BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 19. Fincantieri and
Saipem have inked a pivotal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed
at exploring collaborative ventures in the realm of autonomous
subsea vehicles, Trend reports via Saipem.

Fincantieri, the sole shipbuilding conglomerate globally
immersed in all high-tech marine sectors, joins forces with Saipem,
a frontrunner in engineering and constructing energy infrastructure
both offshore and onshore.

The agreement sets the stage for joint endeavors targeting the
surveillance and control of critical underwater infrastructure and
rescue operations. Leveraging Fincantieri’s expertise in surface
vessels and submarines, and Saipem’s trailblazing drone development
program “Hydrone” engineered by Sonsub, the collaboration promises
cutting-edge solutions for global challenges.

Saipem stands distinguished as the pioneer in deploying resident
autonomous subsea drones, capable of intervention and inspection at
staggering depths of up to 3,000 meters. These technological
marvels, conceived and realized in the workshops of Marghera
(Venice) and Trieste, have already demonstrated their efficacy in
servicing underwater infrastructure for major energy
corporations.

Meanwhile, Fincantieri’s legacy in the underwater sector spans
nearly a century, boasting 180 submarines constructed since 1929,
including 105 at the renowned Muggiano shipyard. The company’s
strategic positioning, coupled with its prowess in integrating
defense and civilian industries, underscores the vast potential for
groundbreaking innovations.

By formalizing this MoU, Fincantieri and Saipem position
themselves as frontrunners in the subsea domain, a sphere of
growing strategic significance amidst evolving geopolitical
landscapes. This partnership heralds a new era of collaboration,
poised to redefine the future of autonomous underwater technology
on a global scale.

Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn