Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri is investing €600 million to acquire majority stakes in four companies specializing in underwater technology. This strategic expansion includes firms focused on marine surveys and autonomous vehicles, aiming to enhance capabilities in commercial and defense markets. CEO Pierroberto Folgiero highlights the potential for significant revenue growth by 2026.
Last month, Hydrex successfully conducted an underwater bow thruster operation on a ferry in Stockholm during winter. Scheduled during a service break, the team collaborated closely with the ferry crew. They replaced the old thruster with a new unit, ensuring efficient workflow and eliminating the need for a drydock visit.
Fincantieri has partnered with Italian deep-tech firm WSense to develop advanced wireless technologies for underwater applications. This collaboration enhances subsea monitoring systems by integrating WSense’s wireless solutions into Fincantieri’s DEEP system, improving resilience and flexibility while minimizing reliance on traditional cabling for critical infrastructure protection and environmental monitoring.
Researchers are tackling the challenges of underwater 3D printing, focusing on balancing pumpability with anti-washout agents. Nair’s team, utilizing seafloor sediment, aims to innovate concrete solutions while reducing transportation burdens. With a collaborative approach, they prepare for a key test: printing an arch underwater by March, enhancing techniques amidst real-world obstacles.
A research consortium led by the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI) has created an innovative underwater welding robot, MARIOW. This AI-driven system autonomously performs welding tasks, reducing dependence on skilled divers. It enhances precision and consistency, even in challenging conditions, addressing the shortage of qualified workers in maritime repairs.
The historic fishing boat, The Incentive, is set to return to Eyemouth after being salvaged from a Polish harbor. Originally built in 1960, it became a local curiosity after sinking in 2016. Restoration efforts, involving students from Gdansk University, aim to preserve its legacy and craftsmanship for future generations.
Bundles of celadon bowls, along with wooden oars and remnants of a ship from the Goryeo era, were discovered off Taean’s coast. This significant find, revealed during a sonar survey by the National Research Institute of Maritime Heritage, enhances our understanding of the region’s maritime history and shipbuilding techniques.
Quaze Technologies has partnered with Vatn Systems to revolutionize underwater robotics by introducing fully autonomous, remote wireless charging for underwater vehicles (AUVs). This collaboration enhances AUV operational capabilities for the U.S. military, addressing traditional recharging challenges. Integrated wireless charging will boost endurance while reducing maintenance and operator risk in maritime operations.
Hydrex recently sent diver/technician teams to Belgium and Spain for stern tube seal replacements on two ships experiencing oil leaks. Using mobdocks, the teams completed underwater repairs, avoiding drydocking. With lightweight equipment and advanced technology, the teams worked efficiently in Algeciras and Antwerp, ensuring quick and high-quality repairs.
