ROVs

Underwater drones, also known as remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), are tethered systems used for visual inspection, search operations and underwater documentation. This category includes drone platforms, expansion modules and protective transport solutions.

What an underwater drone is and how it is used

An underwater drone is a remotely controlled vehicle equipped with thrusters, a camera system 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.

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.

System configuration and technical consultation

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