructure. This enables integrated solutions with a high degree of interoperability, at a fraction of the cost compared to more traditional systems used in operational scenarios.” The contract illustrates how the Norwegian supplier industry contributes to strengthening defense capabilities through advanced autonomous technology, and underscores the importance of collaboration between defense, industry, and research environments. Photo: Eelume See also: Launching a new unmanned surface vessel for mine countermeasures About Eelume Eelume AS develops autonomous, self-propelled underwater robots designed for continuous operation in demanding environments. The company’s technology is particularly aimed at inspection, maintenance, and intervention on subsea installations, including critical infrastructure within the energy and defense sectors. Eelume originates from the research environment at NTNU and has developed its technology in close collaboration with both industry players and the defense sector. Its solutions are characterized by high flexibility, a low logistical footprint, and the ability to conduct long-duration operations without the need for surface vessels. The company is a member of NORDSEC Defence and Security Cluster and also participates in Ocean Autonomy Cluster and FI Ocean Space Incubator. Eelume is also represented at the Defence Conference, where future operational needs and technological solutions for the defense sector are discussed. See also: Maritime Robotics and Eelume form partnership to advance ocean exploration Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri See also: Equinor adopts Eelume S for advanced subsea inspection", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "15/04/2026", "datePublished" : "15/04/2026", "headline" : "New defense contract awarded to Eelume – strengthening Norwegian subsea", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Eelume%20Foto%20klasbuno%202.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/new-defense-contract-awarded-to-eelume-strengthening-norwegian-subsea", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Les saken på norsk Maritime Robotics demonstrated a maritime autonomous drone swarm for the US Navy during a live operation in the Trondheim Fjord on 9 April. The demonstration showed how multiple unmanned surface vessels operate in coordinated real time, with integrated sensors, remote control, and autonomous collaboration in realistic maritime scenarios. – The US is in the lead. They are placing orders now to build up their arsenal. They understand that you cannot wait two years and see how this develops, says Eirik Hovstein, Vice President Defence & Security at Maritime Robotics. Autonomous maritime operations were taken from concept to practice as multiple USVs were deployed in realistic scenarios. The demonstration provided participants with a concrete understanding of platform capabilities, including remote control, real-time data transmission, and supervised autonomy in dynamic environments. Eirik Hovstein, Maritime Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Maritime drone swarm demonstration One of the highlights was the demonstration of a maritime autonomous drone swarm, where multiple vessels operated in coordinated formation to simulate the protection of a mothership, a concept that is becoming increasingly important in modern naval operations. Autonomous maritime drone swarm. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri – The way warfare was conducted a year ago – you would not have survived more than a couple of days today, said Hovstein. The maneuver illustrated how multiple autonomous platforms can operate together under remote supervision, combining autonomy with effective vessel-to-vessel cooperation. Seabed mapping, autonomous navigation and collision avoidance. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Operations in practice Maritime Robotics’ autonomous vessel Mariner USV carried out advanced seabed mapping, while the larger Mariner X demonstrated autonomous navigation and collision avoidance in dynamic conditions. The larger vessels departed from Maritime Robotics’s base in Vanvikan on Fosen, while the smaller Otter units operated in the Trondheim harbour basin. All operations were controlled from the company’s Remote Operations Center (ROC) at Brattørkaia in Trondheim, where real-time monitoring and control were maintained throughout the demonstration. Mariner X. Photo: Maritime Robotics The Otter platform also carried out deployment and recovery of an underwater ROV, demonstrating how surface and subsea systems can be integrated for real-time data collection. The demonstration was streamed live to a broad international audience, with real-time data feeds including sonar (MBES), magnetometer data, and video shared throughout the operation. This provided direct insight into key enabling technologies such as beyond-line-of-sight communication, sensor fusion, and human–machine interfaces. Otter units operating in the Trondheim harbour basin Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri International interest The event was conducted in collaboration with Koniag Government Services. A technical Q&A session followed, allowing participants to explore operational aspects such as logistics, deployment, and mission-specific adaptation. – The pace of development is so fast that technology that was cutting-edge only a few months ago can quickly become outdated, said Hovstein. – The market is so large that we have no chance of covering it alone, and the maritime drone industry is not set up for scale. Very few players are able to produce thousands of units per year, said Eirik Hovstein. Experience from Ukraine also demonstrates the operational maturity of the systems, including their use in clearing sea lanes for mine threats to enable Ukrainian grain exports in the Black Sea. Eirik Hovstein, Vice President Defence & Security at Maritime Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri – The systems we delivered in 2023 are still operational – that says something about their robustness. They are being used in some of the most demanding conditions imaginable. In 2025, our systems identified more than 70 subsea objects, and the operators down there are the most experienced we have seen, they use the systems every day and continuously push their limits, said Eirik Hovstein. The strong international interest contrasts with more limited domestic attention, but underscores a rapidly growing global demand for unmanned systems that enhance maritime security and operational efficiency at sea. – It is striking that Norway does not yet have operational maritime drones, Eirik Hovstein adds. Mariner USV and Mariner X departed from their base in Vanvikan. Photo: Maritime Robotics Part of strong cluster collaboration Maritime Robotics is a member of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, NORDSEC Nordic Defence and Security Cluster, and Maritimt Forum Midt-Norge, main partner for Testination - Test Arena for Maritime Operations in Trondheimsfjorden, as well as an incubator company in the FI Ocean Space Incubator, where the company works closely with a range of other companies across the cluster networks. For members of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster and NORDSEC, the demonstration highlighted both the maturity of Norwegian-developed technology and the expanding international market for autonomous maritime systems. Eirik Hovstein in interview with Teknisk Ukeblad. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri. Video from the demo", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "10/04/2026", "datePublished" : "10/04/2026", "headline" : "Maritime autonomous drone swarm demonstrated live for the US Navy in Trondheim", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Maritime%20Robotics%20Demo%20US%20Navy%20Photo%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Fremtidens%20Industri%20%2859%29.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/autonomy-at-sea-demonstrated-live-for-us-navy-in-trondheim", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Norway is taking a major step in zero-emission maritime transport as Boreal AS has ordered 20 electric hydrofoil ferries from Candela Technology. Both companies are members of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, underlining how collaboration across industry players is helping accelerate the shift towards sustainable maritime operations. The order represents the world’s largest deployment of electric hydrofoil vessels to date and signals a breakthrough for high-speed, zero-emission passenger transport along the Norwegian coastline, where long distances and demanding conditions have traditionally made electrification difficult. Demonstrated in Trondheim The technology has already been tested in Norwegian waters. During trial operations on the Trondheimsfjorden, the vessel – referred to locally as the “Frostabåten” – demonstrated how hydrofoil technology can perform under real operating conditions. Frostabåten is also a FI Ocean Space Incubator project. The Candela P-12 is a 40-foot (12 m) vessel with seating for 30 passengers and a speed of 25 knots. By lifting the hull above the water at higher speeds, the vessel reduces drag significantly and achieves far lower energy consumption than conventional fast ferries. The test runs in Trondheim showed stable performance in varying sea states and confirmed the potential for electrifying routes that are currently dependent on diesel-powered vessels. For regions with fjords and dispersed communities, this represents a meaningful step towards viable zero-emission high-speed transport. The concept has also been demonstrated in other Norwegian waters, including the Oslofjord, further validating the technology across different operating environments. Test-sailing Candela P-12 Unlocking electric high-speed transport While Norway is already a global leader in electrification, high-speed passenger vessels have remained one of the most challenging segments to decarbonise. The Candela P-12 addresses this by using computer-controlled hydrofoils that allow the vessel to “fly” above the water, cutting energy consumption by up to 80 percent. This efficiency enables a combination of speed and range that has previously been difficult to achieve with electric propulsion. At the same time, the vessel can be charged using standard DC fast chargers, reducing the need for costly and time-consuming grid upgrades in coastal areas. From pilot to large-scale deployment The first two vessels are expected to be delivered in 2027, with the remaining fleet phased in towards 2030. Boreal AS plans to deploy the vessels on a mix of urban and regional routes, both in Norway and internationally. While specific routes have yet to be confirmed, Boreal sees significant potential along large parts of the Norwegian coastline. The company is currently in dialogue with partners across commercial routes, tourism and charter operations, as well as public transport services, targeting both urban commuter markets and rural connections. The initiative illustrates how operators and technology developers—working closely within environments such as the Ocean Autonomy Cluster—can move from testing and validation to full-scale deployment of new maritime solutions. “Candela P-12 is the only electric passenger vessel that combines longer range with high speed without requiring extensive charging infrastructure. Our investment will enable new high speed routes both in cities and in rural areas,” says Nikolai Knudsmoen Utheim, CEO at Boreal. “Norway has already led the electrification of maritime transport. With this fleet, Boreal wants to take the next step—accelerating zero-emission high-speed travel along the Norwegian coast and helping bring electric vessels to new markets beyond Norway.” “We are working with relevant stakeholders to develop specific routes, including in areas where the technology has already been tested, such as the Oslofjord and the Trondheim region. These projects will now mature further ahead of the first vessel deliveries,” says Jon Kristian Fadnes, Head of Communications at Boreal. From Trondheim trials to commercial deployment “The Trondheim Fjord trials proved that electric hydrofoils can operate safely and efficiently even in winter, while enabling assisted autonomy functions that improve reliability. As Boreal now moves toward the first fleet deployment, our shared task in Trøndelag is to demonstrate that this technology can also be operated commercially on real routes,” says Linda Cathrine Hald, Project Manager, Ocean Space Incubator. “With Boreal and Candela as members of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, and Boreal as a core partner in Testination, this collaboration shows how Norway’s maritime ecosystem can move from pilots to full operations. Our next step is to build out the supporting systems around the vessels: digital and autonomy assisted operations, remote monitoring, energy and charging concepts, and flexible route models that make high speed zero emission transport commercially viable along the Norwegian coast, ”Hald adds. Frode Halvorsen, manager of Ocean Autonomy Cluster and Linda Cathrine Hald, project manager for Frostabåten at FI Ocean Space Incubator. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri About Boreal AS Boreal is a Norwegian public transport operator providing bus, ferry and fast-boat services across the country. The company has taken a leading role in introducing zero-emission solutions in maritime transport and continues to explore new concepts for sustainable and efficient passenger mobility along the coast. Boreal is also a key partner for Testination - the Trondheimfjorden testbed for autonomus technology. About Candela Technology Candela is a Swedish technology company specialising in electric hydrofoil vessels. Through the integration of lightweight materials, advanced sensors and flight control systems, the company has developed vessels capable of operating efficiently at high speed while significantly reducing energy consumption, enabling new possibilities for electric transport at sea.", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "09/04/2026", "datePublished" : "09/04/2026", "headline" : "Norway to deploy electric “flying” ferries – tested in the Trondheim fjord", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Frostab%C3%A5ten%20torsdag%2018%20desember%202025%20-%20Foto%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Fremtidens%20Industri%20%286%29.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/norway-to-deploy-electric-flying-ferries-tested-in-the-trondheim-fjord", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Les saken på norsk As the maritime industry explores autonomous and semi-autonomous vessels, reliable 5G connectivity is emerging as a cornerstone for safe and efficient operations. Projects across Norway are demonstrating how high-speed, low-latency networks enable real-time monitoring, control, and data management for vessels. The Lavik–Oppedal route across the Sognefjord, operated by Fjord1, is set to become the world’s first autonomous ferry connection. The route is 5.6 kilometers long, part of the E39 highway network, and is Norway’s ninth largest ferry connection, with 1.2 million passenger car equivalents recorded in 2022. In the first half of 2026, Fjord1 will receive four zero-emission ferries that will begin operating on the route from September 2026, which will gradually become autonomous by 2030. The goal is for the vessels to eventually operate as self-sailing ferries with a high degree of automation. These ferries will rely on ultra-fast and stable network connectivity, with Norwegian Electric Systems (NES) providing the autonomy system that enables them to sail from quay to quay, dock, load, and unload with minimal human intervention. As a sub-supplier to NES we find SentiSystems that helps increase system resilience by providing advanced sensor data processing, enabling operation even when GPS/GNSS signals are jammed or spoofed. Arne Kjørsvik, CEO of SentiSystems. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri “SentiSystems’ solutions enable robust processing of sensor data, allowing vessels to operate safely even in environments where GPS/GNSS signals are jammed or spoofed,” says Arne Kjørsvik, CEO of SentiSystems. This capability is critical for increasing system resilience in safety-critical maritime operations. SentiSystems is a member of both Ocean Autonomy Cluster and NORDSEC Nordic Defence and Security Cluster. Photo: Fjord1 See also: Situation awareness by design: Advancing remote operation of autonomous vessels 5G as critical infrastructure Autonomous operations generate enormous amounts of data, and stable, high-speed data traffic is essential. This applies broadly to the future of autonomous maritime transport, beyond individual ferry routes, enabling developers and operators to test, monitor, and refine autonomous systems. “Autonomy at sea requires extremely high uptime and low latency. Without reliable 5G, the ferries could not operate safely or efficiently,” says Ørjan Midttun, IT Manager at Fjord1. Ole Magnar Lillestøl and Ørjan Midttun. Photo: Fjord1 The ferries continuously transmit real-time data from cameras, sensors, and navigation systems to the control center in Florø. To handle this, Telia is deploying new 5G mmWave technology, offering speeds of up to 800 megabits per second. “5G is the backbone of this operation. It allows uninterrupted communication with all Fjord1 operational systems on the ferries in real time, even under challenging fjord conditions,” says Tom Erik Nilsen, Sales Director at Telia. SLAM-based tecnologies advancing with standalone 5G According to Espen Frydenlund, Business Developer at Telia Norway, Norwegian autonomy environments have already demonstrated how far multi-sensor navigation and SLAM-based technologies have advanced. Simultaneous Localization and Mapping - SLAM is a method used in robotics and autonomous navigation where a vessel, vehicle, or robot simultaneously builds a map of its surroundings and calculates its own position within that map, without relying on GPS. ZeaFalcon Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) from Zeabuz. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Zeabuz develops solutions for autonomous and remotely supervised operations, where ships can “see”, understand and navigate their environment independently. “Zeabuz has already shown how far Norwegian autonomy expertise has progressed, with advanced multi-sensor systems and SLAM-based navigation that allow vessels to operate safely even without GPS. This type of local autonomy provides impressive onboard robustness,” says Frydenlund. Zeabuz delivers intelligent navigation, autonomy and remote control solutions for vessels. Frydenlund emphasizes that scaling such solutions from pilots to commercial operations requires more than onboard intelligence alone. “To scale these solutions to commercial deployment, you need a communications infrastructure that delivers predictability, low latency, and high availability. This is where 5G Standalone becomes decisive.” Øyvind Smogeli demonstrating Zeabuz Remote Operations Centre (ROC) in Nyhavna, Trondheim. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Se also: Zeabuz delivers autonomy solution to Swedish zero-emission ferry 5G Standalone is a full 5G network architecture with a dedicated core network that delivers lower latency, more stable performance, and the ability to allocate dedicated network resources, essential for real-time control and autonomous operations. With 5G Standalone (SA), dedicated network resources and network slicing can be used to separate critical vessel traffic from other mobile network usage. “With dedicated network resources and network slicing, autonomous vessels can share sensor data, video, and navigation information with shore-based control centers in near real time, without critical functions being affected by other traffic in the mobile network,” Frydenlund explains. Alexey Gusev, NTNU Shore Control Lab and Espen Frydenlund during Frostabåten test-sailing. Photo: Telia See also: Zeabuz expands into defense and security with new dual-use autonomy platform Test sailings with Frostabåten As another example of how 5G enables advanced maritime operations, Frostabåten has conducted test sailings with an electric hydrofoil on the Trondheimsfjord. The tests explore how semi-autonomous features and new transport concepts can be developed for short fjord routes using energy-efficient, zero-emission vessels. Frostabåten uses a Candela P‑12 hydrofoil, which lifts the hull out of the water to reduce resistance and energy consumption, and can travel between Frosta and Trondheim in about 25 minutes. Frostabåten - Candela-P12 electric hydrofoil. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri During the tests, NTNU Shore Control Lab demonstrated how passenger vessels can be monitored from shore using 5G connectivity. The solution allows high-quality video streaming directly from the vessel to a control room, providing enhanced situational awareness and a basis for further development of remote monitoring and operational support. Ole Andreas Alsos, head of Shore Control Lab, said: “We used the 5G network to transmit high-quality video images with extremely low latency from Frostabåten to a control room at Shore Control Lab. This allowed us to monitor the test operation from shore.” Frydenlund also highlights Frostabåten and NTNU’s AutoTeaming project as a full-scale research platform for human–machine interaction and autonomous vessel operations under real conditions. Autoteaming is a research and development project led by NTNU that develops and tests solutions for effective teamwork between humans and autonomous vessels. The project builds technologies, methods, and control-center concepts that enable operators to supervise, support, and collaborate with autonomous systems in real time, with a strong focus on safety, decision support, and human–machine interaction in real operational environments. “Through Frostabåten and the AutoTeaming project, researchers can test situational awareness, decision support, and remote operations in real environments. The vessel depends on stable high-speed connectivity to transfer and analyze large volumes of data in real time,” he says. The practical experience from Frostabåten shows how 5G not only supports autonomous functions, but also provides a technological foundation for real-time monitoring and control under realistic operational conditions. “Taken together, Zeabuz and Frostabåten show that Norway is at the forefront of maritime autonomy, and that 5G Standalone is a prerequisite for moving the technology from research environments into regular, safe, and scalable operations,” Frydenlund says. See also: Frostabåten – Successful test sailing of electric hydrofoil in Trondheimsfjorden Ole Andreas Alsos, NTNU Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri About the actors Fjord1 is enhancing service on the Lavik–Opedal route with four new autonomous, electric ferries in operation. Frostabåten is an electric hydrofoil ferry currently undergoing test sailings on the Trondheim Fjord, designed for energy-efficient, high-speed travel and serving as a testbed for autonomous maritime operations. Norwegian Electric Systems develops autonomous control systems and communication solutions for vessels in demanding environments. NTNU Shore Control Lab offers testing and research facilities for autonomous ships, including simulation and land-based remote control systems. SentiSystems develops sensor fusion that ensures seamless handling of local and global navigation, even in situations where GNSS signals are missing. Telia provides high-speed networks and 5G solutions that enable real-time data transmission for autonomous operations. Testination is a test arena for autonomous maritime operations in the Trondheim Fjord and is operated by Ocean Autonomy Cluster. Zeabuz delivers intelligent navigation, autonomy and remote control solutions for vessels. SentiSystems and Zeabuz are members of Ocean Autonomy Cluster and NORDSEC Nordic Defence and Security Cluster, and both companies are incubator ventures in FI Ocean Space Incubator. The Frostabåten project is led by FI Ocean Space Incubator, bringing together industry and research partners to test and mature new autonomous maritime solutions. NTNU Shore Control Lab is a key collaboration partner for Ocean Autonomy Cluster and Testination, and also serves as a central partner in the MIDAS – Humans in Future Maritime Operations project. Se also: Frostabåten: A real-world testbed for the future of autonomous maritime travel Frostobåten Test sailing in Trondheimsfjorden. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "08/04/2026", "datePublished" : "08/04/2026", "headline" : "The critical role of 5G in future of autonomous maritime transport", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/gloppefjord.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/5g-enables-the-worlds-first-autonomous-ferry-route", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Les saken på norsk Trondheim continues to strengthen its position as a hub for ocean technology innovation, as industry professionals gathered for a new Design for Manufacturing (DFM) breakfast meeting hosted in collaboration with Ocean Autonomy Cluster, Inventas, and FI Ocean Space Incubator. Mads Martinussen, Inventas. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Bridging design and production The event is part of an ongoing series highlighting real-world industrial experiences and best practices in developing products that are not only innovative—but also manufacturable. Through short presentations and open dialogue, participants explored how design decisions, sourcing strategies, and production planning directly impact cost, quality, and development timelines in electronics. A key theme throughout the session was the importance of integrating manufacturing considerations early in the design phase. Done right, Design for Manufacturing enables companies to reduce risk, save time, and ensure that products can be produced at scale with predictable quality and cost. Vidar Hansen, Inventas. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Insights from across the value chain Vidar Hansen from Inventas shared how early-stage design choices can significantly reduce complexity and cost during industrialization. Hans-Marius Øverås and Fredrik Lilleøkdal from Ocean Access then provided insights from the development of the company’s first operational autonomous communication buoy, including how the team balanced rapid development with the need for long-term robustness in a system designed to operate autonomously for up to six months in harsh marine environments. Fredrik Lilleøkdal, Ocean Access. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Svein Ivar Bjørnås from Inission concluded the session by presenting the manufacturer’s perspective, emphasizing when and how production environments should be involved in development processes and what needs to be clarified before it is too late to make changes. Svein Ivar Bjørnås, Inission. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Strong participation from Rørvik Ocean Autonomy Cluster co-opened the event together with the co-organisers, underlining the importance of collaboration between developers, manufacturers, and end users in accelerating innovation. It was particularly encouraging to see strong participation from member companies based in Rørvik. Among those attending were Naustet, Innovarena, Emilsen Sjøservice, Navy Rørvik, and Mekon, highlighting the growing engagement and competence emerging from this important coastal cluster. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri A framework for scalable innovation As product development cycles accelerate and performance requirements increase, Design for Manufacturing is becoming a critical framework for companies aiming to bring robust, scalable solutions to market. The DFM breakfast series will continue to serve as a platform for sharing hands-on experience and strengthening collaboration across the ocean technology ecosystem. More pictures from breakfast meeting at Inventas Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "24/03/2026", "datePublished" : "24/03/2026", "headline" : "Design for Manufacturing in electronics: Lessons shared at breakfast meeting", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Design%20for%20manufacturing%20-%20Foto%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Fremtidens%20Industri%20%2828%29.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/design-for-manufacturing-in-electronics-lessons-shared-at-the-breakfast-meeting", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Trondheim is taking another step to reinforce its position as a leading technology city within ocean technology. Testination has now entered into a partnership with Nyhavna Utvikling through the company Dora 2 AS, aiming to improve access to testing and development infrastructure in the city. Testination is an initiative that connects companies with testing facilities and competence environments. It is part of the Norwegian Catapult programme for autonomy and control rooms, and is designed to make it easier to develop, test, and verify new ocean technologies. The collaboration is focused on the development of Nyhavna, an industrial and port area currently being transformed into a new urban district combining industry, technology, and urban development. From seabed to space The technologies and solutions that can be developed and tested span a wide range—from seabed and subsea systems and maritime technology to autonomous solutions, sensors, and control systems. These may also have applications in other demanding environments, including space-related and high-tech use cases. At the core of the collaboration are the facilities in and around Dora 2 at Nyhavna. The robust German bunker structures from World War II represent a unique infrastructure in a national context and will now be used even more extensively for technology testing and development—both in controlled and sheltered environments such as pools and docks, as well as in a harsh harbour basin and a deep fjord with varied weather conditions. Frode Halvorsen, Testination, Erik Erlien and Ragnar Eggen, Nyhavna Utvikling. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Through its ownership in Dora 2 AS, Nyhavna Utvikling will play a central role in how the facilities are further developed and utilized by existing and new companies and research environments. – This partnership is about bringing together and strengthening the innovation ecosystem for ocean technology in Trondheim. By more closely linking infrastructure, real estate, and technological expertise, we are creating better conditions for innovation and value creation, says Erik Erlien, Managing Director of Nyhavna Utvikling AS. – Access to relevant testing facilities is often crucial for companies to succeed in development and scaling. This collaboration helps strengthen Trondheim as an attractive arena for ocean technology and solutions for demanding environments, says Frode Halvorsen, Head of Testination and Ocean Autonomy Cluster. The partners believe the collaboration will lead to increased activity, more development projects, and stronger international appeal for Trondheim as a technology hub. – The ambition is to make it easier for both established players and new companies to test and further develop solutions here in Trondheim, Halvorsen adds.", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "23/03/2026", "datePublished" : "23/03/2026", "headline" : "New partnership to strengthen Trondheim as a test arena for ocean technology", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Ragnar%20Eggen%20Frode%20Halvorsen%20og%20Erik%20Erlin%20-%20Foto%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Fremtidens%20Industri%20%283%29-1.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/new-partnership-to-strengthen-trondheim-as-a-test-arena-for-ocean-technology", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ```