The certification makes X-30 one of the first uncrewed vessels to achieve full compliance with the updated WBC3 framework, with the Annex 2 ROUV requirements introduced in late 2023 to regulate the design and operation of ROUVs in UK waters.

Developed and operated by XOCEAN, based in Ireland, X-30 is designed for uncrewed ocean survey operations, collecting high-resolution data to support offshore energy, environmental and seabed mapping projects.

Certification to this standard has proven challenging across the industry, with only a small number of vessels successfully completing the process to date.…