The Otter

The Otter USV (Seadrone by Maritime Robotics) is a lightweight, modular uncrewed surface vessel designed for efficient and precise operations in sheltered and coastal waters. It is optimized for data acquisition, environmental monitoring, hydrographic surveying, and surveillance missions requiring high accuracy and operational flexibility.

Its catamaran design and modular payload architecture enable rapid integration of sensors and instruments, supporting a wide range of marine applications including bathymetric surveying, scientific data collection, and port or inland waterway monitoring. The vessel is engineered for easy transport, quick assembly, and rapid deployment from small vehicles or shoreline environments.

The Otter operates as a fully electric platform powered by up to four interchangeable battery packs and twin electric thrusters, providing silent, emission-free operation with endurance of up to 20 hours depending on conditions and payload configuration. Its autonomous navigation system is managed through the Vehicle Control Station (VCS), which provides real-time mission control, sensor visualization, and flexible autonomous or manual operation modes.

The system supports advanced control features such as waypoint navigation, heading control, and speed adjustments, enabling efficient mission planning and execution. Optional SeaSight sensor integration enhances situational awareness with multi-sensor fusion, panoramic imaging, and obstacle detection for complex nearshore operations.

Core Capabilities

• Autonomous and remote-controlled USV operations
• Coastal and sheltered water surveying
• Environmental monitoring and data acquisition
• Hydrographic and bathymetric mapping
• Maritime surveillance and security operations
• Real-time sensor data visualization and mission control
• Plug-and-play modular payload integration
• Zero-emission electric propulsion system
• Rapid deployment and field assembly
• Multi-mode autonomous navigation (waypoint, heading, speed control)

Operational Features

• Compact catamaran hull for stability in sheltered waters
• Modular lightweight components (<20 kg each) for easy transport and assembly
• Vehicle Control Station (VCS) with real-time data visualization
• Manual joystick-like control via rugged laptop or mobile application
• Integrated autonomous mission planning and execution tools
• Optional SeaSight system for 360° situational awareness and LiDAR-based mapping