German USV company launches own vessel

Due to be launched in 2026, the 4m vessel can be launched from small vessels, marinas or off the beach, will have a 200kg capacity and battery-powered propulsion.

SES, based in Germany, says it is the C-RECON 13-ES is its first in-house-developed platform.

It has been designed for hydrographic surveys, environmental monitoring and offshore asset inspection, and SES says shorter and longer hull lengths can be accommodated by adding or removing ready-made sections to allow for an extra battery pack or UAV hanger.

“Autonomy is not just about technology, it’s about enabling better business outcomes,” said Sören Themann, CEO of Subsea Europe Services. “With the C-RECON 13-ES, we’re providing a solution that helps European operators cut complexity, control costs, and deliver better results for their clients.”

The USV market is a growing one: just this week Maritime Journal has reported on two other firms building their own versions: Serco has launched a so-called No Manning Required Ship’ (NOMARS) for the US, and BMT has unveiled a modular uncrewed ship concept that it says advances the evolution of medium and large uncrewed vessels for commercial and military purposes.

“C-RECON 13-ES represents the next stage in our growth,” said Themann. “By building platforms in-house, we can deliver turnkey solutions that unlock the full value of autonomy for offshore energy, ocean science customers, and through our FLANQ business unit, defence.”