USV PIONEER Mk2
Product descripton: USV PIONEER Mk2 by ACUA Ocean
The Pioneer-class USV is a long-endurance autonomous uncrewed surface vessel (USV) developed by ACUA Ocean for commercial and defense operations in demanding offshore environments. Built around a highly stable Small Waterplane Area Twin Hull (SWATH) design and powered by a diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system, the vessel delivers reliable multi-week endurance while maintaining excellent seakeeping in harsh sea conditions. Its modular architecture, large payload capacity, integrated moonpool, and configurable command-and-control systems enable rapid integration of sensors, robotics, ROVs, towed arrays, and mission equipment for a wide range of maritime applications.
Key Features
- Aluminium SWATH hull for exceptional stability and seakeeping
- Diesel-electric hybrid propulsion
- Multi-week operational endurance
- Integrated ISO-compatible central moonpool
- Payload deck capacity up to 6.5 tonnes
- Configurable C3 and surface sensor suite
- Modular shock-mounted equipment racks
- Road-transportable modular hull components
- Supports 1 × 20-ft or 2 × 10-ft ISO payload units
Operations & Control
The Pioneer-class employs a dual-mode operational control architecture:
- Handheld UHF controller for berthing and close-quarters maneuvering
- Satellite communications (SATCOM) for beyond-line-of-sight mission control and real-time data transfer
Operations are managed through a dedicated Remote Operations Centre (ROC) featuring redundant power and communications for mission continuity. Temporary, mobile, or permanent ROCs can be deployed depending on operational requirements.
Software & Autonomy
The vessel utilizes FleetMind™, ACUA Ocean’s proprietary remote monitoring and vessel management software, providing:
- Remote vessel monitoring and control
- Charting and passage planning
- Vessel control and pilotage
- Voice and text communications
- Compliance with UK commercial USV regulations
Its open-architecture CAN-based control system supports:
- Autonomous and automated vessel operations
- Goal-based mission planning
- Station keeping and dynamic positioning
- Autonomous payload operation
- Third-party software integration
Technical specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Platform Type | Hybrid SWATH uncrewed surface vessel (USV) |
| Hull Construction | Aluminium, constructed in 4 modular components |
| Hull Type | Small Waterplane Area Twin Hull (SWATH) |
| Length Overall (LOA) | 14 m |
| Beam | 9 m |
| Draft | 2 m |
| Mast Height | Approx. 8 m |
| Displacement | Approx. 28 tonnes |
| Payload Capacity | Approx. 6.5–7 tonnes (configuration dependent) |
| Payload Accommodation | 1 × 20-ft ISO or 2 × 10-ft ISO units |
| Powertrain | Diesel-electric hybrid |
| Payload Power | Up to 50 kW (configuration dependent) |
| Cruise/Survey Speed | 4.5 knots |
| Sprint Speed | 8 knots |
| Propulsion | Twin Azipod drives with bow thrusters |
| Station Keeping | Yes |
| Operational Certification | Unlimited ocean operation |
| Operational Range | 5,500+ nautical miles (mission dependent) |
| Mobilization | Modular road-transportable hull components |
| Communications | SATCOM, 4G, UHF remote control |
| Remote Control | Dedicated Remote Operations Centre (ROC) |
Sensor Suite
| System | Capability |
|---|---|
| Fixed Cameras | 360° situational awareness |
| PTZ Cameras | 2 × PTZ cameras with infrared night vision |
| Radar | Maritime radar |
| AIS | Class A AIS transceiver |
| Communications | Dual-watch VHF & NAVTEX |
| GNSS | Dual GNSS receivers |
| Navigation Sensors | Pitch, roll, and yaw feedback |
| Depth Sounders | 2 × depth sounders |
| Weather Monitoring | Integrated weather station |
| Audio | Ambient sound receiver |
| Signaling | Loud hailer and searchlight/signal light |