ROVs

What an underwater drone or ROV is and how it is used

An underwater drone, also known as an ROV (remotely operated vehicle), is a remotely controlled underwater robot equipped with thrusters, cameras and lighting. The operator controls the unit from the surface via a tether that provides power and data transmission.

These systems are used to inspect submerged structures, document underwater conditions and locate objects without requiring a diver to enter the water.

Underwater ROV drones from leading manufacturers

Professional underwater drones are produced by specialised manufacturers such as QYSEA (FIFISH series) and Chasing Innovation. These ROV systems are used for ROV inspection, underwater exploration and underwater filming in both professional and recreational environments.

Operational considerations before deployment

System selection depends on required depth, water clarity, current strength and working distance from the operator position.

• Depth rating and tether length
• Camera resolution, lighting and stability

Application areas: inspection, search and recreational use

Inspection ROVs are used for hull surveys, quay wall assessment, bridge foundations, pipelines and aquaculture installations. Live video allows condition assessment and documentation.

Search configurations prioritise visibility and controlled positioning in harbours, rivers and inland waters. Recreational systems focus on compact deployment for seabed observation and private waterfront checks.

Expansion modules and system integration

Many underwater drone systems support additional modules such as robotic grabber arms for recovery tasks, sonar units for low-visibility navigation and environmental sensors.

Protective hard cases are available for storage and transport of drone units, control stations and tether reels during field operations.

Choosing and configuring an underwater ROV drone

Professional deployments may require configuration of tether length, lighting output and optional tooling based on operational depth and environmental conditions.

For project-based inspection or search work, technical consultation can assist in defining a suitable drone platform and compatible accessory setup.

• Tethered underwater drone systems
• Used for inspection and search operations
• Expandable with sonar and grabber arms
• Configurable for different water conditions
• Protective transport solutions available

Questions about underwater drones and ROVs

What is the difference between an underwater drone and an ROV?

The terms underwater drone and ROV are often used interchangeably. ROV stands for remotely operated vehicle and refers to a tethered underwater robot controlled from the surface.

How deep can underwater drones go?

Depth ratings depend on the model. Professional underwater ROV drones can operate from around 100 metres to several hundred metres depending on tether length and pressure resistance.

Can underwater drones be used for search and rescue?

Yes. Underwater drones are widely used in search and recovery operations because they provide real-time video and reduce risks for divers. See a real example of search and rescue with underwater drones.

Learn more about underwater drones

Want to learn more about choosing and using an underwater drone? We have written several articles to help you understand the differences between systems, accessories and real-world applications.

• Choosing the right underwater drone (ROV)
• Qysea or Chasing: which underwater drone fits your workflow?
• What is sonar and how does it work on an underwater drone?
• Underwater drones in practice: search and rescue

These articles give you more insight into underwater drone applications, system differences and useful expansion options for professional work.