Ocean Infinity has received the last vessel in its 14-strong Armada fleet, closing a programme that began in 2020 to reshape how offshore operations are carried out.
Over the past five years, Ocean Infinity has built and deployed a fleet of cutting-edge lean-crewed vessels that differ from conventional offshore ships. With this latest delivery, the company has completed the 86 m Armada class, following the earlier introduction of the 78 m class in 2023. Twelve vessels are already in live operation and the remaining two are set to follow, as the fleet continues to push the use of robotics and technology at sea.
This milestone reflects Ocean Infinity’s purpose of using innovative technology to transform work at sea in a way that benefits both people and the planet. The vessels, which are smaller than many traditional offshore units, are linked to the company’s onshore control centre for live monitoring and remote control of robotic sub-systems. According to the company, the Armada fleet is already delivering safer and more sustainable offshore campaigns by reducing offshore headcount, lowering fuel consumption and improving the efficiency of operations.
Each vessel is mobilised with a tailored spread of equipment, including advanced underwater robotic systems for data collection. This allows the fleet to undertake assignments that span geophysical work through to geotechnical site investigations. These capabilities are being used on complex offshore projects in areas ranging from the United States and Europe to the Asia Pacific region, delivering high-quality data and supporting innovation in subsea operations.
Chief executive officer Oliver Plunkett said that completing the Armada 86 m class marks an important moment for Ocean Infinity. He recalled that, five years ago, the company set out to build a fleet of fourteen ships with an unconventional design because speed to capability was critical, and that this goal has been achieved despite numerous challenges along the way. Plunkett added that what started as a bold ambition is now a reality, noting that the Armada vessels are not a concept or an R&D project but are already in operation, changing how offshore work is carried out by placing software and technology at the centre. He also expressed his thanks to everyone involved in delivering the programme.
With the fleet complete and onshore control centres becoming increasingly capable, Ocean Infinity says it is opening up new possibilities for future offshore operations while continuing to advance its work in robotics and technology.
