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The world-frst WBC3 certifcation supports PIO- “We’re grateful for the opportunity to work with ACUA

NEER’s advanced technical sea trials under the UK Clean Ocean and the ongoing support of the MCA in the de-

Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC), which velopment and implementation of these new standards, showcases innovative technologies aimed at accelerating which will be critical as more complex autonomous sys- maritime decarbonisation. Data from the sea trials con- tems enter operation.” tinue to validate PIONEER’s enhanced stability and in- Neil Tinmouth, CEO, ACUA Ocean said: “This cer- creased reliability and capability over competitors. tifcation under Annex 2 of the WBC 3 is a major mile-

Speaking at the announcement of the approval, Ander- stone for ACUA and the industry. It’s a testament to our son Chaplow, Principal Specialist, LR, said: “This certifca- team’s commitment and focus on developing robust and tion represents a major step forward—not just for ACUA reliable ROUVs to the highest standards, and it highlights

Ocean or LR, but for the wider UK maritime industry. It our commitment to driving innovation and collaboration proves that certifcation of small, complex ROUVs under across the maritime sector.”

Annex 2 is achievable and sets a precedent for others in the On completion of sea trials, PIONEER is heading from industry to follow. It also shows what’s possible when de- her home port of Plymouth to London, for the DSEI de- velopers, regulators and classifcation societies collaborate fence conference, before travelling up the Thames to Tow- to bring emerging technologies safely into operation. er Bridge for London International Shipping Week.

JULY/AUGUST 2025 OFFSHORE ENGINEER 13