--- title: News | Autonomy description: Autonomy | --- [![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/) - [ROC - Remote Operation Centres for next-generation maritime autonomy](https://oceanautonomy.no/project_roc-remote-operation-centres-for-next-generation-maritime-autonomy?hsLang=en-us) - [Strategisk forum Nyhavna](https://oceanautonomy.no/no-no/project-strategisk-forum-nyhavna?hsLang=en-us) - [Testination](https://testination.io/) - [XLRTR - Accelerate Dual-Use Technology for Multi-domain Operations](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/xlrtr?hsLang=en-us) - Completed projects - [AGATI - Adriatic Green Autonomous Transport Initiative](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_agati?hsLang=en-us) - [DIGIFJORD](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_digifjord?hsLang=en-us) - [FAST - Flexible Autonomous Smart Transport](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_fast?hsLang=en-us) - [FLEX FERRY](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_flexferry?hsLang=en-us) - [MATIN - The Croatia – Norway Marine Technology Innovation network](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_matin?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/) - [ROC - Remote Operation Centres for next-generation maritime autonomy](https://oceanautonomy.no/project_roc-remote-operation-centres-for-next-generation-maritime-autonomy?hsLang=en-us) - [Strategisk forum Nyhavna](https://oceanautonomy.no/no-no/project-strategisk-forum-nyhavna?hsLang=en-us) - [Testination](https://testination.io/) - [XLRTR - Accelerate Dual-Use Technology for Multi-domain Operations](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/xlrtr?hsLang=en-us) - Completed projects - [AGATI - Adriatic Green Autonomous Transport Initiative](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_agati?hsLang=en-us) - [DIGIFJORD](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_digifjord?hsLang=en-us) - [FAST - Flexible Autonomous Smart Transport](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_fast?hsLang=en-us) - [FLEX FERRY](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_flexferry?hsLang=en-us) - [MATIN - The Croatia – Norway Marine Technology Innovation network](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_matin?hsLang=en-us) [Get in touch](https://26558673.hs-sites-eu1.com/contactus?hsLang=en-us) Posts about # Autonomy ## [As Machines Become Smarter, Humans Become More Important](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/as-machines-become-smarter-humans-become-more-important) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Sep 15, 2026, 3:52:17 PM **What can Norwegian research on autonomy and human-machine interaction teach the defence sector?** [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/as-machines-become-smarter-humans-become-more-important) ## [Marinor NTNU brings next generation of maritime autonomy innovators into Ocean Autonomy Cluster](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/marinor-ntnu-brings-next-generation-of-maritime-autonomy-innovators-into-ocean-autonomy-cluster) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Jul 8, 2026, 10:24:14 PM Ocean Autonomy Cluster is pleased to welcome Marinor NTNU as a new member of the cluster.Marinor... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/marinor-ntnu-brings-next-generation-of-maritime-autonomy-innovators-into-ocean-autonomy-cluster) ## [Uncrewed maritime operations accelerating rapidly across Norwegian ocean technology sector](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/uncrewed-maritime-operations-accelerating-rapidly-across-norwegian-ocean-technology-sector) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | May 30, 2026, 7:19:07 PM [**Les saken på norsk**](https://www.maritimt-forum.no/aktuelt/norske-selskaper-driver-frem-neste-generasjon-ubemannede-og-autonome-maritime-operasjoner) **The development of autonomous and remote maritime operations is accelerating...** [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/uncrewed-maritime-operations-accelerating-rapidly-across-norwegian-ocean-technology-sector) ## [Squarehead and Reach Remote launch acoustic pilot onboard autonomous vessel](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/squarehead-and-reach-remote-launch-acoustic-pilot-onboard-autonomous-vessel) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | May 7, 2026, 4:23:41 PM [Squarehead Technology](https://www.sqhead.com/) has entered into an Early Adopter Pilot agreement with Reach Subsea to test... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/squarehead-and-reach-remote-launch-acoustic-pilot-onboard-autonomous-vessel) ## [Keeping autonomy STABLE at sea](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/keeping-autonomy-stable-at-sea) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Apr 27, 2026, 2:43:24 PM STABLE AS joins Ocean Autonomy Cluster to strengthen autonomous maritime operations with advanced... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/keeping-autonomy-stable-at-sea) ## [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) ## [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) ## [Norwegian–German exchange highlights opportunities in maritime autonomy](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/german-norwegian-dialogue-on-autonomous-maritime-systems) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | May 13, 2025, 4:42:57 PM [Les saken på norsk](https://www.nordsec-cluster.no/aktuelt/tysk-norsk-samarbeid-om-autonome-maritime-systemer) What can Germany and Norway learn from each other in the rapidly evolving field... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/german-norwegian-dialogue-on-autonomous-maritime-systems) ## 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) ##### 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" : "What can Norwegian research on autonomy and human-machine interaction teach the defence sector? Artificial intelligence and autonomous systems are changing the way modern military operations are planned and conducted. The war in Ukraine has demonstrated how rapidly unmanned aerial systems, maritime drones, advanced sensors and AI-supported decision-making tools have become integrated into military operations. At the same time, NATO countries are investing heavily in new capabilities based on artificial intelligence and autonomy. These technologies offer the potential for faster decision-making, improved situational awareness and more precise use of military capabilities. But they also raise a fundamental question: As machines become increasingly intelligent, how do we ensure that humans retain meaningful control? “In complex systems, control is not something we assume, it is something we must actively design.” — Stig Ole Johnsen, NTNU This question is at the heart of the Norwegian research project MIDAS – Humans in Future Ocean Space Operations, and of the book Safety by Design: Human-Centered Approaches to AI, Automation, and Remote Operations. Edited by Frøy Birte Bjørneseth, Stig Ole Johnsen, Ole Andreas Alsos, Vidar Hepsø and Gunhild Birgitte Sætren, the book brings together research and practical experience on human-centred approaches to AI, automation and remote operations across safety-critical sectors. [1] The article draws on research, findings and practical experience from the Norwegian MIDAS project and Safety by Design: Human-Centered Approaches to AI, Automation, and Remote Operations, with particular emphasis on the implications for defence. Key themes include meaningful human control, human factors, system design and the interaction between people, technology and organisation. Although MIDAS is rooted in ocean operations, the book draws on experience from several safety-critical sectors. Many of the challenges are therefore equally relevant to defence Scale model of a Remote Operation Centre (ROC), from a master's thesis in autonomy at NTNU Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset. Autonomy is not about removing humans One of the most important lessons from research into autonomous and remotely operated systems is that autonomy should not be understood as a way of removing humans from the system. Stig Ole Johnsen's research specifically addresses how Meaningful Human Control can be engineered into digitalisation, automation, AI and remote operations. His work emphasises that human control needs to be deliberately incorporated into the design of complex systems rather than simply assumed to exist because a human remains formally responsible. “Autonomous and remotely operated maritime systems will not become safe simply by removing people from the bridge or the control loop. They become safer when we understand the work operators actually have to perform, design the technology around that work, and ensure that people can build situation awareness and intervene when conditions change.” — Stig Ole Johnsen, NTNU This is closely connected to the concept of Meaningful Human Control. Simply having a human formally “in the loop” does not necessarily mean that the human has effective control. The operator must have sufficient understanding of what the system is doing, access to relevant and timely information, the authority to make decisions and the ability to intervene when necessary. NATO's work on Human Systems Integration for Meaningful Human Control over AI-based systems addresses these issues at the system level. [2] This has important implications for defence procurement. Human Factors Engineering, task analysis, user involvement, prototyping, simulation and continuous learning cannot be treated as activities that are added after the technology has been developed. They need to be incorporated from the beginning. Testing autonomous technology on the electric hydrofoil Candela P-12, known as Frostabåten, in Trondheim. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset. The lesson from KNM Helge Ingstad The collision involving the frigate KNM Helge Ingstad in 2018 provides a powerful Norwegian example of why technology, people and organisation must be understood as one system. Research by Ole Andreas Alsos, Stig Ole Johnsen and Frøy Birte Bjørneseth addresses human, technical and organisational factors in accident analysis and safety-critical systems. Their work is part of the broader research presented in Safety by Design. For Bjørneseth, the lesson from accident investigations is clear: “When we investigate serious incidents, we often see that attention is focused on the person who made a mistake. But humans always operate within a system. If the system is poorly designed, the likelihood of errors increases.” — Frøy Birte Bjørneseth, NTNU Bjørneseth's research focuses on Human Factors, human-machine interfaces, ergonomics, user experience, operational management and safety in autonomous and maritime systems. The broader lesson is consistent with the central argument of Safety by Design: in safety-critical systems, human performance cannot be separated from the technical and organisational context in which people operate. [1] For autonomous military systems, this interaction becomes even more important. A technically sophisticated system can still fail to deliver its intended operational effect if information is difficult to interpret, interfaces are poorly designed, responsibilities are unclear or operators cannot intervene effectively. KNM Helge Ingstad. Photo: Jakob Østheim/Forsvaret. Ukraine shows why humans still matter The war in Ukraine provides an extraordinary real-world laboratory for the development and deployment of autonomous and semi-autonomous technologies. Drones, sensors, satellite data and AI-supported analysis are being integrated into military operations at unprecedented speed. But the experience from Ukraine also demonstrates that technology alone does not determine military effectiveness. Humans remain responsible for understanding the operational context, assessing uncertainty and making decisions involving tactical, legal and ethical considerations. The physical distance between an operator and the battlefield may increase, while the cognitive demands on the operator can become greater. The same principle applies to autonomous maritime operations: the more responsibility is delegated to a system, the more important it becomes to understand what the system can and cannot be expected to do Demonstration of Ukrainian drone technology in Trøndelag. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset. The technology may not be the hardest part There is a tendency to view AI adoption primarily as a technology challenge. Research suggests that this can be misleading. The MIT NANDA report The GenAI Divide: State of AI in Business 2025 examined the gap between experimentation with generative AI and measurable organisational value, highlighting challenges related to implementation, workflow integration and organisational adaptation. [3] For defence, the consequences of poor integration can be particularly serious. The issue is not simply whether an AI system works technically, but whether it works in the operational environment in which it is intended to be used. This is where the Human Factors perspective becomes particularly important. Bjørneseth's research covers Human Factors, human-machine interaction, usability, ergonomics, operational environments and safety in autonomous systems. [1] AI adoption should therefore begin with the mission and the tasks that people need to perform. What decisions have to be made? What information is required? Where is uncertainty greatest? What happens when communication fails? What happens when information is incomplete, misleading or deliberately manipulated? These questions are as important as the technical performance of the AI model itself. NASAMS: designing around the operator A Norwegian example can be found in the development of the next-generation Fire Distribution Centre for the Norwegian Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System, NASAMS. The system has been developed around the tasks operators need to perform under extreme time pressure. User involvement, observation, task analysis, prototyping and testing have been important elements of the development process. The result illustrates a fundamental principle of human-centred design: advanced technology does not necessarily have to mean greater complexity for the user. This approach is consistent with the principles of human-centred design described in ISO 9241-210:2019, which provides requirements and recommendations for human-centred design principles and activities throughout the life cycle of interactive systems. [4] Norwegian Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System, NASAMS. Photo: Ole Andreas Vekve/Forsvaret. A Norwegian opportunity Norway has several advantages in this field. The country combines a strong defence industry with substantial research expertise in autonomy, Human Factors and human-machine interaction, as well as decades of experience with safety-critical maritime operations. There are also relatively short distances between users, industry, research institutions and government. This creates an opportunity to develop and test new approaches in close cooperation with the people who will ultimately use the technology. User involvement should extend from the definition of the problem through prototyping, exercises, acquisition and implementation – and continue as an integral part of operational learning. This is consistent with both the human-centred design principles of ISO 9241-210 and NATO's approach to Meaningful Human Control across the system lifecycle. [2][4] The war in Ukraine reinforces the value of this approach. Technologies are developed, deployed, tested and modified at extraordinary speed. The ability to establish short learning loops between operational experience, users, researchers and industry can therefore become a strategic advantage. Nyhavna in Trondheim seen from a Ukrainian FPV drone. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset. Humans remain the critical capability The central message from MIDAS and Safety by Design is not that autonomy should be slowed down. Quite the opposite. Autonomous and AI-based systems will become increasingly important in both civilian and military operations. [1] The question is how these systems are designed and integrated. Testing should not be limited to whether a system performs correctly under ideal conditions. Systems must also be tested under time pressure, degraded communications, incorrect or uncertain information, cyber disruption and other hostile or degraded conditions. NATO's work on Meaningful Human Control addresses human-system integration across the lifecycle, including design, testing, training and operational use. [2] ISO 9241-210:2019 provides an established framework for human-centred design, emphasising an understanding of users, tasks and environments throughout the development process. [4] For defence, this approach is particularly important because failure can have consequences far beyond inconvenience or lost productivity. It can affect operational effectiveness, situational awareness, safety and accountability. The most advanced system is therefore not necessarily the one with the highest degree of autonomy. Instead, the critical question is whether the system enables people to understand what is happening, make appropriate decisions and intervene when necessary. This is the essence of Meaningful Human Control – and it is why the human role does not disappear as autonomous systems become more capable. Johnsen's research specifically addresses how Meaningful Human Control can be engineered into digitalisation, automation, AI and remote operations. The challenge for the defence sector is therefore to combine technological development with human competence, organisational development and continuous user involvement. When machines become smarter, the human role does not disappear. It changes – and in many cases becomes more demanding. Parts of the autonomy research in the MIDAS project are conducted at NTNU Shore Control Lab in Trondheim. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset. About the book Safety by Design: Human-Centered Approaches to AI, Automation, and Remote Operations is edited by Frøy Birte Bjørneseth, Stig Ole Johnsen, Ole Andreas Alsos, Vidar Hepsø and Gunhild Birgitte Sætren. The book was published by CRC Press in 2026 as an Open Access publication. The book brings together research and practical experience on human-centred approaches to AI, automation and remote operations across several safety-critical sectors. Its central themes include Human Factors, human-centred design, automation, AI, remote operations and Meaningful Human Control. References Bjørneseth, Frøy Birte; Johnsen, Stig Ole; Alsos, Ole Andreas; Hepsø, Vidar; Sætren, Gunhild Birgitte (eds.) (2026). Safety by Design: Human-Centered Approaches to AI, Automation, and Remote Operations. CRC Press. DOI: 10.1201/9781003741824. NATO STO (2025). Human Systems Integration for Meaningful Human Control Over AI-Based Systems. NATO STO Technical Report TR-HFM-330. MIT NANDA (2025). The GenAI Divide: State of AI in Business 2025. ISO (2019). ISO 9241-210:2019 Ergonomics of human-system interaction — Part 210: Human-centred design for interactive systems.", "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" : "15/09/2026", "datePublished" : "15/09/2026", "headline" : "As Machines Become Smarter, Humans Become More Important", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Tysk-Norsk%20Handelskammer%20Foto%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Ocean%20Autonomy%20Cluster%20%2811%29-1.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/as-machines-become-smarter-humans-become-more-important", "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" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster is pleased to welcome Marinor NTNU as a new member of the cluster. Marinor NTNU is a student organisation at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) that provides students with practical experience in autonomous maritime systems through engineering projects and interdisciplinary collaboration. By combining technical development with industry engagement, the organisation helps prepare students for careers in one of Norway's fastest-growing technology sectors. Joining Ocean Autonomy Cluster is a natural step in strengthening those industry connections. – We look forward to becoming part of a community where companies, researchers and innovators work together to advance maritime autonomy. The cluster gives us an opportunity to build stronger relationships with the industry while allowing our members to gain valuable insight and experience, says Kasper Tufte Langland, primary contact for Marinor NTNU. The organisation sees the membership as a two-way partnership. While students gain access to an established innovation network, cluster members gain closer contact with emerging talent already working on autonomous maritime technologies. – We hope to contribute with enthusiastic students, new perspectives and future employees who have developed practical skills through our activities. Creating stronger links between students and industry benefits everyone involved, says Langland. Marinor NTNU's membership further strengthens Ocean Autonomy Cluster's ambition of connecting industry, research and education. By bringing student-driven innovation into the network, the cluster expands opportunities for collaboration while helping ensure a strong pipeline of expertise for the future of autonomous ocean technology. Photo: Marinor NTNU", "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" : "08/07/2026", "datePublished" : "08/07/2026", "headline" : "Marinor NTNU brings next generation of maritime autonomy innovators into Ocean Autonomy Cluster", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Marinor%20NTNU%20%281%29.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/marinor-ntnu-brings-next-generation-of-maritime-autonomy-innovators-into-ocean-autonomy-cluster", "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 The development of autonomous and remote maritime operations is accelerating rapidly across the Norwegian ocean technology sector. In recent months, several companies have demonstrated how uncrewed vessels, remote operations, and new sensor systems are moving from pilot projects into regular operations in demanding offshore environments. A clear example comes from Nordic USV, which recently upgraded its USV Kuling after more than 6,000 nautical miles of operations. The vessel has operated fully uncrewed, without a chase boat, and has been controlled directly from an operations centre in Bergen. In total, the company has completed around 10,000 nautical miles of uncrewed operations in 2026. A new 6 kW generator is intended to increase cruising speed, improve operational reliability in harsh weather conditions, and extend maintenance intervals by 50 percent. USV Kuling under maintenance and upgrade after more than 6,000 nautical miles of autonomous operations. Photo: Nordic USV. “Nordic USV is well underway in establishing uncrewed infrastructure along the Norwegian coast. We currently operate three USVs and six unmanned docking and charging stations, covering both the Helgeland coast and the entire stretch from Måløy to the inner Oslofjord,” says Sander Henriksen, CEO & Founder of Nordic USV. “The vessels operate year-round, delivering water sampling and monitoring services for the aquaculture industry, public authorities, as well as monitoring emissions from wastewater, industrial activity, and mining operations,” he says. Sander Henriksen, CEO & Founder of Nordic USV. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Autonomous voyage from Trondheim to Kårstø Another example is Maritime Robotics and its uncrewed vessel Mariner X, which recently completed an autonomous voyage of more than 500 nautical miles from Trondheim to Kårstø. The nine-metre USV spent nearly one week along the Norwegian coast—operated entirely without crew on board, but under continuous monitoring and control from shore. The operation was carried out in cooperation with Equinor and is described as one of the most extensive autonomous test operations conducted in Norway to date. The vessel is designed for long-endurance operations in challenging coastal and offshore environments and is equipped with advanced sensors and navigation systems for data collection, testing, and operational missions under real-world conditions. Mariner X. Photo: Maritime Robotics The project is not only about autonomous navigation, but about how offshore operations can be conducted with reduced risk, lower manning levels, and improved energy efficiency. Through the voyage, the partners are investigating how uncrewed systems can be scaled from individual demonstrations to routine offshore operations on the Norwegian continental shelf. “We have already tested and operationalised uncrewed vessels in real operations, but the Mariner X gives us an opportunity to push the boundaries of autonomy in a controlled, yet realistic environment. The goal is to understand how these technologies perform in day-to-day offshore operations and what it takes to move from promising trials to scalable solutions,” says Arne Gürtner, Senior Vice President – Technology, Digital and Innovation at Equinor. Arne Gürtner, Senior Vice President – Technology, Digital and Innovation at Equinor. The Norwegian coastline itself provides a demanding test arena, with rapidly changing weather, waves, traffic, currents, and complex navigation conditions. That Mariner X completed the entire journey without serious incidents represents an important technological and operational milestone. “This is Norwegian-built technology that makes complex and hazardous offshore operations safer, more efficient and significantly more environmentally friendly,” says Eirik Hovstein of Maritime Robotics. Eirik Hovstein, Maritime Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Maritime Robotics has developed uncrewed and remotely operated systems in Trondheim for more than 15 years and already has more than 200 vessels in active operations globally across defence, research, offshore, and ocean industries. See also: Uncrewed vessel completes 500-nautical-mile autonomous voyage along the Norwegian coast Remote seabed mapping in the North Sea At the same time, Fugro has deployed its new USV Blue Eclipse 1 in Norway. The vessel will carry out major parts of the MAREANO seabed mapping programme in the North Sea, remotely operated from the company’s control centre in Aberdeen. The operation marks an important milestone for large-scale uncrewed offshore operations and demonstrates how autonomous vessels are increasingly used in demanding commercial missions in the North Sea. Fugro's 18-metre USV Blue Eclipse 1. Photo: Fugro Se also: Fugro launches Blue Eclipse USV in Norway – set for North Sea mission New sensors and monitoring technology In the area of sensing and situational awareness, new technologies are also being tested directly on board autonomous vessels. Squarehead Technology has partnered with Reach Subsea to install advanced acoustic monitoring systems on the uncrewed vessel Reach Remote 1. The solution enables remote operators to monitor the vessel’s machinery space from shore through AI-based analysis of sound patterns and anomalies. The system is integrated with Massterly’s Remote Operations Centre in Horten. Reach Remote 1. Illustration: Reach Subsea See also: Squarehead and Reach Remote launch acoustic pilot onboard autonomous vessel Squarehead Technology has also demonstrated how advanced acoustic sensing can improve maritime situational awareness through its “super hearing” technology for ships. The system uses arrays of microphones and AI-powered sound analysis to detect and classify surrounding vessels and activities beyond normal human hearing capabilities, providing operators with additional situational awareness in demanding maritime environments. The technology is currently being tested onboard Fjord1’s ferry MF Skopphorn and will also be implemented on the new ferries operating the Lavik–Oppedal connection on Norway’s west coast. The project is part of the broader development toward highly automated and eventually autonomous ferry operations, where new sensor systems are needed to strengthen both onboard and shore-based situational awareness. Bridge on Fjord1 ferry, MF Skopphorn. Photo: Squarehead See also: Squarehead brings “superhearing” to ships Autonomous ferry operations enabled by 5G Norway has also become a testing ground for autonomous ferry operations. The Lavik–Oppedal ferry connection has been used to demonstrate how 5G technology can support autonomous vessel functions, remote monitoring, and real-time data transfer in live ferry operations. The project involved several Norwegian technology actors, including Senti Systems, contributing to communication and enabling technologies supporting autonomous maritime operations. The project demonstrated how next-generation connectivity infrastructure can become a key enabler for future autonomous maritime transport systems, particularly in coastal operations where reliable low-latency communication is critical. Photo: Fjord1 See also: The critical role of 5G in future of autonomous maritime transport Norwegian autonomy technology is also increasingly being deployed internationally. Zeabuz recently delivered autonomy solutions for the Swedish zero-emission ferry Neptunus, where autonomous transit systems, remote monitoring, and advanced navigation technology will support safer, more energy-efficient, and more predictable ferry operations on one of Sweden’s busiest ferry routes. See also: Zeabuz delivers autonomy solution to Swedish zero-emission ferry MIDAS and Shore Control Lab MIDAS (Human in Future Ocean Space Operations) is a six-year research and capacity-building initiative focused on how humans interact with autonomous maritime systems in future ocean operations. The programme explores how increasing autonomy changes maritime work, with particular emphasis on decision support, situational awareness, and the design of safe and effective shore-based control environments. “The ongoing projects are highly relevant to MIDAS because they represent the transition the initiative was established to support, the move from isolated technology development to operational systems where human interactions, autonomous vessels, and shore-based control centres are better integrated,” says Alexandra Neyts, project manager for MIDAS. “MIDAS is all about building strong bridges between academia and industry, connecting research with real-world applications to drive innovation in autonomous marine operations. The developments, pilot projects, and start-ups emerging from this approach clearly demonstrate how it is giving Norway a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving maritime sector, she says. Alexandra Neyts, project manager for MIDAS - Human in Future Ocean Space Operations. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Professor Ole Andreas Alsos, Head of NTNU Shore Control Lab, says the rapid development of uncrewed maritime operations is closely aligned with the research environment’s focus areas. “Uncrewed maritime operations are highly relevant to the Shore Control Lab because they bring together the core questions we work with every day: how to design safe, understandable and effective systems for remote and supervisory control at sea,” says Alsos. “Through the Shore Control Lab and the MIDAS project, we can contribute with human-centred design methods, operational test facilities and research-based knowledge about how operators, autonomy and maritime infrastructure should work together. At the same time, real-world developments in uncrewed operations give us essential cases, requirements and data that strengthen our research, education and innovation activities.” Ole Andreas Alsos, professor and Head of NTNU Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri The Shore Control Lab is an experimental and research environment used to study and test concepts for remote ship operations and shore-based control centres, including operator interaction, interface design, and human performance in autonomous maritime systems. From demonstrations to operational reality The development shows how Norwegian actors are building complete ecosystems for maritime autonomy, where vessels, sensors, remote operations centres, and digital services are integrated into new operational models. A wide range of companies and collaboration partners connected to Ocean Autonomy Cluster, FI Ocean Space Incubator, and Maritimt Forum Midt-Norge are involved in this development, contributing expertise across autonomous vessels, sensors, connectivity, control systems, software, offshore operations, and maritime infrastructure. “New technological solutions, expertise, and test arenas are necessary for Norway to remain the world-leading maritime cluster. It is extremely exciting to follow the ocean technology environment that has now really gained momentum in Trondheim, and which will have a major impact on the maritime industry going forward. Therefore, Maritimt Forum works to ensure that conditions are in place for continued development of both technology and expertise through good framework conditions and collaboration across sectors,” says Ellen Weidemann, head of Maritimt Forum Midt-Norge. Ellen Weidemann, head of Maritimt Forum Midt-Norge. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri For Ocean Autonomy Cluster, this illustrates how the sector is rapidly moving from technology development to commercial operations. It is no longer only about demonstrations and testing, but about real-world operations in the North Sea and along the Norwegian coastline, conducted entirely without crew on board.", "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" : "30/05/2026", "datePublished" : "30/05/2026", "headline" : "Uncrewed maritime operations accelerating rapidly across Norwegian ocean technology sector", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Maritime%20Robotics.jpeg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/uncrewed-maritime-operations-accelerating-rapidly-across-norwegian-ocean-technology-sector", "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" : "Squarehead Technology has entered into an Early Adopter Pilot agreement with Reach Subsea to test advanced acoustic monitoring technology onboard Reach Remote 1, an uncrewed surface vessel developed for remotely operated offshore missions such as subsea inspection, survey and intervention. The pilot will explore how directional sound sensing can improve condition monitoring and anomaly detection in one of the most challenging onboard environments: the engine room. The collaboration also includes close integration with Massterly’s Remote Operations Center (ROC) in Horten. The initiative is also part of a broader development trajectory within the Ocean Autonomy ecosystem in Norway, where sensor fusion, remote operations and autonomy technologies are increasingly converging to enable safer and more efficient offshore operations. Reach Remote 1. Illustration: Reach Subsea A new era of autonomous shipping Reach Remote 1 is one of the first uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) in the world approved for fully remote-controlled operations. Developed by Reach Subsea, the vessel is designed to execute offshore subsea operations without onboard crew, while being controlled and monitored from shore. The approval represents a significant step in the transition from pilot projects to operational autonomous shipping. Through Massterly’s ROC, operators on land monitor vessel performance, navigation and safety in real time, effectively replicating key bridge functions without a physical crew onboard. The vessel forms part of a wider operational model where autonomy is not only a technology layer, but a service framework combining remote control, digital infrastructure and advanced sensing systems. Stig Oluf Nyvold Managing Director of Squarehead Technology. Photo: Squarehead Technology See also: Squarehead brings “superhearing” to ships From military acoustics to maritime insight Squarehead Technology develops advanced acoustic sensor systems originally designed for defence and security applications, where directional sound detection and real-time analysis of complex acoustic environments are critical. The technology is now increasingly applied in maritime and industrial domains, including autonomous vessels and offshore operations. As part of the emerging Ocean Autonomy ecosystem, Squarehead contributes to next-generation situational awareness solutions where acoustic intelligence complements traditional sensor systems across autonomous operations. The company’s microphone array technology combines large-scale acoustic sensing with AI-based analysis, enabling precise localisation of sound sources and detection of anomalies in noisy environments such as machinery spaces and engine rooms. Peter A. Brønlund, Squarehead Technology In maritime autonomy applications, this capability is increasingly described as “superhearing”, enabling remote operators to regain auditory situational awareness from shore-based control centres. “Engine rooms are acoustically complex, but also rich in information. If we can detect subtle deviations in sound patterns, we can uncover issues that other sensors may not capture,” says Peter A. Brønlund, General Manager and Business Development Director, Industrial. Squarehead Technology’s Discovair, shown here in the field with a drone hovering overhead. Photo: Squarehead Technology Stepwise deployment onboard Reach Remote 1 The pilot will be rolled out step by step. A suitable sensor location has already been identified in the compact engine room onboard Reach Remote 1. During a port call in Kristiansund in early May, mounting brackets, power supply, and network cabling will be installed by vessel personnel. At a subsequent port call later in May, Squarehead Technology representatives will install the acoustic array and connect the system to the onboard network. Following installation, the system will enter a data acquisition phase, collecting baseline sound patterns over time before anomaly detection is activated. Once operational, acoustic events will be transmitted to Massterly’s ROC, where operators can listen to and verify anomalies as part of remote vessel operations. Reach Remote 1. Photo: Reach Subsea Developing the next layer of maritime sensing The ambition is to establish acoustic monitoring as a complementary layer to existing onboard sensor systems, particularly relevant in autonomous and remotely operated vessels where situational awareness must be maintained without crew onboard. “We see this as a development partnership,” says Brønlund. “Together with Reach Subsea and ROC operators, we are shaping how acoustic data is interpreted and used in real operations.” The partners are also considering documenting the project as an ongoing series, sharing insights, challenges and results as the system is tested in a live operational environment. If successful, the technology could enable detection of anomalies that conventional sensor systems miss, adding a new dimension to safety, efficiency, and predictive maintenance in autonomous maritime operations. About Squarehead Technology Squarehead is a Norwegian deep-tech company developing advanced acoustic sensor systems that transform sound into actionable situational awareness. Its proprietary microphone arrays, powered by beamforming and machine learning, enable precise detection, localization and classification of sound events in complex environments. Originally developed for defense and security applications, the technology is increasingly used in industrial and maritime settings. Squarehead is part of the growing Ocean Autonomy ecosystem in Norway, contributing acoustic sensing capabilities that support autonomous and remotely operated vessel operations. About Reach Subsea Reach Subsea is a Norwegian provider of subsea services, including inspection, survey and intervention operations. The company is developing next-generation uncrewed surface vessel capabilities through its Reach Remote program. Reach Remote 1 is designed for fully remote-controlled offshore operations, enabling subsea missions to be carried out without onboard crew, operated from shore via Massterly’s Remote Operations Center.", "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" : "07/05/2026", "datePublished" : "07/05/2026", "headline" : "Squarehead and Reach Remote launch acoustic pilot onboard autonomous vessel", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/RR1-reduced-scaled.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/squarehead-and-reach-remote-launch-acoustic-pilot-onboard-autonomous-vessel", "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" : "STABLE AS joins Ocean Autonomy Cluster to strengthen autonomous maritime operations with advanced motion-compensation technology that neutralizes roll and pitch onboard vessels. The company’s stabilization platforms enable safer, more precise USV and UAV missions in demanding sea states. Ocean Autonomy Cluster welcomes STABLE as a new member. The company develops and delivers tailor-made horizontal stabilization platforms for installation on boats and ships, compensating for vessel motion caused by waves. By creating a stable reference frame on a moving platform, STABLE enables more reliable and autonomous operations at sea. The technology is based on high-precision sensors and computer-controlled electric actuators that actively eliminate roll and pitch, providing a horizontal and acceleration-free platform even in rough conditions. “Our core mission is to remove the uncertainty caused by vessel motion. If you can trust the platform, you can trust the data, the communication link, and the autonomous operation,” says CSO & partner Rune Eriksen. STABLE Drone Platform Enabling accurate data and reliable communication STABLE’s systems are designed to support mission-critical maritime operations where precision and stability are essential. For data acquisition, the platform stabilizes radars and antennas to ensure accurate measurements and improved situational awareness. For communication, it maintains steady alignment of point-to-point (P2P) antennas, increasing reliability and bandwidth stability in demanding conditions. The company also highlights sensor fusion and safeguarding of combined USV and UAV activities as key areas of expertise.Rune Eriksen, CSO & partner, STABLE. Photo: Mona Hauglid With more than 20 years of experience in motion mitigation, filtering and sensor fusion, the company continuously tests and optimizes sensor configurations to achieve maximum stabilization accuracy across different use cases. “When you combine USVs and UAVs, stability becomes even more critical. Our technology helps safeguard these joint operations by ensuring predictable and controlled conditions for both sensing and deployment,” Eriksen explains. Supporting UAV operations at sea Launching and recovering UAVs from moving vessels remains a technical challenge in maritime autonomy. STABLE’s horizontal stabilization platform provides a controlled surface for safer takeoff and landing, even in moderate sea states. The company’s dedicated UAV platform increases the operational weather window for maritime drone missions, enabling takeoff and landing in conditions that would otherwise be too demanding. “Our platform increases safety and expands the operational envelope for drone operations at sea,” says Eriksen. STABLE Drone Hangar From offshore roots to advanced autonomy The stabilization technology has its roots in offshore applications and has been deployed across a wide range of maritime environments — from industrial vessels to cruise ships and yachts. In addition to industrial and autonomous applications, the technology has also been used in comfort-oriented installations such as stabilized beds and billiard tables onboard ships, demonstrating the flexibility and precision of the platform. Joining forces in the autonomy ecosystem By joining Ocean Autonomy Cluster, STABLE aims to strengthen its network within maritime autonomy, exchange knowledge, and participate in collaborative projects and events. “We see the cluster as a natural arena for sharing experience and learning from others working with autonomy at sea. At the same time, we can contribute with solid technical expertise from mitigating vessel motion and with feedback from systems already installed and tested in real operations,” says Eriksen. With STABLE on board, the cluster further reinforces its competence within enabling technologies for robust, scalable and mission-ready autonomous maritime operations.", "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" : "27/04/2026", "datePublished" : "27/04/2026", "headline" : "Keeping autonomy STABLE at sea", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/STABLE%20&%20GRIFF%20AVIATION_2.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/keeping-autonomy-stable-at-sea", "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" : "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 What can Germany and Norway learn from each other in the rapidly evolving field of maritime autonomy? That was the key question at the “Autonomous Maritime Systems” seminar held in Trondheim on May 13, co-hosted by Ocean Autonomy Cluster and the German-Norwegian Chamber of Commerce. The event brought together industry leaders, researchers and policymakers from both countries to explore synergies in digitalization, sustainability, and dual-use innovation. Governing Mayor of Trondheim Kristian Dahlberg Hauge. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Setting the stage for collaboration The program featured presentations from a wide range of contributors, including Governing Mayor of Trondheim Kristian Dahlberg Hauge, First Secretary Christian Siepmann from the German Embassy, and Regina Hermsdorf from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. Cluster Manager Frode Halvorsen introduced the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, while Katrin Caldwell of VDMA offered insights into digital trends shaping Germany’s marine industries. Roald Gulbrandsen from NHO discussed how Norwegian industry is adapting to geopolitical and technological shifts, and Ketil Aagesen of Siemens Energy shared examples of German companies succeeding in Norway. NTNU’s Bjørn Egil Asbjørnslett also highlighted maritime autonomy research and infrastructure. Regina Hermsdorf, German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Ten German companies pitch for partnerships Ten German companies presented their technology and aspirations for collaboration, including Addix, Anschütz, AP Sensing, In-innovative navigation, JEOL, Kaiko Systems, Konzept Informationssysteme, PEM Motion, TASW and Tesvolt Ocean. Their 3-minute pitches gave a snapshot of innovative tools and services across software, automation, and smart maritime systems. Frode Halvorsen, Ocean Autonomy Cluster. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset Roundtable reflections: regulation, security, and real-world constraints In the afternoon, participants gathered for moderated roundtable discussions to reflect on the day’s presentations and exchange ideas from their own operational contexts. Among the many topics discussed were the challenges of aligning different autonomous systems and the need for common standards across the industry. The conversations also touched on cybersecurity and physical threats, including how to protect against potential drone attacks and how to manage transitions between control centers using different standards and technologies. Several contributors raised concerns about data and computing limitations, emphasizing that autonomy must function reliably even when processing power and connectivity are constrained—something many research environments don’t account for. Others highlighted the role of automation in addressing workforce shortages, particularly in port logistics. Automating loading and unloading can enhance safety and compensate for the lack of available crane operators, especially in smaller ports. Katrin Caldwell, VDMA. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Shared waters, shared goals There was also strong interest in revitalizing inland and coastal transport through small autonomous vessels. These could offer more frequent departures, reduce traffic congestion, and provide more sustainable alternatives in urban transport. One example from Fredrikstad showed how ferry use increased from 250,000 to 3 million annual passengers when the ferry became free while the bridge was temporarily closed—highlighting a long-term shift in transport behavior. The roundtable discussions clearly reflected a shared ambition to strengthen cooperation between Germany and Norway. With both countries at the forefront of maritime innovation, the event underscored the potential for joint progress in building greener, safer, and more autonomous maritime systems. Bjørn Egil Asbjørnslett, director NTNU Ocean and Coast. 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