Port of Alicante Tests Latest Generation Autonomous Vessel

The Port of Alicante was the setting for the navigation and demonstration tests of a latest-generation unmanned surface vessel (USV). This project positions the city as a benchmark for testing advanced technologies applied to maritime security and surveillance.

The initiative, promoted by Cyberdatacontrol, allowed for the verification of the capabilities of the BNK Series M Patrol Version in a real operational environment. This autonomous vessel was developed to carry out coastal surveillance, reconnaissance, and support maritime operations using intelligent navigation systems and artificial intelligence. It can reach a speed of 53 knots, which is equivalent to approximately 100 km/hour.

During a working day, the tests were carried out at pier 19 of the Port of Alicante, where precision maneuvers, assisted, and autonomous navigation were evaluated.

Among the technologies incorporated into the system are autonomous navigation via programmed routes, latest-generation radars, thermal vision, and artificial intelligence for the identification of vessels, people, and floating objects, as well as redundant communications via mobile networks and satellite.

The system is also capable of executing automatic security protocols in case of communication loss, ensuring the controlled stopping of the vessel and the remote recovery of control by the operator.

The plan does not include permanent installations at the terminal, as the vessel will be transported by trailer, launched for testing, and removed once the demonstrations are concluded. The entire operation is carried out in coordination with the Port Authority and Maritime Captaincy, following current regulations to ensure navigation safety.

The demonstration showcased the potential of this technology for civil and security applications, including critical infrastructure surveillance, port protection, maritime traffic control, environmental monitoring, and support for search and rescue operations.

The autonomous vessel test coincides with the publication in the Official Gazette of the Province (BOP) of the ordinance to regulate a controlled testing environment for innovative technologies within the port area.

The text will be submitted for approval at the next Port Authority Board of Directors meeting and aims to reconcile the promotion of innovation with the protection of the safety of people, facilities, and public assets.

Furthermore, the regulation seeks to foster open innovation to improve the efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness of the logistics-port system, attract talent and entrepreneurship to the sector, and promote collaboration between public and private entities.