Tribune News Network
Doha
Recognising Qatar’s commitment to digital transformation and sustainable development -- as ingrained in its National Vision 2030 -- Blue Future, affiliated with Hong Kong’s Ocean Alpha, is keen to set up operations in the country looking at Qatar Foundation’s Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) as its entry point.
Having only established itself in 2024, Blue Future is at the helm of the evolution of USVs (Uncrewed Surface Vessels) -- the seafaring equivalent of flying drones, bringing a new dimension to environmental monitoring, marine surveying, offshore energy and maritime security.
USVs’ unique robotic systems are designed for autonomous marine operations and are capable of performing complex and often hazardous tasks without human intervention. By integrating various electronic systems and mechanical devices, they’re able to take on challenging, repetitive and sometimes dangerous work on water.
Blue Future has already developed and delivered some of the most advanced USVs in the world, thanks to a team composed of USV experts from all over the world. The company’s aim is to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) and uncrewed technology to deliver 100 percent of a USV’s targeted operations with just five percent of the carbon footprint.
With over 350 miles of coastline, rich marine life and abundant offshore energy resources, Blue Future recognised Qatar not only as a prominent target for the USV market but also as an environment which could see it become the Middle East’s natural launchpad for the global expansion of uncrewed maritime solutions.
Furthermore, technology hubs such as QSTP, renowned universities, an international talent pool, and a strategic location at the gateway of East and West further bolster its credentials as the region’s unofficial USV headquarters.
The company is aiming to integrate USV and AI technology into Qatar’s marine landscape - from traditional shipbuilding and offshore energy to marine surveying, maritime transport, and even tourism - as it aspires to help make Qatar a model of digital transformation in the marine sector, setting new standards for sustainability and innovation.
Given the increasing value and importance of the global ocean economy with current projections placing its value at $3 trillion by 2030, USVs have become essential marine assets positioned to capture a substantial share of this growing market.
Furthermore, the complexity of the marine environment makes marine engineering challenging in various ways including costly labour, workforce safety concerns, and energy intensive equipment where USVs come in as a transformative alternative. For example, Blue Future’s 2.5-ton L25 marine USV can replace a traditional 300-ton vessel at just 15 percent of the cost, with fuel and labour expenses reduced to 5-10 percent.
Blue Future’s initial engagements in Qatar have already seen it launch three USV products tailored to Qatar’s USV application needs. These include a 1-meter water quality monitoring USV, a 5.5-meter patrol USV, and a 7.5-meter marine survey USV.
As the company looks to integrate within QSTP’s ecosystem, it is already familiar with the benefits of working within such a progressive environment.
Pinestone Shi, general manager of Blue Future, commented: “Beyond an excellent work environment, first-rate office facilities and welcome access to several local and international companies at QSTP that allow free flow of knowledge and expertise exchange, connecting with Qatar Foundation’s rich ecosystem with world-class laboratories, academics, researchers, and students has been among the greatest advantages of our collaboration with QSTP. Thanks to QSTP’s support, we’ve also had the opportunity to engage with key government entities and decision-makers. It has been remarkable to see how open these organizations are to new technologies and how supportive they’ve been in helping us localize our solutions.”
Dr Jack Lau, president of QSTP, said: “Blue Future will be an incredible new addition to QSTP and it’s clear to see how USVs bring together advancements from diverse fields such as AI, guidance and control systems, communications, computer science, and naval engineering. These vessels are crucial for humanity’s progress in ocean exploration and conservation and will undoubtedly be a major area of innovation among nations worldwide. These hi-tech solutions are aligned with Qatar’s ambitions to lead in digital innovation, environmental stewardship, and sustainability, and we are excited to play a role in creating a new and exciting future for this market.”
Most recently, Blue Future showcased their USVs at the Milipol and the Qatar Boat Show 2024. Their next exhibit will be at QSTP’s upcoming AI Week 2024, taking place from November 24-28, in QSTP premises.
Members of the public looking to engage with global leaders in AI or simply immerse themselves in AI-powered technologies, can register to attend the upcoming QSTP AI Week via https://qstp.org.qa/ai-week-2024/
Learn more about Blue Future at https://www.oceanalpha.com/blue-future/
