An Advanced Underwater Vehicle (AUV), acquired by the Norwegian Maritime Directorate (NOD), a government agency responsible for managing and monitoring Norway’s marine energy and subterranean resources, has embarked on its first mission to map undersea areas in the northern Norwegian Sea.
While underwater areas have been mapped since the 19th century, simple weights were used in the early days to measure water depth and give the first indications of undersea structures and seafloor morphology. There have been major technological advances since then, greatly expanding understanding of the underwater world.
Mapping is done mainly using shipboard multibeam echo sounders these days, which provide detailed overviews of the seafloor. This data is supplemented by high-resolution surveys using AUVs, but this type of advanced mapping used to be contracted out to private companies.
However, the Norwegian Ministry of Energy financed the purchase of A Hujin Superior AUV In 2025 through the Norwegian Maritime Directorate. This vehicle will be operated by the Norwegian Marine Data Center (NORMAR) of the University of Bergen.
The AUV recently began its maiden voyage in the northern Norwegian Sea. Before starting its first function in early June 2026, the AUV was named in Bergen, with several representatives attending the event, including representatives from the Norwegian Maritime Directorate, the Ministry of Energy, the Norwegian Institute for Marine Research, and the Kongsberg Group.
Hilda the brideThe Assistant Director for New Industries explained: “This is important for Norway. Now that we have access to our advanced mapping resources, we are strengthening both the knowledge base and our ability to understand and manage deep-sea areas responsibly. We look forward to receiving very high quality data – and continuing to improve knowledge about Norwegian deep-sea areas!”
The purchased autonomous vehicle can operate at depths of up to 6,000 metres, collecting high-resolution data about the seafloor. This vehicle is capable of mapping structures and objects with very high accuracy using sonar, as sound waves are emitted and reflected.
“In many ways, it acts like an underwater bat, orienting itself and gathering information using sound waves.” The Norwegian Maritime Directorate confirmed.
Boost your brand with marine energy ⤵️
Steal the spotlight and establish your brand in the heart of the outside world!
Join us to make a greater impact and grow your presence at the core of the marine energy community!
