Reach Robotics Launches Advanced Intervention System

The Reach X is a power-dense, compact manipulator that will revolutionize subsea operations by enabling portable ROVs to carry out tasks previously reserved for human divers By Abi Wylie / 08 Nov 2023

Connect with Leading Marine Technology Innovators

Discover cutting-edge solutions from leading global suppliers
SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
Reach Robotics Launches Advanced Intervention System
Follow OS&T

Reach Robotics has launched the Reach X Advanced Intervention System, providing a step-change in underwater manipulator technology for portable Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). 

Reach Robotics has been working with allied militaries to help develop the future of expeditionary intervention. The Reach X, a power-dense, compact manipulator, will revolutionize subsea operations by enabling portable ROVs to carry out tasks previously reserved for human divers.

With the rapid miniaturization of technology in the past decade, portable ROVs have burst onto the scene offering advanced navigation and sensing capabilities in a one- or two-person deployable package. 

However, their ability to intervene has always been limited and so human divers are still needed to complete tasks such as manipulating, cutting, or untangling a line, attaching a hook, or retrieving and placing objects in precise locations.  

The problem is that existing robotic arm systems either lack dexterity or are too bulky and heavy to provide a useful capability to military operators. Further, the control systems are often primitive or complex and uncomfortable; control systems that aren’t intuitive fall out of favour and consequently use by operators. This renders a significant robotics investment wasted. 

Five years of collaboration with US and Australian DoD operators has provided the insight Reach Robotics needed to address these shortfalls through the release of the Reach X. 

Making underwater robotic arms presents challenges. Within the design of any Reach Robotics product resides the lessons learnt and expertise gained from seven years of innovation and real-world deployments in the Defence and Offshore Energy sectors. 

The Reach X is a new manipulator, but it draws on the track record of manufacturing excellence that comes from building, testing, and shipping almost 1000 systems to date. 

Reach Robotics is proud to launch the Reach X Advanced Intervention System and excited to work with existing and new clients as they push the boundaries of what’s possible with remote intervention in 2024.  

“In 2023, human divers still have to go into harm’s way to deal with a variety of underwater threats. That’s a problem. Reach Robotics has the power to be part of the solution, and so we created the Reach X to provide a useful step-change in capability to the Clearance Diver and Mine Warfare community,” said Anders Ridley-Smith, Director of Business Development at Reach Robotics.

Posted by Abi Wylie Edited by Abigail Wylie, Editor and Copywriter experienced in digital media with a keen interest in ocean science technology. Connect & Contact

Latest Articles

Profile Spotlight: MetOcean Telematics & Maritime Satellite Communications

OST is helping MetOcean Telematics showcase its satellite communications and telemetry solutions, supporting marine industries like research, fisheries, and environmental monitoring

Feb 12, 2025
Understanding Deep Trekker’s BRIDGE Technology for Reliable ROV Control

Deep Trekker explains how its BRIDGE technology integrates hardware and software to enhance ROV operations, providing seamless communication between the vehicle, its controller, and third-party sensors

Feb 12, 2025
Actisense Enhances NMEA 2000 System Monitoring with New Features

Actisense has introduced new interface updates, including improved navigation, real-time NMEA data viewing, enhanced logging, network mapping, and simplified data routing for better system diagnostics and management

Feb 12, 2025
Iridium Certus® GMDSS Enhances Global Maritime Communications & Safety

Iridium Communications is launching the Iridium Certus® GMDSS, a comprehensive maritime safety and communication service that delivers global distress alerting, safety voice, and MSI capabilities through a single terminal

Feb 11, 2025
The Evolution of Maritime Autonomous Systems

Greenroom Robotics outlines the development of maritime autonomous systems, from basic autopilot functions to AI-driven platforms that significantly reduce human intervention

Feb 11, 2025
SubC Imaging Extends Maritime Reach with New Partnership

SubC Imaging’s new partnership with Dockstr, a provider of equipment solutions to the marine industries, is set to expand its reach to clients across the construction, renewables, marine, ocean science, and oil and gas sectors

Feb 10, 2025

Featured Content

Case Study: Trimble Applanix Technology Powers Hydrographic Surveys

In this case study, SEP Hydrographic Limited opted for Trimble Applanix technology to enhance its asset inspections, employing high-resolution 3D scanning for superior data quality above and below the waterline

Feb 10, 2025
Charles River to Develop MAGNETO Submarine Detection System for U.S. Navy

Charles River Analytics is set to develop its MAGNETO submarine detection system for the U.S. Navy, leveraging magnetic signals to to detect stealthier and quieter submarines

Feb 04, 2025
Teledyne Marine’s Slocum Gliders Enhance Conservation Efforts in the Roseway Basin

Researchers have deployed Teledyne Marine’s Slocum gliders in the Roseway Basin to detect and track marine mammals in near-real-time, enhancing conservation efforts through advanced acoustic monitoring technology

Feb 04, 2025