Robotic surveillance vessel hits Kuwaiti waters
Marine tech firm Ocean Infinity has launched its cutting-edge NeedleFish Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) in Kuwait, with the aim of bolstering the country’s maritime surveillance capabilities.
The new USV was unveiled during a high-profile event with the Kuwaiti Coast Guard (KCG), marking a key step in Kuwait’s national integrated maritime surveillance system developed by SRT Marine Systems.
“We are excited to see our NeedleFish USV rollout continue,” said said Oliver Plunkett, CEO of Ocean Infinity.
”This programme is another significant milestone for Ocean Infinity as we employ our deep operational experience and proven technology to support clients in new and more complex markets at a time when these capabilities are more relevant than ever,”
Vessel autonomy
The NeedleFish USV is powered by Ocean Infinity’s advanced vessel autonomy, marine robotics and software technologies, enabling persistent unmanned patrol, mapping, and surveillance across 11,000km² of territorial waters.
This 14-metre dual-hull USV is operated remotely from newly established KCG command centres and integrates directly into Kuwait’s new SRT C5iSR maritime surveillance system.
During the launch, the vessel successfully completed open-water demonstrations for Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, Acting Minister of Interior and Commodore Sheikh Mubarak of the KCG.
For the KCG, the NeedleFish represents a major advancement in beyond-line-of-sight operations, offering real-time surveillance and unmatched performance in extreme maritime environments.
Ocean Infinity has been pioneering USV and UUV operations since 2019. A year ago, the company announced it is creating what it calls the world’s largest fleet of remotely operable vessels, including unmanned motherships designed to work in force-multiplier teams.
