Newsroom
Uncrewed
surface
vessels
DriX series
Autonomous, certified,
and sea-proven
DriX USVs are engineered to cover every operational need through modular payloads and flexible deployment systems. From hydrography, oceanography, and scientific monitoring to AUV/ROV subsea positioning and UAV/ROTV deployment, DriX USVs deliver high-quality data, exceptional endurance, and mission efficiency.
300 k+
Contributions to European R&D projects
1 M+
nm of autonomous navigation
ss7+
proven at sea
25+
countries of operation
Operating every step of the way
Robust communication means supporting OTH operations
The DriX USVs can be operated in remote control mode or in supervised autonomous mode. In the latter, the USVs perform their missions independently while the pilot supervises the operations, either within or beyond visual range (Over The Horizon).
Robust communication means supporting OTH operations based on a multi-channel redundant communication system, DriX USVs can support both Line Of Sight (LOS) and Over The Horizon (OTH) operations.
In full OTH mode, Exail USVs are able to select the best communication mode based on the environment, while intelligently managing bandwidth usage to ensure critical data priorities.
This communication system includes:
- 4G/5G
- Silvus Network Radio
- Starlink Satellite
- Kongsberg Broadband Radio
- WIFI
The OTH monitoring can be done from any location on the planet, providing there is a high internet bandwidth to connect to the DriX USV(s) on a dedicated cloud and via a secured encrypted link. From Exail’s own control center, we are able to monitor, in real-time, our USV(s):
- Status
- Telemetry & Power Supply Management
- HMI features (including camera video streams, survey line plan…)
- Survey computer with all key information (including quality control)
A user friendly HMI for efficient operations
Exail USVs are equipped with a user-friendly HMI (Human-Machine Interface) which allows the operator to plan and control the unmanned platforms and their parameters. The DriX HMI is highly intuitive and features a graphical interface that allows real-time monitoring of various parameters.
- Status
- Mission planning and progress
- Sensors configuration
- Alerts management
DriX web-based intuitive HMI enables efficient remote operations
Autonomous navigation at sea
CortiX Autonomy
CortiX is the Exail autonomy solution to enable a high level of autonomy on maritime surface platforms. CortiX was initially deployed on the Drix H-8 and is now a generic solution that can be deployed on other DriX and vessels. It is now a field proven solution with more than 100,000 hours at sea whether for Line of Sight or Other The Horizon operations. CortiX is an open platform and Exail provides various level of API for 3rd party software interface and or client own autonomy developments.
Advanced obstacle detection
DriX USVs feature CortiX advanced Obstacle Avoidance System (OAS) that ensures safe navigation in complex maritime environments. The system uses a combination of advanced sensors, including video and IR cameras, LiDAR, and radar, along with sophisticated software algorithms to detect and avoid obstacles in real-time.
CortiX OAS is the first solution on the market combining surface and underwater obstacles management. This allows for safe operations in dynamic maritime environments.
Flexible deployment concepts
Launch and Recovery from a mother vessel : Using a special Launch and Recovery System (LARS), the DriX H-8 USV can be launched from a mother ship. be deployed from a davit, a crane, or an A-frame. Automatic docking of the USV without human intervention is possible with the DriX H-8 LARS.
Direct launch from shore or dock: DriX USVs can be launched from shore or a dock using a crane or other lifting equipment. For operations in coastal areas or from land-based facilities, this method is suitable.
Custom Launch and Recovery Systems development: Specific studies of a mother vessel are available to develop customized launch and recovery solutions that are tailored to the specific operational needs of the customer.
DriX H-8 being deployed from NOAA’s Thomas Jefferson hydrographic survey vessel
Why choose DriX?
Cost saving and operational efficiency
By requiring fewer operational resources than manned vessels, Exail USVs offer significant cost savings (from reduced labor costs, reduced fuel consumption, reduced maintenance requirements, and increased mission efficiency through reduced weather standby and rework).
Improve data quality and accuracy
DriXs excel in seakeeping, handle high seas (>SS5) and cross currents, and feature advanced sensors with reliable communication for precise data collection and real-time transmission. Located in a low-noise environment, the payloads deliver best-in-class data quality, providing operators with reliable information for decision-making and analysis in various maritime applications.
Increased mission versatility
The USVs feature a modular design, enabling integration of various payloads, sensors, and assets enabling flexibility and efficient performance across missions like science, exploration, and subsea inspection.
Reduced environmental impact
DriX USVs cut fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions, achieving a 95% smaller carbon footprint. Along with reduced in-water noise emissions, they contribute to promoting more sustainable maritime operations.
Sea-proven multi-vehicle collaboration
Used as a surface communication and positioning gateway for subsea operations, DriX USVs have a proven track record in supporting multi-vehicle collaborative operations. They can also be used to track AUVs/ROVs, recover QA/QC data, recalibrate navigation of subsea assets, or send plans via satcom.
|
DriX H-8 Medium range USV |
Drix H-9 Long Range USV |
DriX O-16 Transoceanic range |
|
|---|---|---|---|
Length |
7.71m |
9 m |
15.75 m |
Displacement |
1.6 t |
2.1 t |
10.5t |
Endurance* |
< 10 days |
< 20 days |
< 30 days |
Speed |
< 14 kts |
< 13 kts |
< 16 kts |
Fuel capacity |
250 L |
550 L |
2300 L (Dual hybrid propulsion) |
Range |
1,000 nm |
2,000 nm |
3,500 nm |
Towing / Deployment |
ROTV towing capabilities |
ROTV towing capabilities |
ROTVs, Inspection Class ROVs, 1,000 m rated AUVs |
Station keeping |
Hovering |
Hovering |
Dynamic Positioning |
MBES capacity |
3,000 m depth |
3,000 m depth |
Full ocean depth |
Transportation |
1x 40' Cube Container |
1x 40' Cube Container |
2x 40' Cube Container |
Other |
Launch & Recovery system |
Customizable stern section for |
|
| Learn more | Get quote | Learn More |
* Endurance depends on speed, gondola size, towing capabilities
FAQ
Modern Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs) leverage a sophisticated suite of technologies to ensure operational efficiency and safety. At the core is the autonomy engine, which uses AI and machine learning for path planning and obstacle avoidance (COLREGs compliance):
- Perception sensors: a combination of LiDAR, AIS (Automatic Identification System), HDR cameras, Infrared camera and marine radar to provide 360° situational awareness.
- Navigation & positioning: high-precision GNSS/IMU systems for accurate localization and DVL even in GNSS-denied environments.
- Communication links: hybrid connectivity using SatCom 4G/5G, and/or long-range RF links to ensure real-time telemetry and remote command.
- Power systems: depending on the mission, USVs use electric propulsion for silent operation, diesel electric for endurance and power availability.
Uncrewed Surface Vessels are transforming marine research by providing a cost-effective and low-carbon alternative to traditional research ships. They allow scientists to collect more efficiently high-quality data even in remote or hazardous areas without risking human life.
Main applications:
- Hydrographic survey: equipped with Multibeam Echosounders (MBES), USVs conduct high-resolution seafloor mapping.
- Oceanographic and environmental monitoring: sensors can measure currents speed and direction, water quality, salinity, pH levels, and CO2 concentration in real-time to study climate change. Equipped with Fish finding sonar or environmental DNA sensor, oceanographic information can also be correlated with the observed biomass.
- Marine biology: USVs use passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) to track marine mammals and "eDNA" sampling to assess biodiversity.
- Data gateway: they often serve as a communication hub between subsea sensors (AUVs/UUVs) and satellites, enabling seamless data transfer from the deep ocean to the lab.
The regulatory landscape for uncrewed vessels is currently under development, and with maturity levels varying according to the countries. At international level, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) is working on MASS (Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships) guidelines to be followed by the MASS Code to regulate large autonomous vessels.
For smaller uncrewed vehicles, surface or subsea, each country is working on its own national regulation through its respective national maritime authorities (e.g. MCA in the UK, USCG in the USA, DGAMPA in France). France and the United Kingdom have set up the current most comprehensive regulations.
The main consideration addressed by regulations for uncrewed vehicles cover the following topics:
- Registration of the vehicles and delivery of navigation authorizations
- Technical risk assessment prior to registration and delivery of navigation permits. This technical risk assessment includes the verification of COLREGs compliance (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea. -Insurance requirements and liability regime of the vehicles and the remote crew.
- Legal regime and certification of the operators and of the remote crew Minimum technical requirements and geographic localization of the remote operational center (ROC).
- Cybersecurity: given the reliance on data links, compliance with maritime cyber risk management standards is increasingly mandatory to prevent unauthorized access.
DriX Series key use cases
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