New project on tug controlled from shore
The remote control centre of RecotugTM (Source: Svitzer, Kongsberg Maritime, ABS)
Svitzer, Kongsberg Maritime, and ABS have signed an agreement to collaborate on what is claimed to be the first commercial tug, RecotugTM, to be operated entirely from a remote control centre on shore.
Svitzer will provide a new tug with crew, operational experience and tug-specific technical solutions, the companies explained. Kongsberg Maritime will take the lead in supplying remote control systems, autonomous technology, and system integration. ABS will provide guidance on the requirements for regulatory approval.
The aim of the project is to develop a tug capable of full towage operations controlled from a remote operations centre. Ultimately, with approvals from class and flag authorities, it is envisaged that Svitzer should be able to undertake remote tug operations in the Port of Copenhagen.
The project will build on earlier tests in which a tug, Svitzer Hermod, was controlled remotely in Copenhagen port. At that time, the tug master berthed the tug alongside the quay, undocked the vessel, turned it through 360 degrees, took it for a short trip, and then returned it to the quay and docked it.
Svitzer’s global COO, Ingrid Uppelshoten Snelderwaard, said: “While we are still several years away from seeing remotely operated tugs with no crew on board in commercial operation, there is no doubt that advanced autonomy is progressing fast across the maritime industry. Technology is changing our lives across the board and at Svitzer we want to influence and drive how technology will transform towage over time. Safety comes first, and this entire project is first and foremost relying on the implied safety case.”
