Remotely Operated Surface Vehicle (ROSV) Mission Advancement Field Test & Evaluation
This project aims to advance the Remotely Operated Surface Vehicle (ROSV) platform and its mission-specific payloads to a BSEE Oil Spill Response Research Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 8-9 through field testing and system integration. Originally developed under a BSEE funded initiative by the Prince William Sound Oil Spill Recovery Institute (OSRI) and Tactical Electronics (OSRR Project #1116), the ROSV is a jet ski-based, remotely operated platform designed for rapid oil spill detection, response, and mitigation in diverse marine environments.
This next phase of development focuses on enhancing the ROSV’s capabilities by integrating a new towed instrument package for detecting dispersed oil, deploying a LISST-200X sensor for droplet size distribution (DSD) analysis, and improving onboard data processing and transmission systems. The project also includes upgrades to the camera system, structural modifications for safe deck handling, and logistical enhancements for fuel and maintenance support during sea trials.
Field evaluations will be conducted across a range of operational environments, including local waters in Oklahoma, natural oil seeps in Santa Barbara, the Gulf of America, Arctic nearshore ice zones, and potentially, a controlled release site at Cedre. The final demonstration is scheduled for the 2027 International Oil Spill Conference (IOSC) in Savannah, GA.
By validating the ROSV’s performance in real-world conditions, this project will significantly enhance remote sensing and in-situ oil spill response capabilities, offering a scalable, rapid-deployment solution for environmental monitoring and emergency response operations. Successful completion will deliver a deployable, multi‑mission platform capable of supporting industry and regulatory stakeholders in mitigating environmental risks associated with offshore oil operations.
The contract for this multi-year effort was awarded to Tactical Electronics for $1,622,034 and is projected to be completed by September 1, 2028.
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