Airbus Teams Up with Wilhelmsen to Pioneer Drone Technology for Oceanic Deliveries
Revolutionizing Maritime Deliveries: Airbus and Wilhelmsen Collaborate on UAV Services
Airbus has partnered with Wilhelmsen Ships Service to develop a groundbreaking end-to-end delivery service utilizing an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) tailored for the maritime sector. This innovative collaboration was officially announced at the renowned Posidonia maritime exhibition in Athens, Greece, where representatives from both companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The Skyways project is at the forefront of this initiative, focusing on creating a safe and commercially viable aerial delivery system. Currently in its initial trial phase in Singapore, the program aims to test UAS technology in busy urban environments, with a planned launch at the National University of Singapore in July.
The MoU with Wilhelmsen marks the start of the next trial phase, which will enable the delivery of goods directly from the Singapore coast to vessels anchored offshore—a process commonly referred to as “shore-to-ship” delivery.
As the overall system architect, Airbus leverages its expertise in aeronautical vertical lift solutions to drive the development of the UAS designed specifically for maritime deliveries. This comprehensive system consists of aviation-standard UAVs, ground control stations, air navigation systems, and meticulously crafted operational and maintenance procedures. Wilhelmsen’s extensive experience in ship agency services ensures seamless customer service and adherence to maritime safety and security regulations during UAS operations.
The initial pilot trial, scheduled for the third quarter of 2018, will span two weeks, facilitating parcel deliveries to vessels off the coast of Singapore—one of the globe’s busiest ports. Delivery centers will be established at the pier to streamline operations, initially covering a delivery range of up to 3 kilometers from the shoreline. A second station will be located in Marina South to further enhance delivery capabilities for more anchored ships.
Leo Jeoh, Skyways Lead at Airbus, emphasized the significance of this collaboration: “Teaming with Wilhelmsen introduces a unique opportunity to test, refine, and innovate shore-to-ship drone technologies, combining the expertise of both companies to navigate the future of UAS within the maritime landscape.”
Marius Johansen, Vice President Commercial at Wilhelmsen Ships Service, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “Working with an industry leader like Airbus marks a pivotal moment in our journey toward drone delivery. Despite initial skepticism, this collaboration reaffirms our commitment to pioneering advancements in maritime logistics.”
By integrating drone delivery into their agency services, Wilhelmsen aims to elevate customer experiences. The company routinely organizes the delivery of essential supplies, medical materials, and funds to ship masters globally. Transitioning to drone delivery promises to be more cost-effective, faster, and safer for everyone involved.
The use of UAS in the maritime industry presents a transformative opportunity to expand existing ship agency services, potentially boosting productivity by up to six times, reducing delivery costs by as much as 90%, minimizing carbon emissions, and significantly lowering the risks associated with traditional delivery methods.
