Oceaneering upgrades Ocean Intervention II vessel for simultaneous autonomous survey missions
Published by Emilie Grant,
Editorial Assistant
Oilfield Technology,
Oceaneering International, Inc. (Oceaneering) has announced that its Subsea Robotics segment has upgraded the Ocean Intervention II (OI2), an Oceaneering-owned oceanographic research vessel, to perform simultaneous autonomous survey operations.
Launched in 2000, the OI2 was purpose built for geophysical and geotechnical surveys. In early 2025, the vessel underwent significant upgrades to expand its capabilities and improve performance for modern survey demands. Enhancements include:
- Survey System Upgrades, including hull-mounted sensor expansions and a full overhaul of navigation and positioning systems.
- Rear Deck and Interior Refurbishments, including the installation of a dedicated Launch and Recovery System (LARS) for safe deployment and retrieval of uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs).
- Data Infrastructure Improvements, including computer rack room retrofits and integration with Microsoft Azure Cloud
- Engine Room Modernisation to improve reliability and extend vessel life.
With its enhanced configuration, the OI2 seamlessly transitions between AUV and towed geophysical surveys, and geotechnical sampling, supporting efficient, multi-discipline survey campaigns.
Peter Buchanan, Sr. Director - Survey, Products and Services, Subsea Robotics, Oceaneering, commented: “The Ocean Intervention II provides a step change in survey data acquisition productivity with the ability to simultaneously collect AUV, towed geophysical, and geotechnical data. We’re excited to offer this enhanced capability to our clients.”
When paired with Oceaneering’s remotely operated USV capabilities and global Onshore Remote Operations Centres (OROCs), the OI2 becomes a key enabler of fully integrated, low-risk, and crew-light offshore surveys. This next-generation survey approach supports faster data acquisition, improved decision-making, and increased efficiency through simultaneous operations (SIMOPs).
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Read the article online at: https://www.oilfieldtechnology.com/exploration/30072025/oceaneering-upgrades-ocean-intervention-ii-vessel-for-simultaneous-autonomous-survey-missions/
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