Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
Cyberhawk Expands Drone Inspection Services with SSE for Offshore Wind and Infrastructure
Cyberhawk, a subsidiary of Ondas, has secured a multi-year agreement with SSE’s regulated electricity network businesses, SSEN Transmission and Distribution. This three-year deal, with a potential two-year extension, allows Cyberhawk to provide drone inspection and surveying services across SSE’s electricity networks in mainland Britain and now includes offshore wind turbine inspections. The partnership is significant as it marks an expansion into SSE’s offshore renewable energy assets, addressing the growing importance of offshore wind farms in the energy sector. Cyberhawk's drone services will enhance inspection capabilities for large numbers of turbines in challenging environments, reducing the need for hazardous field inspections. Additionally, Cyberhawk has renewed its agreement for iHawk as a Service, a digital platform that centralizes inspection data and utilizes AI-assisted analytics. This integration aims to streamline the management of inspection information, helping utility operators prioritize maintenance tasks effectively. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
News
The Importance of Infrared Windows for Safe Electrical Equipment Inspections
Infrared windows are becoming essential for safe inspections of electrical equipment in automated production lines. These windows allow maintenance teams to use thermal cameras to inspect internal components without opening cabinets, thus maintaining safety while ensuring operational efficiency. The significance of infrared windows lies in their ability to detect potential electrical issues before they lead to machine failures. By identifying unusual heat patterns through thermal imaging, maintenance teams can address problems proactively, reducing downtime and enhancing productivity in facilities with numerous electrical cabinets. Looking ahead, the adoption of infrared windows may increase as industries seek to improve safety and efficiency in equipment inspections. As maintenance teams face growing demands, these windows provide a practical solution to minimize risks associated with accessing energized components. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Engineering Home robots Manufacturing condition monitoring electrical equipment electrical inspections
Study on Offshore Wind Turbine Blade Repair Using Particle Swarm Optimization and Advanced Control Techniques
A recent study published in the Journal of Field Robotics explores innovative methods for repairing offshore wind turbine blades. The research focuses on utilizing a Particle Swarm Optimization-Backpropagation Neural Network combined with Improved Active Disturbance Rejection Control to enhance repair efficiency. This research is significant as it addresses the growing need for effective maintenance strategies in offshore wind energy, which is crucial for maximizing energy output and minimizing downtime. The integration of advanced algorithms aims to improve the precision and reliability of repair processes, ultimately contributing to the sustainability of wind energy. Looking ahead, the implications of this study could influence future developments in wind turbine maintenance technologies. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
RESEARCH ARTICLE
Hummingbird F100 Revolutionizes Wind Turbine Blade Inspection with Wireless Technology
The Hummingbird F100, launched by Schrodinger Industrial Group, marks a significant advancement in wind turbine blade inspection. This device operates wirelessly, enabling stable connections over distances of up to 150 meters, and is designed to navigate complex internal structures of turbine blades, which are typically challenging to inspect due to their confined spaces. The global market for wind turbine blade inspection services is projected to grow from $7.74 billion in 2025 to $8.48 billion in 2026, with a compound annual growth rate of 9.6%. The Hummingbird F100 addresses the industry's need for more efficient inspection methods by automating data collection and analysis, shifting from reactive maintenance to proactive asset management. Looking ahead, the integration of AI with inspection robotics will enhance defect detection and reporting capabilities. The transition from wired to wireless operations will not only streamline deployment but also expand operational ranges and reduce on-site risks. The Hummingbird F100's modular design allows for rapid adaptation to various inspection scenarios, positioning it as a key player in the evolving wind energy sector.
Wind Turbine Inspection Robotics AI Technology Data Management Wireless Solutions
MFE Offshore Partners with Hydromea to Distribute EXRAY Underwater Inspection ROV
MFE Offshore, based in Houston, has announced its partnership with Swiss robotics developer Hydromea to distribute the Hydromea EXRAY underwater inspection ROV. This agreement, made public on July 9, 2026, enhances MFE Offshore's subsea portfolio, which was launched earlier this year. The EXRAY offers a tetherless alternative for underwater inspections, reducing costs and risks associated with traditional methods. The significance of this partnership lies in the EXRAY's ability to provide efficient and safe data collection in challenging underwater environments. As stated by Wendy Post, general manager of MFE Offshore, the demand for advanced inspection technologies is increasing as operators face more complex underwater challenges. The EXRAY's capabilities, including real-time control and live HD video transmission, position it as a valuable tool for energy operators. Looking ahead, MFE Offshore will showcase the EXRAY during a Demo Day on July 16 at its Houston facility, allowing potential customers to see the ROV in action. This event highlights MFE Offshore's commitment to bringing innovative inspection solutions to the energy sector, with no further timeline disclosed at the time of publication.
Drone News Drone News Feeds Inspection News seadrones underwater drones
Perceptual Robotics Secures Over £4 Million for Wind Turbine Inspection Drone Expansion
Perceptual Robotics, a Bristol-based drone company, has successfully raised over £4 million (approximately $5.3 million) as of July 28, 2026. This funding, which includes investment from Innovate UK, Loggerhead Ventures, One Planet Capital, and new investor Investing for Purpose, will be used to enhance its wind turbine inspection platform. The significance of this funding lies in its potential to bolster the company's capabilities in both onshore and offshore wind turbine inspections. Matthew Jellicoe from One Planet Capital highlighted the strong investor support and the company's momentum, indicating that Perceptual Robotics is well-positioned for expansion into various verticals over the next two years. Looking ahead, Perceptual Robotics aims to accelerate product development and deepen its offshore support. The company plans to leverage this funding to enhance its autonomous drones and AI services, which are crucial for managing wind turbine blade inspections and extending service life for operators. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Drone News Drone News Feeds Inspection News UK Drone Industry UK Drone Space
Fugro to Deliver Multi-year Marine Mammal Monitoring Supporting Ireland’s Offshore Wind Ambitions
Fugro has been awarded a two-year contract by EirGrid, Ireland’s state-owned electricity transmission operator, to conduct long-term marine mammal monitoring along the south coast of Ireland. This initiative is part of EirGrid’s Powering Up Offshore – South Coast programme, aimed at enhancing the electricity infrastructure necessary for connecting future offshore wind farms to the national grid. The contract also signifies the inaugural commercial use of Fugro’s specially designed mooring system, highlighting the company’s commitment to supporting sustainable energy development in the region.
fugro marine mammal monitoring offshore wind
Fugro Geotechnical Survey to Support Berwick Bank B Offshore Wind Farm
Fugro has secured a significant geotechnical survey contract from SSE for the Berwick Bank B phase of the ambitious Berwick Bank offshore wind project located in the North Sea. This phase is part of a broader initiative aimed at achieving a total offshore wind capacity of 4.1 GW across three phases. If fully realized, Berwick Bank has the potential to become the largest offshore wind farm globally, generating sufficient clean electricity to supply over six million homes in the UK each year. The project underscores the growing commitment to renewable energy and the transition towards sustainable power sources.
fugro geotechnical survey berwick bank b offshore wind farm
Perceptual Robotics Raises Funding to Automate Wind Turbine Inspection Drones
Perceptual Robotics, a Thessaloniki-based company, has successfully secured new funding to enhance its autonomous wind turbine inspection platform. The investment round, announced on May 5, 2026, was led by Loggerhead Ventures, with additional support from One Planet Capital. This financial backing aims to advance the development of AI-powered drones designed for wind farm maintenance, reflecting the growing demand for innovative solutions in renewable energy infrastructure. The funding will enable Perceptual Robotics to scale its operations and improve the efficiency of wind turbine inspections, ultimately contributing to the sustainability of wind energy production.
Drone News Drone News Feeds Europe Drone Industry European Union infrastructure Inspection
Fugro Awarded Geotechnical Survey Contract for TotalEnergies’ NSE 1 Offshore Wind Farm Development
Fugro has secured a contract to conduct extensive geotechnical surveys for the NordSee Energies 1 offshore wind farm, a significant renewable energy initiative spearheaded by TotalEnergies. The project is located at the North Sea N-12.1 site. Scheduled to begin shortly, these investigations aim to gather critical data on seabed conditions at the designated locations for wind turbines and inter-array cable routes. This information is vital for ensuring the safe and efficient design of the turbine foundations, thereby supporting the overall success of the wind farm development.
fugro geotechnical survey totalenergies nse 1 offshore wind farm
DeepOcean Completes U.S. Offshore Wind Contract
DeepOcean, a global leader in ocean services, has successfully finalized trenching and survey operations for inter-array cables associated with a U.S. offshore wind project. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the development of renewable energy infrastructure, contributing to the growing commitment to sustainable energy solutions. The operations were conducted recently, underscoring the company's expertise in underwater engineering and its role in advancing offshore wind energy initiatives. By employing advanced technology and skilled personnel, DeepOcean aims to enhance the efficiency and reliability of the inter-array cable systems, which are crucial for connecting wind turbines to the electrical grid. This project not only supports the transition to cleaner energy sources but also highlights the increasing investment in offshore wind capabilities in the United States.
deepocean offshore wind contract
Fugro completes surveys for Italy’s Rimini offshore wind farm development
Fugro has successfully finalized geophysical and archaeological surveys for Energia Wind 2020, facilitating the development of the Rimini offshore wind farm, one of Italy’s pioneering fixed-bottom offshore wind projects. This significant 330 MW initiative marks a crucial advancement in Italy's energy transition efforts. The data provided by Fugro will play a vital role in determining optimal cable routes and guiding the engineering designs for the wind farm's infrastructure. This comprehensive approach aims to mitigate project risks while ensuring the development is safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable.
fugro survey rimini offshore wind farm
SEKIKAIJI to Introduce SMD Trencher and Advanced Cable-Tracker Technology to Japanese Offshore Wind Market
SEKIKAIJI Industry, a submarine cable installation specialist based in Japan, has enhanced its operational capabilities by acquiring advanced trenching equipment from the subsea technology and services provider, SMD. This strategic investment aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of underwater cable installations, addressing the growing demand for reliable subsea infrastructure. The acquisition reflects SEKIKAIJI's commitment to maintaining its competitive edge in the industry and meeting the evolving needs of its clients. The new equipment is expected to streamline the installation process, allowing for quicker project turnaround times and increased operational capacity.
sekikaiji smd trencher advanced cable-tracker technology offshore wind market
Fugro UST21 Completes Geotechnical Work for Ørsted on South Korea’s Largest Offshore Wind Project
Fugro UST21 has successfully concluded offshore geotechnical site investigations for Ørsted’s ambitious 1.4 GW Incheon offshore wind project, which took place in early August 2025. Situated around 70 kilometers off the coast of Incheon, South Korea, this initiative is poised to become the largest offshore wind farm in the nation. The project is a crucial component of South Korea's strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, reflecting the country's commitment to sustainable energy solutions. The investigations conducted by Fugro are essential for assessing the seabed conditions and ensuring the project's viability, thereby contributing to the broader goal of transitioning to renewable energy sources.
fugro ust21 offshore geotechnical site investigations ørsted incheon offshore wind project
Conference to tackle UXO risk to offshore wind
In an effort to address the persistent threat of unexploded ordnance (UXO), the Global Union for Humanity (GUH) is organizing a conference that will bring together developers, regulators, and experts in the field. Scheduled to take place next month, the event aims to foster collaboration and share best practices for mitigating the risks associated with UXOs, which pose significant dangers to communities and hinder development efforts. By facilitating discussions among key stakeholders, GUH seeks to enhance awareness and promote innovative solutions to ensure safety and promote sustainable development in affected areas. The conference will serve as a platform for exchanging ideas and strategies, ultimately aiming to reduce the impact of UXOs on vulnerable populations.
guh uxo conference
Robosys Automation Leads PROJECT ORACLES Consortium To Transform Consenting Process Of Offshore Wind Farms
Robosys Automation is spearheading Project ORACLES, an initiative aimed at revolutionizing the environmental consenting process for offshore wind farms (OWFs). This collaborative effort involves key partners such as ACUAOcean, MSEIS, Plymouth Marine Laboratories, and the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult. The project, which seeks to streamline and enhance the regulatory framework for offshore wind energy development, is set to make significant strides in promoting sustainable energy solutions. By leveraging advanced marine autonomy systems, Project ORACLES aims to address the complexities and challenges associated with environmental assessments, ultimately facilitating a more efficient pathway for the growth of renewable energy infrastructure.
Fugro Secures a Major Geotechnical Site Investigation Contract for Offshore Wind Farm in Taiwan
Fugro has secured a major contract from Shinfox Energy to provide geotechnical services for the 700 MW Youde offshore wind farm, part of Taiwan's Round 3.2 offshore wind tender. This project, situated off the west coast of Taiwan, aims to enhance the region's renewable energy capacity. The contract underscores Fugro's role in supporting the development of sustainable energy infrastructure in Taiwan, reflecting the country's commitment to expanding its offshore wind capabilities. The collaboration is expected to facilitate the project's progress and contribute to Taiwan's energy transition efforts.
fugro geotechnical site investigation new contract offshore wind farm
Demand for Sulmara’s Innovative Survey Services Increases as Developers Accelerate Offshore Wind Projects
Sulmara, an international subsea specialist, is experiencing increased demand for its uncrewed surface vessel (USV) operations and seabed mapping services, largely due to the rapid growth of Taiwan’s offshore wind market. This uptick in interest highlights a significant trend among developers, who are now prioritizing early engagement in site investigations and survey planning. This proactive approach aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of long-term project delivery in the renewable energy sector.
sulmara survey services offshore wind project usv
SeaRenergy and Tethys Robotics Announce Strategic Partnership to Enhance Offshore Subsea Inspection Services
Tethys Robotics AG has entered into a strategic partnership with SeaRenergy Offshore Holding GmbH, a prominent offshore service provider recognized for its expertise in complex subsea operations across Europe. This collaboration, announced recently, aims to enhance subsea inspection services by leveraging SeaRenergy's extensive experience in offshore wind and marine projects alongside Tethys Robotics’ advanced inspection technology. The partnership is expected to elevate performance standards in the industry, combining operational insights with cutting-edge technological capabilities.
searenergy tethys robotics strategic partnership offshore subsea inspection services
DOF Invests in First of Its Kind Modular Cable Repair Spread to Accelerate Offshore Wind Uptime
DOF has unveiled a groundbreaking modular cable repair spread aimed at revolutionizing the response of offshore wind operators to cable faults. This innovative system, designed for compatibility across DOF's fleet, stands out for its unique combination of flexibility, road transportability, and rapid deployment capabilities. The investment reflects DOF's commitment to enhancing operational efficiency in the offshore wind sector, addressing the critical need for swift and effective cable repairs in the face of increasing demand for renewable energy solutions.
Fugro and Spoor Create New AI Bird-monitoring Solution for Offshore Wind Farms
Fugro, a leading provider of geo-data solutions, has partnered with Spoor, a software company specializing in environmental impact reduction for renewable energy projects, to create a new bird-monitoring solution aimed at offshore renewable energy initiatives. The memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed recently to address the need for effective environmental assessments in the renewable energy sector. This innovative system is designed to protect bird populations while simultaneously facilitating the growth of renewable energy by making environmental assessments more affordable, cleaner, and safer. The collaboration underscores both companies' commitment to enhancing sustainability in the energy sector.
fugro spoor ai bird-monitoring solution offshore wind farms
Fugro Awarded Second Geotechnical Site Investigation for Australian Offshore Wind Farm
Fugro has secured a contract to conduct offshore soil investigation services for the Blue Mackerel offshore wind farm, a significant renewable energy initiative in Australia. This project, located off the coast of Brataualung and Tatungalung country in Gippsland, Victoria, is poised to become one of the country's first offshore wind energy developments. The investigation is a crucial step in advancing the project, which aims to contribute to Australia’s transition towards cleaner energy sources.
fugro contract award geotechnical site investigation offshore wind farm blue mackerel project
FET Supplies ROV for River Bed and Offshore Wind Surveys in the United States
Forum Energy Technologies’ Subsea Product Line has secured a contract to sell an electric Sub Atlantic Super Mohawk II remotely operated vehicle (ROV) along with a Dynacon Launch and Recovery (LARS) system to a subsea organization based in North America. This transaction represents a significant milestone for the company, as it marks their inaugural sale aimed at conducting river bed assessments in addition to surveying offshore wind farms. The ROV is specifically designed for shallow water operations and will be deployed in the Northeastern United States, enhancing the capabilities of subsea operations in the region.
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