VIKING and Kongsberg collaborate to create innovative USV

Kongsberg selected Viking Norsafe as a partner for multi-purpose USV manufacturing because of its experience in building robust and high-quality craft for extreme environments. The Sounder USV System is a multipurpose platform designed to work across different market segments, including survey and fishery duties.

Ideal for military and commercial maritime use, the USV has been designed to be robust and durable with easy servicing and the flexibility to allow for fast equipment changeovers.

The Sounder USV System combines maximum stability with minimal vibration on the water and is optimized for low air disturbance under the hull. These features are essential in providing minimal disturbance to the data collection equipment onboard.

Equipped with large hatches on deck for fast and easy equipment exchange, the vessel’s long operating range gives it the possibility to reach a large area without the need for external power or fuel supply. Fuel consumption has been minimised by the optimisation of the hull shape during the design phase.

The USV has been designed to fit into a 40 ft standard container and is easily transportable by air, road and sea. The USV has a rigid lifting point, verified for safe operation.