ADP collaboration for autonomous tugs
(Posted on 06/03/20)
Abu Dhabi Ports has announced its collaboration with a global commercial vessel designer and tugboat leader, Robert Allan Ltd., to develop the world’s first fully unmanned autonomous commercial marine tugs.
Once developed, the tugs will join SAFEEN, Abu Dhabi Ports’ maritime service arm, which maintains an expanding fleet of world-class service vessels. One of the primary advantages of the innovative design includes greater capability, as shifting the human element from on-board to onshore, will allow such vessels to operate in far more adverse weather conditions. Furthermore, the new technology will help increase efficiency and enhance operational safety.
Abu Dhabi Ports will work closely with one of Canada’s oldest privately-owned Naval Architectural and Marine Engineering firms on the research and development of remotely controlled marine tugs that will be fully unmanned and be able to operate within a wide spectrum of autonomy.
The two entities have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding to this effect at the International Maritime Organization gathering in London.
His Excellency Falah Mohammad Al Ahbabi, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Ports said: “In line with our leadership’s guidance, this agreement marks a milestone in our digital transformation, and confirms our commitment to ensure the Emirate of Abu Dhabi strengthens its reputation as a leading centre for digital innovation regionally and globally. It’s a top priority for Abu Dhabi Ports to lead the charge towards digitalising the region’s maritime operations, and we are committed to providing a pioneering model for the sector. Adopting digital solutions and keeping up with the changing demands of global trade have proven to be key drivers for economic growth and are integral towards achieving our goal of being a smart port.
“Developing solutions and building strategic partnerships with industry experts will help achieve a paradigm shift in maritime operations worldwide, and globally in line with the directives of the leadership."
Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Abu Dhabi Ports Group CEO, said: “Our cooperation with Robert Allan to develop a new generation of tugboats equipped with superior capabilities and modern technologies, reflects our commitment to ensuring that the infrastructure at Abu Dhabi Ports is at the cutting edge. We are engaged to provide smart and innovative digital solutions to the marine trade and port community, and to our valued customers. This agreement marks another qualitative addition to our digital armoury that will enhance performance efficiency, productivity, transparency, and safety, as well as reduce costs. Continuing our investment in technology and advanced infrastructure ensures the growth and sustainability of our business and increases our contribution towards the diversification of Abu Dhabi’s knowledge-based economy.”
Commenting on the MoU, Mike Fitzpatrick, President and CEO of Robert Allan Ltd., said: “We are excited to cooperate with Abu Dhabi Ports in this initiative, which provides us with an optimal opportunity to develop the world’s first fleet of remotely-operated tugboats for the commercial sector. The unique aspect of this project is the active participation of all the various stakeholders in Abu Dhabi and the UAE, which should ensure that we can progress smoothly from construction of the vessels to commercial operations.”
“Robert Allan Ltd. has been working on solutions to the technical challenges of an unmanned tugboat for several years now, but we were somewhat stalled in progressing to a commercial construction without an opportunity like this with Abu Dhabi Ports.”
Latest News
Dry bulk increases again in North Sea Port
(Posted on 20/01/25)In 2024, the North Sea Port companies recorded a volume of 66.3 million tons of seaborne cargo transhipment... Read more
AD Ports to invest in Sarzha Grain Terminal in Kazakhstan
(Posted on 20/01/25)AD Ports Group, a leading facilitator of global trade, logistics, and industry based in Abu Dhabi, has... Read more
Leading Vietnamese seaport makes impression at 12th PorTech Asia Summit
(Posted on 17/01/25)Long An International Port has made its inaugural appearance at the 12th PorTech Asia Summit 2025 and... Read more
Rhenus becomes majority shareholder of Bulk Cargo – Port Szczecin
(Posted on 10/01/25)Germany based Rhenus Group has acquired an additional 58,5 percent of shares in the Polish port operation... Read more
AD Ports closes strong year of growth
(Posted on 07/01/25)AD Ports Group has solidified its position as a leading facilitator of global trade and logistics through... Read more
Mukran Port starts 2025 with new management
(Posted on 07/01/25)Mukran Port has welcomed Henry Forster as the new Managing Director of Faehrhafen Sassnitz GmbH. Ines... Read more
EIB provides €80m loan for Bilbao expansion and electrification
(Posted on 17/12/24)The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed an €80 million loan with the Port Authority of Bilbao... Read more
Steel supplier Outokumpu invests €40m at Mukran Port
(Posted on 11/12/24)Mukran Port on the island of Rügen, Germany, has gained a strategically important partner for the... Read more
AD Ports consolidates digital capabilities into Maqta Technologies Group
(Posted on 11/12/24)Abu Dhabi based AD Ports Group a leading enabler of global trade, logistics, and industry, has announced... Read more
Haivanship expands operations into northern Vietnam
(Posted on 04/12/24)Leading Vietnamese maritime-logistics operator Haivanship (HVS) is growing its Konecranes fleet with... Read more
