Advanced AUV Deployed for Deep Sea Mapping & Exploration

The Norwegian Offshore Directorate’s recently procured autonomous underwater vehicle, Kongsberg Group’s HUGIN, has officially commenced its first deep-sea mapping expedition in the northern Norwegian Sea.

Funded by the Ministry of Energy in 2025, the procurement of the advanced HUGIN Superior autonomous underwater vehicle transitions Norway away from contracting private businesses for high-resolution subsea surveys. The vehicle is operated by the Norwegian Marine Data Centre, which is affiliated with the University of Bergen. Capable of operating at extreme depths of up to 6000 metres, the vehicle utilizes sophisticated sonar technology to emit and reflect sound waves, functioning similarly to a bat under water to orient itself and gather high-precision information regarding seabed structures and morphology.

This technological leap represents a substantial evolution from historical deep-sea mapping practices, which began in the 1800s when simple weights were used to measure water depth. While modern mapping has mainly relied on ship-based multibeam echo sounders to provide detailed overviews of the seabed, the introduction of dedicated autonomous underwater vehicles allows for even more high-resolution surveys.

“This is important for Norway. Now that we have access to our own advanced mapping resources, we’re enhancing both the knowledge base and our ability to understand and manage deep sea areas in a responsible way,” says Hilde Braut, Assistant Director for New Industries. “We’re looking forward to receiving data of very high quality – and to further refining knowledge about Norwegian deep sea areas!”

The vehicle started its first expedition in early June, following a traditional christening ceremony prior to departure in Bergen. A number of representatives were present during this event, including individuals from the Norwegian Offshore Directorate, the Ministry of Energy, the Norwegian Institute of Marine Research, and the Kongsberg Group.