A new survey vessel accelerates innovation and safety at Rijkswaterstaat
Rijkswaterstaat has expanded its fleet with REMO 1, a state-of-the-art, fully electric uncrewed surface vessel (USV). Purpose-built for hydrographic surveys, this unmanned vessel measures water flow and depth with exceptional precision. Its deployment marks another important step forward in Rijkswaterstaat’s ambition to enhance digital capabilities, improve safety and operate more sustainably.
Working safely and efficiently on water
REMO 1 is fully remote-controlled and capable of autonomous operation, allowing work to be carried out more safely and efficiently on the water. This is particularly valuable in shallow or hard-to-reach areas. The USV will carry out inspections of structures such as locks, bridges and weirs. It is equipped with advanced sensors and safety systems that continuously monitor its surroundings and can automatically intervene to prevent collisions.
Advanced technology for high-quality data
REMO 1 is fitted with an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP), which measures water flow and discharge - the volume of water passing through a river or canal. Discharge is a key parameter for understanding water dynamics and an important input for determining safe dike heights. The USV can also be equipped with a multibeam system that uses sound waves to map the riverbed with great precision. Together, these technologies deliver reliable, detailed and high-quality data.
Sustainable and future-proof
REMO 1 also helps to reduce emissions from the existing fleet. As an electric vessel, it lowers the ecological footprint of survey activities and supports climate-neutral operations. In this way, uncrewed vessels play a meaningful role in Rijkswaterstaat’s ambition to become a climate-neutral, circular organisation and in strengthening its long-term sustainability goals.
Collaboration and future-proof operations
Ron Kolkman, CIO of Rijkswaterstaat, commented: ‘It is impressive to see that we were able to realise this vessel in just over a year. The USV is a fine Dutch product to be proud of.’ Willem de Vries, Director of the Rijksrederij, added: ‘This vessel shows how modern technologies can be successfully integrated into our fleet. Its delivery marks a new way of providing more innovative and more sustainable services to our clients.’
Thanks to its versatility, REMO 1 opens the door to new approaches in water management. Data can now be collected in locations that were previously difficult or unsafe to access. In doing so, REMO 1 strengthens our knowledge base and helps ensure that our work remains fit for the future.