The term "maritime drone" refers to remotely operated devices used in the maritime industry. These drones can be aerial, like UAVs, or underwater ROVs. While both are useful, this article will focus on airborne maritime drones, which have become increasingly popular due to their versatility and efficiency. In recent years, the use of maritime drones has gained significant traction. For example, in 2021, the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) awarded a €30 million contract to TEKEVER for aerial surveillance of European waters. This highlights the growing reliance on drone technology in maritime operations. Maritime drones are adaptable tools that serve various purposes, from inspections to security and even deliveries. As more industries recognize their benefits, the adoption of these technologies is expected to grow globally. Maritime drones are ideal for environments that are difficult, dangerous, or inaccessible for human workers. They help save time, reduce risks, and improve the accuracy of inspections and monitoring tasks. Here are some key applications: Cargo holds are often hard to access and can contain contaminants such as rust, paint chips, and grains. Traditional inspections require crews to enter these spaces, which can be time-consuming and risky. Maritime drones offer a safer and faster alternative by quickly scanning the area and identifying potential issues. Fire outbreaks in engine rooms pose serious risks to human life. Maritime drones like the Elios 3 can safely enter these areas to assess damage, check for residual fire hazards, and provide critical data to firefighters before they enter. Inspecting ballast and fuel tanks is both time-consuming and hazardous. Drones can complete these inspections in a fraction of the time, reducing downtime and improving safety. They also allow for more frequent checks, helping prevent costly repairs down the line. Watch the video below to see how an Elios 2 drone inspects a ballast tank: Inspecting large cranes is a challenging task. Drones make it easier and safer by eliminating the need for workers to climb into dangerous positions. They also allow for more frequent and detailed inspections, improving maintenance planning and safety. Drones are widely used for border control, anti-pollution efforts, and monitoring illegal activities at sea. Equipped with advanced sensors, they can detect objects, track movements, and assist in law enforcement operations without putting personnel at risk. Maritime drones are becoming essential in search and rescue missions. They can quickly cover large areas and deploy flotation devices, saving lives in emergencies. In one case in Australia, a drone helped two teenagers reach safety after a near-drowning incident. Delivering supplies to ships can be expensive and time-consuming. Drones offer a cost-effective solution, allowing for quick and efficient delivery of documents, parts, or medical supplies without the need to return to port. Maritime drones bring numerous advantages to the table, including: Maritime drone services are being adopted worldwide, offering innovative solutions for inspections, asset management, and more. Here are a few notable examples: This case study shows how using a drone eliminated the need for scaffolding, saving thousands of hours in labor and significantly cutting costs. A photo from the close visual inspection with the Elios 3 inside the COTS. Read more about this case study of maritime drone inspection of cargo oil tanks. This project demonstrated how drones can cut costs and improve safety during ship inspections, making them a viable alternative to traditional methods. Read the full story on using a maritime drone for a hull inspection.  This case showed how drones can speed up inspections on large vessels, reducing labor requirements and ensuring safer operations. This project highlighted how drones can efficiently inspect multiple tanks, reducing the number of people needed and minimizing operational disruption. Learn more about inspecting 63 tanks with drones. Choosing the right type of drone depends on your specific needs—whether you're working indoors or outdoors. The Elios 3 is designed for navigating tight, confined spaces. It features a protective cage and advanced software to ensure safe operation in hazardous environments. Its dual camera system and lighting make it ideal for detailed inspections of tanks, engine rooms, and other enclosed areas. The Matrice 300 RTK is built for harsh conditions and offers long flight times and robust performance. It's compatible with a wide range of sensors, making it suitable for diverse maritime tasks. The Schiebel CAMCOPTER S-100 is a versatile drone used for both civilian and military operations. It provides excellent coverage and is equipped with advanced sensors for effective maritime monitoring. Many companies opt for professional drone services rather than purchasing their own equipment. These services often include certified operators who can perform ultrasonic thickness measurements and other specialized tasks, providing cost-effective and efficient solutions for maritime operations. Steel Wire Spiral Hydraulic Hose High pressure and pulse resistance and long service life, Letone steel wire spiral Hydraulic Hose fully meets the needs of high-end hose users such as heavy machinery and equipment manufacturers. Letone hydraulic hose is guaranteed for use in the construcion, mining, agriculture, oil & gas and other industries with high performance. Steel Wire Spiral Hydraulic Hose,Rubber Hose,Spiral Hose,Steel Wire Hose Luohe Letone Hydraulic Technology Co., Ltd , https://www.litonghose.comWhat is a Maritime Drone?
What Are Maritime Drones Used For?
Cargo Hold Inspections
Engine Room Inspections
Ballast and Fuel Tank Inspections
Port and Ship to Shore Crane Inspection
Security and Surveillance
Search and Rescue
Drone to Ship Deliveries
Benefits of Using a Maritime Drone
Case Studies of Maritime Drone Services
Saving 15,000 Hours of Work with a Maritime Drone
Marine Drone Services Save $1 Million for a Hull Inspection
Malcolm of C-Bird guides the drone around the ship hullInspecting Oil Tanks on an FPSO with a Marine Drone
Read more about the oil tank inspections on an FPSO with a maritime drone.Inspecting 63 Tanks with 2 Elios Drones in 2 Weeks
The tanks being inspected are very high, making them difficult to inspect manuallyTypes of Maritime Drones
Indoor Maritime Drones
Flyability Elios 3
Outdoor Maritime Drones
DJI Matrice 300 RTK
Schiebel CAMCOPTER S-100
Maritime Drone Services