Janus Marine and Defense, a US-based marine autonomy specialist, alongside Nexus Remote Solutions, has revealed plans to launch a new remote operations center (ROC) for uncrewed vessels in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The centre will be dedicated to the testing, leasing, and maintenance of the vessels.
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The ROC, named The Quarterdeck, will be situated at the Addax Tower on Al Reem Island in Abu Dhabi.
It is set to be the first facility of its kind in the Gulf region, accessible to both industry players and small to medium-sized enterprises.
Janus Marine and Defense owner Jack said: “We’re open to small to medium sized companies and surveyors who want to innovate USVs mainly in the oil and gas industry but also naval sector.”
The Quarterdeck is designed to serve as a hub for innovation in uncrewed surface vessel (USVs) and uncrewed underwater vessel (UUVs) technologies, catering to the needs of startups and growing businesses within the commercial and defence sectors.
The centre is poised to take advantage of the UAE’s stance on USV operations within its territorial waters.
This ROC will function similarly to a research and development facility, where improved equipment can be hired, and vessel trials conducted.
The setup will allow companies to manage USV operations not only within the Gulf but also in international waters.
The Quarterdeck will be equipped with soundproof pods, each containing three individual operator consoles, thereby accommodating various roles such as pilots, technicians, and payload operators.
Dougherty added: “Currently the UAE has three ROCs spanning the commercial and defence markets yet all three are privately owned and closed to external contractors. As a result the Quarterdeck will ‘fill a gap in the market’ giving private companies access to the same technology and facilities found in private ROCs.”
