--- title: News | Drones description: Drones | --- [![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 # Drones ## [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) ## [Dark Drones: Future Drone Technology Demonstrated in Trondheim](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/dark-drones-future-drone-technology-demonstrated-in-trondheim) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Jan 24, 2026, 12:33:04 AM [Les saken på norsk](https://www.nordsec-cluster.no/aktuelt/fremtidens-droneteknologi-demonstrert-i-trondheim) [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/dark-drones-future-drone-technology-demonstrated-in-trondheim) ## [Ukrainian–Latvian drone company establishes operations in Trondheim](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/ukrainian-latvian-drone-company-establishes-operations-in-trondheim) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Jan 23, 2026, 10:04:25 PM [Les saken på norsk](https://www.nordsec-cluster.no/aktuelt/ukrainsk-latvisk-droneselskap-etablerer-seg-i-trondheim) [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/ukrainian-latvian-drone-company-establishes-operations-in-trondheim) ## [From Search and Rescue to Hybrid Threats: Drone seminar – NTNU Civil Security](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/from-search-and-rescue-to-hybrid-threats-drone-seminar-ntnu-social-security) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Jan 8, 2026, 10:51:19 PM [Les saken på norsk](https://www.nordsec-cluster.no/aktuelt/fra-søk-og-redning-til-hybride-trusler-fagdag-droner-ntnu-samfunnssikkerhet) Drones have become a central tool for operations ranging from emergency response... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/from-search-and-rescue-to-hybrid-threats-drone-seminar-ntnu-social-security) ## [The Pamela drone helps NINA track invasive species](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/the-pamela-drone-helps-nina-track-invasive-species) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Jun 26, 2025, 3:01:35 PM **[Les saken på norsk](https://fi-nor.no/dronen-pamela-hjelper-nina-med-a-spore-fremmede-arter/)F&Z Solutions has developed a custom environmental DNA (eDNA) pump in...** [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/the-pamela-drone-helps-nina-track-invasive-species) ## [Revolutionizing Seafloor Mapping: Eelume Redefines Subsea Exploration](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/revolutionizing-seafloor-mapping-eelume-redefine-subsea-exploration) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Dec 6, 2024, 12:25:11 PM [Les saken på norsk](https://fi-nor.no/eelume-revolusjonerer-kartlegging-av-havbunnen/) Ocean Autonomy Cluster member [Eelume](https://www.eelume.com/), in collaboration with Voyis and Exail, has... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/revolutionizing-seafloor-mapping-eelume-redefine-subsea-exploration) ## [NRK TV: Drone from Clean Sea Solutions is now cleaning up the Trondheim harbor](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/drone-from-clean-sea-solutions-is-now-cleaning-up-the-trondheim-harbor) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Dec 3, 2024, 5:51:35 PM "This is the future," says Bjørnar Horsgård from Trondheim Port Authority. The drone from Clean Sea... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/drone-from-clean-sea-solutions-is-now-cleaning-up-the-trondheim-harbor) ## [SINTEF and Njord Aqua-technology detects even small holes in fish cage nets - in real time](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/sintef-and-njord-aqua-technology-detects-even-small-holes-in-fish-cage-nets-in-real-time) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Dec 3, 2024, 5:28:26 PM Detecting small holes in cage nets in real time is not a technology that is readily available in... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/sintef-and-njord-aqua-technology-detects-even-small-holes-in-fish-cage-nets-in-real-time) ## [Driving the Future of Autonomous Maritime Transport: Croatia and Norway Join Forces](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/driving-the-future-of-autonomous-maritime-transport-croatia-and-norway-join-forces) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Nov 29, 2024, 12:11:08 PM [**Les saken på norsk**](https://fi-nor.no/norsk-kroatisk-samarbeid-former-fremtiden-innen-autonom-maritim-transport/) [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/driving-the-future-of-autonomous-maritime-transport-croatia-and-norway-join-forces) ## [SubSeaSail joins Ocean Autonomy Cluster](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/subseasail-joins-ocean-autonomy-cluster) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Nov 25, 2024, 1:15:14 PM San Diego-based [SubSeaSail](https://subseasail.com/)(SSS) has joined the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, bringing its innovative... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/subseasail-joins-ocean-autonomy-cluster) ## 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) - - [1](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews) - [2](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/tag/drones/page/2) - ##### 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" : "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 Dark Drones 2026 brought together leading Norwegian and international actors in autonomous drone technology for presentations, panel debates, and live demonstrations in Trondheim. The event focused on defense, security, situational awareness, and collaboration between industry and military actors. Denis Kanin from Ukraine, representing Defence Innovation Highway (DIH), discussed the rapid development of both remote-controlled and autonomous drones in Ukraine. He highlighted how technological experiences from conflict areas can inspire innovation in peacetime and open new opportunities for both industry and defense. Dark Drones 2026. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Alberts Spila from the Ukrainian-Latvian company DK Nejet, which plans to produce 40,000 drones this year, said: We want to be part of the industry here in Norway. We already have early-stage collaboration on products that we will test on the front line in a few months, and Trondheim will become our global integration office. Alberts Spila, DK Nejet. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Read also: Ukrainian-Latvian drone company establishes office in Trondheim Autonomous Solutions for Air, Surface, and Underwater Operations Dark Drones demonstrated how the drones of the future can operate across multiple domains: in the air, on the water surface, and underwater. Fugro was highlighted as a world leader in seabed mapping and inspection. Jan Arvid Ingulvsen presented a video of unmanned surface vessels (USVs) operating in 6-meter waves. Fugro delivers solutions for situational awareness, including UAVs, USVs, and remote operation centers (ROCs) for global operations. Jan Arvid Ingulvsen, Fugro. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Sander Henriksen from Nordic USV showed how multiple autonomous drones can operate along large parts of the coastline from a single ROC, with multiple docking stations and built-in redundancy to ensure safe operations. Torstein Skogset from WaterLinked emphasized that underwater operations are one of the most challenging domains, even more demanding than air or space. The company develops navigation systems using Doppler technology and 3D sonar, combined with sensor fusion to make drones compact, robust, and efficient. WaterLinked collaborates with partners including Skarv and Blueye Robotics. Torstein Skogset, WaterLinked. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Sigmund Henningsen from SentiSystems presented GNSS-denied operations, referring to autonomous navigation without GPS, with examples from autonomous ferries in the Sognefjord, aviation, and future lunar navigation. Øyvind Smogeli from Zeabuz presented dual-use autonomy solutions, where multi-sensor systems enable autonomous sailing, remote operations, and SLAM-based navigation for GPS-denied environments. The ZeaFalcon Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) from Zeabuz was among the autonomous vessels demonstrated. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Situational Awareness with AI Several panel debates at Dark Drones emphasized the importance of AI and advanced sensor networks. Tore Norheim Hagtun from Clarify presented Gjallarhorn, a collaborative project that integrates data from multiple surface, underwater, and aerial sensors. He stressed: Too much data without context is useless, and speed in decision-making is a weapon in itself. Trygve Olav Fossum from Skarv Technologies highlighted that physical resources alone are no longer sufficient; software and data analysis are essential for autonomous missions, such as scallop searches in the Barents Sea and port security operations. Trygve Olav Fossum demonstrating the Skarv underwater drone. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Squarehead demonstrated how acoustic sensors can detect drones, boats, and helicopters, while Kahu collects and organizes radar and AIS data for dual-use operations offshore and onshore. The panel also highlighted the challenges of underwater operations, which remain largely unregulated, and the importance of access to test areas for air, surface, and subsea operations. Defense systems are complex “systems of systems,” and AI will increasingly support real-time decision-making. Dark Drones 2026. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Demo Day with Practical Demonstrations The second day of Dark Drones was Demo Day, where multiple companies showcased drones in the air, on the water surface, and underwater. Drone detection systems, counter-drone solutions, and Remote Operation Centers (ROCs) were also demonstrated. Nanodrone from Teledyne FLIR. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Demonstrations took place at Trondheim Maritime Center, Dora 2 Pier, and the Nyhavna harbor basin. Participating companies included Skarv, Blueye Robotics, Teledyne FLIR, DK Nejet, Airolit, Maritime Robotics, Eelume, and Kongsberg Discovery. In addition, Clarify, Wsense, WaterLinked, Ocean Access, and Fugro offered continuous presentations of their technology and solutions. Pictures from Dark Drones and demonstrations Levi Jamt demonstrating control of autonomous vessels from the Zeabuz Remote Operations Center (ROC) at Nyhavna. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Thomas Nygaard (Eelume), Eirik Hovstein (Maritime Robotics), Christian Gabrielsen (Blueye Robotics), and Vegard Forbord (Biodrone) showcasing the collaborative Eelume WP960 project. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Read also: Launching a new uncrewed surface vessel for mine countermeasures Dennis Kanin, Defence Innovation Highway (DIH). Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Dark Drones 2026. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Tore Norheim Hagtun from Clarify presenting the Gjallarhorn project. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Beata Hranaiova, Founder & CEO of Kahu. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Eelume WP960, autonomous vessel for mine countermeasures. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Nanodrone from Teledyne FLIR. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Tore Norheim Hagtun, Clarify. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Watch NRK’s coverage of Dark Drones 2026", "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" : "24/01/2026", "datePublished" : "24/01/2026", "headline" : "Dark Drones: Future Drone Technology Demonstrated in Trondheim", "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%288%29.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/dark-drones-future-drone-technology-demonstrated-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 The Ukrainian–Latvian company DK Nejet is establishing an office in Trondheim. The company develops and manufactures advanced drone systems for military and dual-use applications and views Trondheim as a strategically important hub for further growth in the Nordic region and Europe, with a production target of 40,000 drones in 2026. “Trondheim has a unique technology ecosystem,” says Alberts Spila, CSO and co-founder of DK Nejet. “The city combines strong technical expertise, leading research environments, and an active industrial base. We see many opportunities for collaboration and want to be an active part of Norway’s defence and technology landscape.” For DK Nejet, establishing a presence in Norway is about becoming an integrated part of the industry and strengthening the company’s position as a global player, alongside its operations in Latvia and Ukraine. Alberts Spila, CSO and co-founder of DK Nejet. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Scaling drone production DK Nejet develops and produces several types of drones, including platforms for air-to-ground and air-to-air operations. The company currently has five operational drone platforms, with an additional five under development. A key focus is a high level of automation, enabling a single operator to control up to 42 drones simultaneously. The systems can be integrated with sensors and radar, automatically identify targets, and execute precise operations following operator approval. “Last year we produced 14,000 drones. This year, we are planning to triple production to around 40,000 drones,” says Spila. DK Nejet’s standard drone, capable of carrying a 2 kg payload. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri See also: Launching a new unmanned surface vessel for mine countermeasures Establishing in Trondheim As part of the establishment in Trondheim, DK Nejet plans to open its local office in the near term and initially recruit two positions within project management and systems integration. The objective is to strengthen the company’s ability to integrate its own solutions with partner technologies in a faster and more robust way. In the longer term, DK Nejet envisions Trondheim developing into a global integration hub, coordinating technology integrations across markets and regions. Alberts Spila of DK Nejet presenting on the rapid development and challenges of drone warfare in Ukraine during Dark Drones in Trondheim. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Participated in Dark Drones and Dual-Use Meet-up in Trondheim DK Nejet has already been visible in the Norwegian ecosystem through participation in the Norwegian-Ukrainian Defence and Dual-Use Meet-up and Dark Drones in Trondheim. Both events were organised by Ocean Autonomy Cluster in collaboration with NORDSEC – Nordic Defence and Security Cluster. Demonstration of the company’s FPV (First Person View) drones during Dark Drones in Trondheim. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri During Dark Drones, Alberts Spila and DK Nejet shared insights into the rapid development and operational challenges of drone warfare in Ukraine. The company also presented and demonstrated its own drone systems. Nyhavna in Trondheim seen from a DK Nejet FPV drone. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri The conference focused on challenges related to operating and detecting drones in demanding conditions and brought together a wide range of actors showcasing drone technologies for operations in the air, on the surface, and below the surface. “We experienced strong interest in our solutions and see significant potential for collaboration in Norway,” says Spila. Read also: Ukrainian and Norwegian technology companies met in Trondheim to strengthen defence cooperation Watch NRK’s feature and interview with Alberts Spila during Dark Drones Photo: NRK", "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" : "23/01/2026", "datePublished" : "23/01/2026", "headline" : "Ukrainian–Latvian drone company establishes operations in Trondheim", "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%2842%29%202.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/ukrainian-latvian-drone-company-establishes-operations-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 Drones have become a central tool for operations ranging from emergency response and search and rescue to the protection of critical infrastructure – while also introducing new challenges and threats. NTNU Civil Security therefore organized a drone workshop, bringing together the Armed Forces, emergency services, and industry to share experiences, research, and operational perspectives. The intensive program offered a broad range of perspectives from defense, emergency preparedness, infrastructure, academia, and industry. Participants gained insights spanning operational experiences in Ukraine to research on autonomous systems, drone detection, and the protection of critical functions. Military experiences and civilian applications “The use of drones in Ukraine has fundamentally changed air operations, tactics, and countermeasures. The lessons learned there are also highly relevant for Norwegian defense and total defense,” emphasized Lars Peder Haga, Associate Professor in Air Power at the Air Force Academy. Lars Peder Haga, Associate Professor in Air Power at the Air Force Academy. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri “Drones give us entirely new opportunities to monitor and secure the power grid – in the air, on water, and underwater. At the same time, they reveal new threats and vulnerabilities that require improved detection and closer cooperation on drone security,” stated Espen Blomli, Statnett. Espen Blomli, Statnett. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Drones in emergency response, fire, and rescue “Drones provide rapid situational awareness, better decision support, and new opportunities for coordination in fire and rescue operations. We are now taking the next step with remotely operated drones from drone hangars and increased use of AI,” said Sverre Hogstad, Trøndelag Fire and Rescue Service – TBRT. Sverre Hogstad, Trøndelag Fire and Rescue. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri “Drones allow for rapid search, comprehensive coverage, and valuable situational understanding, while enabling footprint-free access before other resources are deployed. For now, economic constraints primarily limit capacity and sensor quality,” explained Marte Ramsvik Halvorsen, PhD candidate at NTNU Social Security. Marte Ramsvik Halvorsen, PhD candidate at NTNU Social Security. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Airspace, detection, and unauthorized activity Nikola Tufekcic, Avinor, discussed integrating drones into airspace, new air mobility concepts, and challenges related to unauthorized or unknown drone activity. Drone detection remains challenging, particularly when identifying the operator and intentions. Avinor is developing remote monitoring solutions and considering establishing a central drone detection center, while actively applying lessons learned from Ukraine. Nikola Tufekcic, Avinor. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Security, robotics, and ship recycling Jonas Rudshaug, Forsvarsbygg and NTNU, highlighted how drone threats affect physical protection of buildings, facilities, and critical functions. NTNU conducts experimental tests to gather data for relevant scenarios and stressed the importance of close collaboration between academia, defense, and industry. Vedran Simic, NTNU Shore Control Lab, presented the use of robotics and drones for inspection in ship recycling. The aim is to reduce human presence in hazardous environments and develop solutions that can be used by, for, and with humans in high-risk areas. Vedran Simic, NTNU Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Kosras Alexis, Professor at the Department of Engineering Cybernetics, demonstrated how autonomous robot and drone systems are trained and deployed on land, underground, and underwater. The future lies in autonomous systems operating in collaborative groups, with development accelerating rapidly. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Drones as a security policy challenge “Drones are evolving dramatically as a threat and are increasingly used as part of complex and hybrid conflicts. They blur the line between civilian and military domains,” warned Cecilie Hellestveit, international law researcher and newly appointed Associate Professor at NTNU. Cecilie Hellestveit. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri In the panel debate, including Thomas Tybell, Dean of the IE Faculty at NTNU, and Anders Bjørånesset Åsheim, Forsvarsmateriell (FMA), the need for collaboration was highlighted. The Armed Forces’ drone strategy is largely about cooperation, not just technology. “This development is happening now, not tomorrow. Our adversaries can use technology that is not fully developed. We cannot, and then we risk falling behind,” said Kjetil Skaugset, Equinor. Cecilie Hellestveit, Kjetil Skaugset and Thomas Tybell. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Collaboration for the future of societal security “The workshop clearly demonstrated how drones affect the entire spectrum – from emergency preparedness and search and rescue to defence, critical infrastructure and research. Going forward, we will build on this breadth of perspectives and further strengthen collaboration across academia, public authorities and industry,” said Ingunn Dahler Hybertsen, leader of NTNU Civil Security. NTNU Civil Security is a key partner for NORDSEC, Ocean Autonomy Cluster, and the Defense Conference, and the workshop underscored the importance of closer cooperation between academia, public actors, and industry to meet a rapidly evolving threat and technology landscape. 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" : "08/01/2026", "datePublished" : "08/01/2026", "headline" : "From Search and Rescue to Hybrid Threats: Drone seminar – NTNU Civil Security", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Fagdag%20Droner%20NTNU%20Samfunnsikkerhet%20Foto%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Fremtidens%20Industri%20%2811%29.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/from-search-and-rescue-to-hybrid-threats-drone-seminar-ntnu-social-security", "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 F&Z Solutions has developed a custom environmental DNA (eDNA) pump in collaboration with the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA). Together with the autonomous drone Pamela, the solution will now be used in multiple research projects in Norway and abroad. USV Pamela is a small and lightweight uncrewed surface vehicle (USV) developed by F&Z Solutions in Trondheim for environmental monitoring in lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. The platform enables the collection of high-resolution spatial data with great efficiency and minimal operational complexity. Andrea Faltynkova, F&Z Solutions. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset, Fremtidens Industri Pamela is already being used by NINA, which applies environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis to map biodiversity and monitor species of particular ecological and management interest. Living organisms constantly release traces of DNA into their surroundings—in the form of skin cells, hair, saliva, feces, and more. By collecting these traces, we can use DNA technology to determine which species are present in a given area, without needing to capture or observe them directly, explains Frode Fossøy, senior researcher at NINA. eDNA has proven to be both more cost-effective and, in many cases, more accurate than traditional field-based monitoring methods. Assembly of the Pamela drone at the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research – NINA. Photo: NINA Autonomous DNA sampling With the Pamela drone, NINA can now collect eDNA samples even more efficiently. The autonomous vehicle can cover large areas while simultaneously collecting plankton and filtering water using the newly developed pump from F&Z Solutions. “These samples give us a far more representative picture of biodiversity in a lake or a marine harbor,” says Fossøy. “In addition, the GPS-based autonomous navigation enables us to repeat the exact same transect later, which is essential when monitoring changes in biodiversity over time.” DNA analysis of the plankton samples reveals which crustaceans are present in the water column, while the filtered samples can detect everything from fish to aquatic insects. This year, Pamela will be used in several monitoring projects, including studies on how hydropower production affects biodiversity in regulated reservoirs. The hydropower industry has shown great interest in eDNA, and with Pamela and the new pump, we now have a powerful tool to support that kind of ecological mapping.” Senior researcher Frode Fossøy. Photo: NINA EU-funded pilot project – and support from Testination The new eDNA pump was developed in close collaboration between researchers at NINA and the team at F&Z Solutions. The pump is now part of a pilot series being deployed in the EU-funded research project PINKTrack, which aims to track the spread of invasive pink salmon in European waterways. Units are now being delivered to research partners in Sweden, Denmark, Germany, France, and Greenland. The production of this pilot series is co-funded by Testination, a shared platform that brings together test infrastructure in the Trøndelag region. Testination helps small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) develop and validate new technology by providing access to facilities and expertise that would otherwise be difficult to obtain. Testination is part of the Norwegian Katapult program, run through the DigiCat centre. It plays a key role in strengthening the maritime autonomy ecosystem in Norway. Key partners include NTNU, SINTEF, Maritime Robotics, OceanTech Innovation, Torghatten, and Boreal. “Our collaboration with F&Z Solutions has been extremely fruitful. They took the challenge head-on and developed a product we are very happy with,” says Fossøy. F&Z Solutions currently has the capacity to include 1–2 more projects in the pilot and welcomes inquiries from researchers with relevant field sampling campaigns. The Pamela drone from F&Z Solutions. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster From Trondheimsfjorden to Europe F&Z Solutions is a member of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster and an incubator company in FI Ocean Space Incubator, part of the ESA BIC (European Space Agency Business Incubation Centre) program. “F&Z Solutions is a great example of how ESA BIC-supported technology can be applied in both space-related and Earth-based domains. Their ability to enter the European market with a solution developed in close collaboration with Norwegian researchers shows the strength of this type of partnership,” says Linda Hald, European Affairs Advisor for ESA BIC and Fremtidens Industri. Senior researcher Frode Fossøy and chief engineer Rolf Sivertsgård from NINA testing Pamela drone in the harbor basin at Brattøra in Trondheim. Want to learn more? For questions contact: Andrea Faltynkova, Co-founder & Environmental Scientist F&Z Solutions Phone: +47 967 06 776 andfalty@gmail.com www.fzsolutions.no Frode Fossøy, Senior Researcher Norwegian Institute for Nature Research – NINA Phone: +47 996 92 303 frode.fossoy@nina.no www.nina.no/NINAGEN", "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" : "26/06/2025", "datePublished" : "26/06/2025", "headline" : "The Pamela drone helps NINA track invasive species", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Pamela%20Foto%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Fremtidens%20Industri.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/the-pamela-drone-helps-nina-track-invasive-species", "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 Ocean Autonomy Cluster member Eelume, in collaboration with Voyis and Exail, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in underwater exploration. Using their All-Terrain Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV), Eelume has delivered ultra-high-resolution 3D photogrammetry of the seafloor and subsea objects—completely untethered. This development builds on years of research and innovation at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and within Eelume. The All-Terrain AUV offers a new approach to steering and maneuvering AUVs, addressing the limitations of traditional designs. Eelume S-serie All-Terrain AUVs (All-Terrain Autonomous Underwater Vehicles) Addressing the Limitations of Traditional AUVs While traditional AUV designs have performed well for their intended applications, they face challenges in adapting to the growing demands of ocean industries. Eelume’s All-Terrain AUV addresses these challenges with a design that improves existing applications and enables entirely new ones. 3D photogrammetry and 2D photomosaics not only provide an accurate depiction of what truly lies on the seafloor but also serve as a valuable complement to sonar data, effectively filling data gaps in situations where sonar has limitations “With this technology, we can now uncover the true answer to what actually lies on the seafloor,” says Thomas Nygaard, CEO of Eelume. “Ultra-high-resolution 3D photogrammetry from autonomous underwater vehicles provides detail and accuracy previously unavailable. Combined with the capabilities of our All-Terrain AUV, this enables mapping in marine environments that were challenging to access before.” Eelume's CEO Thomas Nygaard and CTO Pål Liljebäck. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Revolutionizing Subsea Mapping Eelume’s All-Terrain AUV expands the possibilities for underwater mapping by delivering high-resolution data on the seafloor and subsea objects. The technology supports industries such as Security and Defense, Research and Academia and Marine Energy, with applications including the monitoring of critical infrastructure, coral reef mapping, mine countermeasures, and marine archaeology. Pål Liljebäck, CTO of Eelume, highlights the importance of this innovation: “Achieving this level of precision and versatility in subsea mapping has been a long-standing goal in marine technology. The combination of ultra-high-resolution 3D photogrammetry and our All-Terrain AUV is a significant step forward. The system provides detailed insights into the seafloor and operates untethered in environments that have been difficult to access.” There are two distinctive features that set Eelume apart from other AUVs in the survey class category (Autonomous Underwater Vehicle). The system possesses a maneuverability that significantly expands the possibilities for data collection, far beyond the limitations of today's standard AUVs. This characteristic introduces an entirely new category of underwater drones: the All-Terrain AUV, says Nygaard. Additionally, the system is equipped with an advanced combination of acoustic and optical sensors. When integrated with autonomous navigation, the system can generate highly detailed data over vast areas and long distances. Although high-resolution data from sonars is not new, our ability to autonomously produce exceptionally detailed 2D and 3D images from any underwater environment is completely unique, he says. Expanding the Scope of Underwater Operations Recent events have demonstrated the need for enhanced monitoring of critical infrastructure, such as energy pipelines and communication cables on the seafloor. Eelume’s All-Terrain AUV offers a solution with its ability to collect high-resolution data even in challenging environments. The AUV also supports stakeholders in making informed decisions that help protect sensitive ecosystems like coral reefs, while balancing the diverse interests that rely on ocean resources. Eelume S-serie All-Terrain AUVs (All-Terrain Autonomous Underwater Vehicles) Supporting Sustainable Ocean Exploration Eelume’s technology contributes to sustainable ocean exploration. High-resolution mapping provides researchers and industries with valuable insights into marine ecosystems, enabling better resource management and environmental monitoring. “Through collaboration and innovation, we are pushing the boundaries of what is possible, enabling the world to ‘Discover more,’” says Liljebäck. Innovators in Subsea Technology Based in Trondheim, Eelume develops highly maneuverable autonomous underwater vehicles for inspection and mapping in marine environments. As a member of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster and FI Ocean Space Incubator, the company is committed to creating practical and sustainable solutions for ocean industries. This development illustrates how collaboration and technological progress can open new opportunities for research, resource management, and environmental protection. Eelume is among the leaders shaping the future of subsea exploration and ocean technology. Read more: Kutter kabelen for høyoppløste 3D-bilder under vann (Kystens Næringsliv - Norwegian article) Do you want to know more? Contact Thomas Nygaard, CEO of Eelume LinkedIn Pål Liljebäck, CTO of Eelume LinkedIn eelume.com", "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" : "06/12/2024", "datePublished" : "06/12/2024", "headline" : "Revolutionizing Seafloor Mapping: Eelume Redefines Subsea Exploration", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Eelume%20051224%20Foto%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Ocean%20Autonomy%20Cluster%20%286%29.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/revolutionizing-seafloor-mapping-eelume-redefine-subsea-exploration", "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" : "This is the future, says Bjørnar Horsgård from Trondheim Port Authority. The drone from Clean Sea Solutions is now cleaning up the Trondheim harbor basin, collecting waste. This drone is designed to both detect and collect waste autonomously, says Gulleik Olsen from Clean Sea Solutions. Clean Sea Solutions is a member of both the Ocean Autonomy Cluster and FI Ocean Space Incubator. Watch NRK Dagsrevyen's report on the project Gulleik Olsen, Clean Sea Solutions. Photo: NRK Bjørnar Horsgård, Trondheim Port Authority. Photo: NRK", "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" : "03/12/2024", "datePublished" : "03/12/2024", "headline" : "NRK TV: Drone from Clean Sea Solutions is now cleaning up the Trondheim harbor", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Screenshot_20241202_192731_NRK%20TV.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/drone-from-clean-sea-solutions-is-now-cleaning-up-the-trondheim-harbor", "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" : "Detecting small holes in cage nets in real time is not a technology that is readily available in today's market. The inspection company Njord Aqua and SINTEF have developed software that does just this and can thereby help reduce the risk of escapes in the fish farming industry. Read full story at sintef.no Les saken på norsk", "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" : "03/12/2024", "datePublished" : "03/12/2024", "headline" : "SINTEF and Njord Aqua-technology detects even small holes in fish cage nets - in real time", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/SINTEF.png", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/sintef-and-njord-aqua-technology-detects-even-small-holes-in-fish-cage-nets-in-real-time", "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 does it take to revolutionize autonomous maritime transport? Croatia and Norway are collaborating to unlock answers. Ocean Autonomy Cluster (OAC) recently welcomed a Croatian delegation to Norway as part of the Adriatic Green Autonomous Transport Initiative (AGATI). The visit, organized in collaboration with DIH InnovaMare and supported by EEA and Norway Grants, focused on fostering cooperation and innovation in autonomous maritime transport. The initiative builds on the partnership established through the MATIN project. The delegation, which included representatives from the Croatian Directorate for Maritime Safety, the Croatian Register of Shipping, the Port Authority of Rijeka, and DIH InnovaMare, gained valuable insights into Norway’s advanced maritime ecosystem. The program featured visits to several leading innovation hubs and maritime companies, showcasing Norway’s cutting-edge work in autonomy. Exploring Norway’s Innovation in Maritime Autonomy The delegation gained unique perspectives through visits to key players in autonomous technology and maritime innovation. At Torghatten’s electric ferry operating on the Rørvik–Flakk route, they learned about its electric propulsion system and plans for implementing autonomous technology. Presentation of electric propulsion and future plans for autonomy at Flakk-Rørvik. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster At SINTEF Ocean's Robotics Lab, Maritime Robotics, and Blueye Robotics, they were introduced to advanced autonomous systems designed for surface and underwater operations. The group also visited Zeabuz, a company revolutionizing urban mobility with autonomous ferries. A visit to NTNU’s Shore Control Lab provided insights into its research and development efforts focused on control systems for autonomous ships and fleets. The lab develops and tests technology for managing and monitoring autonomous vessels from land-based control centers, aiming to ensure efficient and safe operations across various maritime scenarios, including navigation, interaction with other vessels, and handling complex real-time situations. Petter Sjursen demonstrating ROV from Blueye Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Autonomous transport will skyrocket “The overarching goal of both the visit and the AGATI project is to advance autonomous maritime transport in the Adriatic,” said Mateo Ivanac from DIH InnovaMare. “To achieve this, progress is needed in research, technology development, legislation, and societal adaptation. Strong networks and collaboration are essential to succeed,” he explained. Ivanac also highlighted the importance of timing. “By 2025, autonomous transport will explode. Even if we’re not leading the development, we must actively contribute to shaping it,” he added. Darko Dominović, Croatian Ship Registry. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Darko Dominović from the Croatian Register of Shipping emphasized the challenges and opportunities for regulatory bodies. “Our role is to ensure the safe integration of new technology. This visit has been crucial for understanding how autonomy can benefit not just specialized vessels but also conventional ships for freight, passenger transport, and research,” Dominović said. A Bridge Between Research, Industry, and End Users Ocean Autonomy Cluster plays a pivotal role in developing future autonomous solutions, including unique test facilities such as Testination and the regulated Trondheim Fjord testing area for autonomous vessels. The cluster connects research, education, industry, and end users, driving the transition to a more autonomous future. Frode Halvorsen, head of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, addressed a common misconception about autonomy: “It’s important to clarify that autonomy doesn’t mean unmanned. Autonomy is used for navigation, maneuvering, collision avoidance, system monitoring, search and rescue, and enhanced situational awareness, even on crewed vessels,” Halvorsen explained. He also emphasized the cluster’s role in fostering innovation: “OAC serves as a bridge between research, industry, and end users. Our initiatives, such as Testination and Test Arena Trondheimsfjord, are critical in shaping the future of autonomous operations,” he said. This also applies to the FAST project, which aims to transport salmon autonomously, and the FlexFerry project, which seeks to create an autonomous and unmanned trailer to expand capacity in the existing ferry network. The MIDAS initiative (Humans in Future Ocean Operations) researches how humans and machines can collaborate in autonomous operations. Additionally, the cluster offers an incubator supporting innovation and growth for startups. “In close collaboration with other clusters, OAC is also part of the ESA BIC program,” Halvorsen added. The European Space Agency Business Incubation Centre (ESA BIC) is a program initiated by the European Space Agency to support startups that aim to use space technology, data, or expertise to develop innovative products and services on Earth. Levi Jamt, lead developer human machine teaming in Zeabuz. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Defense and Security as Key Drivers The defense and security sector is a crucial driver for developing autonomous technology, both militarily and civically. This includes areas such as surveillance, border control, environmental monitoring, combating illegal fishing, Arctic search and rescue, and solutions for humanitarian efforts, fishing, and agriculture. “Several of OAC’s member companies have experienced significant growth in this area over the past few years. Companies such as Skarv, Blueye Robotics, WaterLinked, and Maritime Robotics have gradually shifted their focus from aquaculture to providing solutions for the defense and security sector,” Halvorsen said. OAC is also involved in several groundbreaking projects. The SMART project is developing autonomous solutions for safe and efficient salmon transport, while the FlexFerry project focuses on creating an autonomous, unmanned trailer to increase capacity within existing ferry networks. Additionally, draft guidelines for the use of small uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) in Norway are underway, with a planned release in June. “With our broad approach and active collaboration, Ocean Autonomy Cluster is a catalyst for shaping the future maritime industry and bringing autonomous technology from vision to reality,” Halvorsen concluded. Ocean Autonomy Cluster also worcs in close cooperation with MIDSEC Defence and Security Cluster. Sondre Sandvik presenting innovative autonomy from Maritime Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Groundbreaking Regulatory Frameworks and Passionate Engagement Nils Haktor Bua from the Norwegian Maritime Authority also emphasized the importance of testing facilities. Test Arena Trondheimsfjord, the world’s first test area for autonomous ships. The opportunities here are crucial for integrating innovation into regulations, he said. Kay Endre Fjørtoft, senior researcher at SINTEF, highlighted collaboration as a key to success. Close connections between research environments, industry, and clusters like OAC are vital for developing and implementing autonomous technologies, says Fjørtoft. Many of the companies stem from research environments at NTNU. It’s not primarily a top-down plan, but the sum of the passionate engagement from many dedicated individuals that has driven our success in creating the unique expertise in maritime autonomy in Trondheim and at Nyhavna, says Associate Professor Morten Breivik from the Department of Engineering Cybernetics at NTNU. Researcher Erik Veitch and PhD Candidate Vedran Simic demonstrating NTNU's Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Enormous Potential for Collaboration The Croatian delegation also focused on the regulatory aspects of autonomy. Niko Hrdalo from the Croatian Ministry of Maritime Affairs shared his vision. We want to ensure that Croatian innovation environments and the industry keep pace with the global development of autonomous shipping. Norway's approach to administrative and technological challenges provides invaluable insights. Ivanac concluded by emphasizing the potential for collaboration. The potential for cooperation between Croatia and Norway is immense. Our shared commitment to autonomy can drive innovation and sustainability across the maritime sector, Hrdalo says. Niko Hrdalo, Croatian Ministry of Sea, Transport and Infrastructure. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster. Driving the Next Wave of Maritime Innovation The AGATI initiative highlights the importance of collaboration in navigating the challenges and opportunities within autonomous maritime transport. With Norway’s expertise and Croatia’s ambitious goals, this partnership is well-positioned to shape the future of global maritime autonomy. Want to learn more? AGATI – Adriatic Green Autonomous Transport Initiative Mateo Ivanac CEO Innovamare, Croatia Željka Rajković Chief Operating Officer, Innovamare Croatia Frode Halvorsen Cluster Manager at Ocean Autonomy Cluster, Norway Linda Hald Senior EU Advisor, Ocean Space, Norway Lars Bugge Aarset Communications advisor, Ocean Autonomy Cluster, Norway More pictures from the AGATI visit to Norway From Blueye Robotic's testlab at Nyhavna. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Petter Sjursen. Product Engineer in Blueye Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster A Blueye underwater drone lights up the harbor water at Nyhavna. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster. Zeljka Rajkovic, Chief Operating Officer DIH Innovamare and Darko Dominović, Senior Surveyor, Croatian Register of Shipping, visiting NTNU Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster. Erik Veitch, NTNU Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Battery room on Torghatten's electric ferry Flakk-Rørvik.Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Electric propulsion on Torghatten's ferry Flakk-Rørvik. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Electric ferry Flakk-Rørvik. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster", "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" : "29/11/2024", "datePublished" : "29/11/2024", "headline" : "Driving the Future of Autonomous Maritime Transport: Croatia and Norway Join Forces", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Agati%20271124%20Photo%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20%2856%29.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/driving-the-future-of-autonomous-maritime-transport-croatia-and-norway-join-forces", "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" : "San Diego-based SubSeaSail (SSS) has joined the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, bringing its innovative expertise in BlueTech and autonomous maritime solutions to the group. SubSeaSail specializes in developing disruptively affordable, 100% energy-harvesting (wind and solar) Autonomous Undersea and Surface Vehicles (AUSVs). These vessels are designed for long-duration missions, capable of operating both above and below water at depths of up to 100 meters. We are happy to introduce SubSeaSail as member, says Frode Halvorsen, manager of Ocean Autonomy Cluster. Especially we are impressed by the company's rapid technological development, Halvorsen adds. Ultra-Low Signature Vessels Among SSS’s groundbreaking technologies are two flagship models: HORUS™ Observation Vessel: A semi-submersible monohull vessel designed for ultra-quiet operations, making it ideal for Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR). Currently at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 7, HORUS is poised for contract manufacturing with support from multi-million-dollar funding from the U.S. Department of Defense’s National Security Innovation Capital (NSIC). HERMES™ Trimaran Cargo Vessel: A multi-hull prototype that provides secure cargo and energy delivery capabilities, as well as offshore underwater storage. HERMES can function as a fast ISR platform, sailing at speeds of 5–15 knots depending on size and wind conditions. This self-righting, autonomous multihull vehicle represents a patented breakthrough in maritime design. Both vessels feature ultra-low signatures, says CEO Michael B. Jones – CEO. The minimal sound, heat, radar, visual, and wake signatures and edge-computing capabilities, allows them to act as distributed AI nodes across the ocean, Jones says. SubSeaSail’s technology has been supported by several U.S. government agencies, including the Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation. As of September 2024, the company holds 11 issued patents, with seven more pending. In October 2024, SSS expanded into a larger facility to accommodate its growing team and ramp up development. Michael B. Jones, CEO of SubSeaSail Seeking Partners for Advanced Sensors and Technology Development As a new member of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, SubSeaSail aims to collaborate with industry leaders to advance the future of autonomous maritime operations. We are actively seeking channel partners and manufacturers, Jones says. Especially we are interested in companies specializing in ultra-low SWaP (Size, Weight, and Power) sensors capable of enduring prolonged submersion and surface operations, he says. The addition of SubSeaSail strengthens the cluster’s mission to promote innovation and excellence in autonomous ocean technologies, further solidifying Norway’s position as a leader in this sector. Are you interested in learning more? Contact: Michael B. Jones – CEO, SubSeaSail mbjones@subseasail.com Cell (619) 253-8761 Jim Snook - CTO, SubSeaSail jsnook@subseasail.com Cell is (858) 775-2401 subseasail.com", "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" : "25/11/2024", "datePublished" : "25/11/2024", "headline" : "SubSeaSail joins Ocean Autonomy Cluster", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/HERMES%20prototype%20in%20Mission%20Bay.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/subseasail-joins-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" } } ```