Oi26 Perspective: Saab on Electric ROV Systems & Industry Skills Challenges

Saab UK’s Head of Business Development and Sales Sam Mountain speaks with OST at Oi26 in London about the company’s ROV portfolio and the ongoing deployment of the Seaeye SR20 By Summer James / 12 Mar 2026

Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV)

Discover cutting-edge solutions from 11 leading global suppliers
SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
Oi26 Perspective: Saab on Electric ROV Systems & Industry Skills Challenges
Follow OS&T

Speaking with Ocean Science Technology at Oceanology International 2026 in London, Saab UK Head of Business Development and Sales Sam Mountain discussed the company’s Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) portfolio and the ongoing deployment of its Seaeye SR20 electric work-class ROV system.

At Stand K100, Saab is showcasing its range of ROV systems alongside its electric manipulator technology.

Saab ROV lineup

The company’s ROV family spans operational depths from 300 meters to 3,000 meters, supporting inspection and intervention operations across multiple offshore sectors. A key system highlighted during the exhibition is the Seaeye SR20, an electric work-class ROV designed to support demanding subsea operations.

Mountain explained that the SR20 is currently being deployed through an ongoing contract with Ocean Infinity, under which Saab will deliver ten SR20 vehicles to the marine robotics company.

“The real-world deployment of the SR20 is currently ongoing. We have a contract to deliver ten SR20 work-class vehicles to our client Ocean Infinity, and we’re on track to deliver them through 2026 and into 2027.”
Sam Mountain, Saab UK Head of Business Development and Sales

According to Mountain, one of the industry challenges Saab is addressing through its electric ROV systems is the growing skills gap within subsea operations. Electric systems can reduce maintenance requirements compared with more traditional approaches, potentially helping operators manage workforce and operational pressures.

“I think we see the same industry challenges that everybody else does, particularly the skills gap,” Mountain said. “With the SR20 we can alleviate some of those challenges, with less maintenance required from an electric system compared with more traditional systems.”

Mountain also highlighted the value of Oceanology International as a platform for collaboration and industry engagement. For Saab, the exhibition provides an opportunity to reconnect with partners and explore how emerging technologies may integrate with its ROV platforms to enhance subsea capabilities.

“I think Oceanology allows us to reconnect with both old and new colleagues,” he said. “It’s a chance to see what technologies our ROVs can couple with and how we can enhance services even further.”

These developments were discussed during an on-site interview with Summer James from Ocean Science Technology at Oceanology International 2026.

Posted by Summer James Summer is an Editor & Copywriter at Ocean Science Technology. With a background in Creative Writing and English Literature, she joined in 2025 and brings a passion for subsea robotics, environmental monitoring, and ocean exploration. Her focus is on crafting engaging, accessible content that highlights the latest advances in marine technology. Connect