Oceaneering’s Freedom™ AUV Wins 2024 TotalEnergies Innovation Award

Pioneering Subsea Robotics Recognized

Oceaneering International, Inc. proudly announces that its Freedom™ Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) has been honored with the Innovation Award at TotalEnergies’ 2024 Supplier Day. This accolade celebrates Freedom’s significant contributions to advancing subsea robotics and promoting industry best practices aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.

A Decade of Collaborative Innovation

The award underscores a decade-long collaboration between Oceaneering, TotalEnergies, and other energy industry operators. Together, they developed an advanced, resident-capable underwater robotic solution adaptable for various industries, including energy and defense.

The Freedom™ AUV, commercialized since 2023, showcases innovative autonomous behaviors and operational excellence in subsea operations, such as undocking, docking, obstacle avoidance, precision payload placement, surveys, inspections, and transit.

Commitment to Sustainability and Efficiency

Martin McDonald, Senior Vice President of Subsea Robotics at Oceaneering, stated:

“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from TotalEnergies. This award is a testament to the strong, collaborative relationship we’ve cultivated over the years. Together, we’ve pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in subsea robotics, advancing the Freedom™ AUV from early R&D trials to offshore campaigns in the North Sea.

As we look to the future, we remain committed to driving innovation and delivering solutions that prioritize safety, efficiency, and sustainability—not only for today’s challenges but for generations to come.”

Expanding Horizons: Defense Applications

In October 2024, Oceaneering secured a contract from the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) of the U.S. Department of Defense to build a Freedom™ AUV. This initiative enables Oceaneering to deliver commercial technology, driven by energy industry needs, to address subsea security requirements.

The Freedom™ AUV exemplifies Oceaneering’s commitment to collaborating with forward-thinking operators, including TotalEnergies, to deliver new technologies that improve efficiency by reducing time and costs, lower emissions, and advance a more sustainable future.

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