Unique Group has a dynamic and agile range of Uni-USVs built inhouse by its Research and Development (R&D) team. These USVs include the lightweight Uni-Mini, versatile Uni-Pact and the hybrid Uni-Max designed for surveying operations, environmental monitoring and engineered to meet diverse operational needs across challenging environments.

Integrating OPT’s commercially available vehicles with Unique’s leading position in the offshore energy industry in the UAE will accelerate the adoption of USVs in the region. Unique Group’s knowledge of the local industry and footprint in the region enables maintenance and services to be carried out more efficiently.

Jack Dougherty, Global Head of USV at Unique Group, added, “Unique Group is proud to bring our expertise to this collaboration. With our extensive experience and engineering capabilities, we will add new capabilities such as electric drive to the WAM-V USVs. We look forward to this joint development and the opportunities it will create in the GCC region.”

Philipp Stratmann, OPT’s CEO, expressed his enthusiasm about this partnership, stating, “Working with Unique Group will further accelerate our efforts to deploy USVs globally. We are very excited about the prospects of expanding into the UAE and applaud the local industry’s forward-thinking in adopting autonomous technologies.”

Unique Group’s commitment to innovation and excellence, combined with its extensive expertise in subsea technologies and engineering, positions it as a leader in the offshore energy industry. With a robust R&D team and a dynamic range of in-house-developed USVs, Unique Group is well-equipped to deliver advanced, customized solutions that meet the evolving needs of their clients. This partnership with OPT underscores Unique Group’s dedication to expanding its capabilities and providing the region with cutting-edge, efficient, and sustainable technologies.

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Headquartered in the United Arab Emirates, Unique Group has a global workforce of over 600 employees across 18 locations. Renowned over three decades for the company’s excellence in subsea technologies including Survey Equipment, Diving & Life Support, Buoyancy & Water Weights, Unmanned Surface Vessels, and Lifting & Mooring solutions. This new acquisition transforms the UK into a major engineering hub for Unique Group, complementing existing manufacturing locations in South Africa, the Middle East, and Isle of Wight, in the UK.

Subsea Innovation Limited, based in Darlington (UK), which was part of Tekmar Group plc, has a strong global track record of delivering technically complex projects for four decades, excelling in engineering, building and delivering over 450 complex engineered equipment, specializing in offshore deck equipment including launch and recovery systems, engineering consulting, emergency pipeline repair systems and tailored solutions for subsea and renewable solutions. This acquisition fits seamlessly with Unique Group’s offerings, thus significantly boosting the technology growth focus for the Group, along with its ability to provide an integrated package for clients.

Sahil Gandhi, Chief Executive Officer at Unique Group commented: “This acquisition underlines our commitment to innovation and engineering expertise. We have ambitious development plans, along with our existing solutions to our wider customer base. Subsea Innovation’s impressive track record, combined with Unique Group’s strengths, positions us to deliver unparalleled solutions in the dynamic landscape of offshore energy and subsea sectors.”

Dave Thompson, Subsea Innovation’s Managing Director, and his engineering design team, has a wealth of experience in developing leading engineering solutions and products for some of the world’s most challenging environments. Following the acquisition, Thompson will assume the role of Group Engineering Director at Unique Group, bringing his hands-on expertise to steer the company toward new heights in product development and engineering. He added: “We are excited to become a part of Unique Group, and this is a significant leap forward in our journey to redefine industry standards. With the combined technical and commercial synergies of Unique Group and Subsea Innovation, we are poised to significantly grow globally and develop new solutions, that can make subsea operations efficient and safer for clients.”

Unique Group and Subsea Innovation are positive about the prospects this strategic acquisition brings and together, they look forward to charting new standards in the global subsea industry.

View the Subsea Innovation range to get to know our extended portfolio.

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The agreement, for the delivery of cNODE Transponders, µPAP SSBL systems and the recently launched EM2042 multibeam echo sounder (MBES), allows Unique to boost its state-of-the-art subsea equipment rental pool, satisfying increasing market demand for innovations capable of unlocking the secrets of the seafloor.

Empowering Success

 Unique Group, a global leader in subsea technology rental, sales and services, has an established relationship with Kongsberg Discovery, stocking a broad range of the Norwegian-headquartered company’s proven oceanographic equipment.

 The latest order, confirmed at Oceanology International in London, will swell the capacity of Unique’s Singapore base, giving customers in South East Asia fresh access to the calibration-free µPAP SSBL systems and the lightweight, robust and user-friendly EM2042, launched in September 2023.

As Sahil Gandhi, CEO, Unique Group, explains, the breakthrough MBES, created to deliver optimal seabed data gathering in remote, challenging environments, is exactly the kind of technology Unique’s ambitious customers require.

Quality Counts

He comments: “The EM2042 multibeam systems will support the demand for both standalone rental and for installation on Unique’s Uni-Max USV for seabed mapping and hydrographic surveys. The EM2042 offers a quad-swathe high ping rate and predictive pitch for beam steering, allowing for increased productivity as higher survey speeds can be achieved without reducing data quality. 

“This combination of the Kongsberg EM2042 and Uni-Max USV provides the absolutely highest quality data, with great operational functionality and efficiency for our growing customer base.” 

Ocean Intelligence

Spencer Collins, VP Sales, Kongsberg Discovery, adds: “The demand for high-specification underwater positioning and mapping technology reflects a burgeoning market, with a range of segments eager to enable the sustainable management, monitoring and development of the ocean space.

“With Unique’s track record of domain success, they’re often the first call for customers eager to utilise cutting edge technology, helping them achieve the highest quality data and powerful operational efficiencies. We’re delighted to support them in this mission with the latest acoustic positioning and mapping systems.” 

Proven Results

Kongsberg Digital’s cNODE family of transponders are market proven medium frequency units for highly accurate underwater acoustic positioning and data links, while µPAP is a small and compact acoustic positioning system for tracking ROV’s, tow fish, divers and any other subsea target at ranges up to several thousand metres.

The EM2042 has made a significant market impact since launch, winning praise for its lightweight construction (60% lighter than the EM 2040), easy handling, efficiency, durability, and excellent ‘clean’ data acquisition.

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This strategic multi-million-dollar investment and expansion initiative signifies a pivotal milestone for Unique Group, following years of unwavering collaboration with key partners such as Aramco, NEOM, National Center for Wildlife (NCW), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information (GEOSA) and Red Sea Global, both directly and through contractual engagements. Aligned seamlessly with the Kingdom’s 2030 vision for growth and development, Unique Group’s enhanced presence in the Saudi Arabia underscores its commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that propel the local industry forward.

This endeavor seeks to bolster the objectives of the “Made in Saudi Arabia” initiative, which is geared towards bringing the production and assembly of Unique Group’s distinctive subsea technologies and engineering to the local forefront. By doing so, it not only fosters job localization but also positions Dammam as a pivotal hub for the industry.
Notably, 50% of the manufacturing and assembly of air dive systems, power packs, and scuba replacement units will be completed in Saudi Arabia, resulting in a minimum of 40% local workforce utilization.

Occupying a substantial area of 2,000 square meters, the newly inaugurated facility is equipped to handle a diverse range of equipment, including survey tools, unmanned surface vessels (USVs), diving and life support solutions, buoyancy and Water Weights equipment available for both sale and rental. Moreover, the facility extends its offerings to encompass lifting and mooring products and services, the first of its kind in the region. Under the umbrella of lifting and mooring, the facility is poised to offer calibration and servicing for leading brands, bolstering the availability of cutting-edge technology within the local market. It also hosts Saudi Arabia’s largest dynamic winch test bed with a static pull capacity of 600 tons and a dynamic live load test capability of up to 40 tons.

Sahil Gandhi, Chief Executive Officer of Unique Group, commented, “The strategic expansion of our operations in Saudi Arabia signifies a pivotal moment for Unique Group, as we introduce the Lifting and Mooring Solutions division and initiate the local assembly of diving equipment. This initiative underscores our unwavering commitment to addressing the distinctive requirements of our clientele in the region.”

The establishment of the state-of-the-art workshop in Dammam serves as a tangible demonstration of Unique Group’s dedication to cultivating robust partnerships with esteemed collaborators in the region. Noteworthy is the fact that this facility sets an industry benchmark, offering a comprehensive turnkey solutions package that is unparalleled in its rarity.

Gandhi further affirmed, “We are confident that these strategic initiatives will significantly elevate our support to clients in Saudi Arabia, enabling us to address their challenges comprehensively through the delivery of high-quality products, integrated services, and cost-effective solutions. This milestone not only marks a pivotal moment in the continual advancement of our company but also contributes to the growth and prosperity of the Kingdom.”

Unique Group boasts a two-decade-long collaboration with prominent governmental authorities, universities, and marine hydrographic survey organizations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). These enduring partnerships have been cultivated through the successful execution of large-scale projects, serving as the cornerstone for pioneering developments in the Red Sea region and NEOM.

Unique Group was a successful partner with General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information (GEOSA), where some members of GEOSA emphasize the significance of this collaboration, stating, “Unique Group has been a longstanding partner for our projects. Their unwavering commitment to excellence and cutting-edge technology has been pivotal in several of our successful work initiatives. We appreciate Unique Group’s dedication, expertise, and the high-quality solutions they consistently provide, contributing significantly to the advancement of our marine business and geospatial information objectives.

The strategic investment in this cutting-edge facility is underscored by key partnerships and alignment with the Saudi Vision 2030 – reinforcing Unique Group’s commitment to enhancing local capabilities and technological innovation. The facility reflects its dedication to delivering top-notch solutions in harmony with the Kingdom’s aspirations for diversified growth.
Looking ahead, Unique Group remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing local talent, contributing to economic prosperity, and advancing technological frontiers within the vibrant community of Dammam.

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The new addition of these USVs further enhances Unique Group’s USV fleet as the company can now provide clients with specific USVs ranging from small, medium and large sizes based on project applications. The Uni-Mini USV is an economical, compact and lightweight vehicle that can be effortlessly operated by just two people, ensuring quick and hassle-free deployment. It has been specifically engineered for shallow water surveys, offering an unprecedented level of convenience and versatility. With the ability to integrate seamlessly with a wide range of transducers and GPS systems, the Uni-Mini can execute various survey tasks with minimal effort and manpower.

The Uni-Max USV incorporates a Hybrid Power System, integrating a generator with a diesel tank and solar PV cells. This new addition significantly extends operational capabilities, enabling prolonged missions in remote or demanding terrains. This advanced USV is designed to allow surveying in locations and situations where deploying conventional platforms proves impracticable. Featuring two Torqeedo Cruise 6.0RS Engines with Hydraulic Steering, the Uni-Max ensures unparalleled performance and manoeuvrability.

Unique Group’s Uni-Mini USV has already made significant strides in the market, having been deployed on key projects in the Middle East for shallow water bathymetric surveying. In collaboration with a prominent EPC company, the Uni-Mini has delivered outstanding survey results, showcasing its efficiency and reliability in real-world applications.

As Unique Group celebrates its 30-year anniversary this year, this milestone is marked by increased Research and Development (R&D) efforts across all its divisions and multi-million-dollar CAPEX investments to further enhance its portfolio of survey equipment globally.

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Aquila Subsea marks a monumental leap forward as the first-ever generative AI chat solution tailored specifically for the subsea survey industry. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, Unique Group is delivering an unparalleled value addition to survey engineers and researchers, facilitating rapid resolution of technical challenges. With its comprehensive repository of manuals, data sheets, and manufacturer’s information, the AI platform guarantees precise and reliable solutions for queries of all complexities, providing access to a Knowledge Repository with over 10,000 Survey Equipment solutions.

“It’s with immense pride that we introduce Aquila to the subsea industry,” said Sahil Gandhi, CEO of Unique Group. “As relentless innovators, we are committed to pioneering technologies that redefine industry norms. Aquila showcases our dedication to bringing cutting-edge solutions to our customers, enabling them to elevate their operations and make informed decisions swiftly.”

Developed entirely in-house by Unique Group’s Research and Development Team,  Aquila stands as a testament to the organization’s prowess in driving innovation. This AI solution promises to streamline operations, boost efficiency, and enhance overall productivity for survey engineers, researchers, and industry professionals.

One of the standout features of Aquila Subsea is its extensive and meticulously curated database, encompassing a wealth of technical resources. By drawing on this repository, the AI-driven platform provides precise solutions tailored to the specific queries posed by users. The technology ensures that technical hurdles are surmounted in a matter of seconds, reducing downtime and significantly contributing to cost savings, while elevating operational efficiency to unprecedented levels.

To mark this pivotal moment in the subsea survey industry, Unique Group is excited to announce that limited signups to access Aquila Subsea are now open. This exclusive opportunity allows industry professionals to be among the first to experience the transformative potential of this game-changing technology. Register under www.aquilasubsea.ai

As Unique Group continues to lead the charge in technological innovation, Aquila Subsea stands as a testament to their commitment to driving progress within the subsea sector. With its ability to provide swift, accurate, and insightful solutions, Aquila Subsea is poised to reshape the way survey engineers approach their work and ultimately redefine industry standards.

The post Unique Group Unveils Revolutionary Aquila Subsea-The Subsea Industry’s First Generative AI Chat Solution appeared first on Unique Group.

By working closely with OSC Marine, Unique Group developed a tailored Nitrox commercial diving system that surpasses industry standards. The system’s ABS design, manufacturing, and testing witness provide unparalleled quality assurance, ensuring robustness and reliability in demanding offshore environments. Furthermore, compliance with the latest IMCA guidelines demonstrates Unique Group’s commitment to adhering to the highest safety protocols.

Leveraging the highest level of technology and components, including the renowned NUVAIR Voyager IV nitrox generator, this bespoke system is engineered to prioritise safe operations. The inclusion of the NUVAIR Voyager IV nitrox generator further exemplifies the advanced technological capabilities of the delivered system. This state-of-the-art equipment enhances operational efficiency and ensures the safety of divers, enabling OSC Marine to achieve superior outcomes in its offshore endeavours.

Upon receiving the fully bespoke Nitrox commercial diving system, Mike Jessop, OSC Marine Group CEO, conveyed their appreciation, stating, “We are thrilled to have received such a high-end, quality system from Unique Group. Their unwavering commitment to excellence and attention to detail throughout the design and delivery process has been exceptional. This bespoke solution met our requirements for delivery, quality, and robustness. “

Rodney McKechnie, VP-Diving and Life Support at Unique Group added: “We are delighted to have worked closely with OSC Marine to deliver this fully bespoke Nitrox commercial diving system. Our collaboration and shared commitment to innovation and safety have resulted in a system that surpasses expectations. This delivery signifies our dedication to providing cutting-edge solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. We look forward to continuing our partnership with OSC Marine and supporting their future endeavours.”

Unique Group’s relentless pursuit of innovation and customer satisfaction has established them as a leading provider of diving and subsea solutions worldwide. With a diverse range of advanced products and a steadfast focus on excellence, Unique Group continues to set new industry benchmarks and create exceptional value for its clients.

In the cover image, from (L-R) Jaco Bester, Project Manager at Unique Group, Andre Basson, Project Manager at OSC Marine Group and Andrew Laing, Director: Creation – Diving + Life Support and Business Development – Africa at Unique Group, with the newly delivered bespoke Nitrox dive system.

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The development of the Uni-Winch Mini offers the USV marketplace a small footprint, low weight, remotely operated winch (web interface & API), suitable for USV operations. The system is the culmination of 12 months’ detailed development work where Hybrid Robotics have re-developed its system to meet Unique Group’s needs.

The Uni-Winch Mini comes with a low weight of 20kg, making it highly portable and easy to use in different environments. It has a small footprint (605mm x D 220 x H 255mm) that allows for convenient storage and transportation. With a tether capacity of 4mm (0.16”) x 350m – 7.6mm (0.3”) x 100m and a tether range of 4-13mm, this system is versatile enough to cater to different tethering needs. It also features a drum diameter of 75mm and a spool speed of up to 25rpm, allowing for smooth and seamless operation. Additionally, the system comes equipped with a slipring and level wind, further enhancing its functionality.

Chris Blake, Vice President Survey added: “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Hybrid Robotics Inc. and the development of the innovative Uni-Winch Mini. This compact new product has been designed and manufactured to enhance USV and small boat operations globally. At Unique Group, we are constantly working towards building efficient and sustainable solutions, the Uni-Winch Mini is the result of detailed development work, and we look forward to supporting both our in-house and third party USV operations with this game-changing technology.”

Unique Group has an exclusive international sales and rental distribution agreement with Hybrid Robotics Inc. and will place systems in strategic locations to support both in-house and third party USVs.

Hybrid Robotics CEO Paul Klug said: “. It was great to see the response from the industry when we introduced our Tether Management System at the Ocean’s Business trade show in Southampton. We believe that our innovative solution will play a crucial role in transforming how underwater operations are conducted, making them more efficient, safer, and more cost-effective for various industries, including oil and gas, defense, and oceanographic research.”

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Acting as Unique Group’s COO since 2017, Sahil has previously held Executive Director and Group Sales Manager roles. Under his leadership, the company has experienced rapid growth, diversifying its portfolio into unmanned survey technology and initiating digitisation that led the business to operational excellence, as well as renewing its commitment towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG).

Harry Gandhi, Chairman of Unique Group, founded the company in 1993 with three employees, turning it into a thriving multinational organization with over 500 employees today. Harry Gandhi expressed his confidence in Sahil’s ability to lead the company into the future, stating, “Over the years, Sahil has been instrumental in shaping Unique Group to become a leader in providing comprehensive technical and digital solutions for the subsea, renewable, and wider energy industries, with a continued focus on sustainability. Sahil’s appointment heralds the beginning of a new era for Unique Group, and I’m confident that his expertise, passion, and ambition will steer the company towards new heights.”

Upon assuming his new role, Sahil Gandhi expressed his commitment to building on the company’s legacy and positioning Unique Group as a frontrunner in providing subsea innovation for clients. He emphasised his dedication to innovation and transforming the industry by developing new products across various divisions, including survey, unmanned solutions, diving, buoyancy, and load testing.

Unique Group has already made significant strides in its growth strategy, with technical appointments in the first quarter and major development plans in the pipeline. The company is set to launch key products under its Unmanned Surface Vessel portfolio, expand its global facilities, and introduce new divisions throughout the second quarter and the remainder of the year. To support its ambitious plans, Unique Group has made multimillion-dollar investments in autonomous research and development programs and digitisation initiatives.

With Sahil Gandhi at the helm, Unique Group is poised to achieve even greater success and drive innovation in the subsea technology sector. The company’s continued commitment to excellence and its dedication to providing cutting-edge solutions will solidify its position as a leader in the industry.

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With over 30 years of experience, Unique Group’s Water Weights brand are the originators of the water-filled proof load bags which are used widely for a range of applications, including crane load testing, structural load testing, and lifeboat testing.

Safespear is a Supply Nation certified, Aboriginal-owned business which supplies world class safety solutions for a broad range of sectors in Western Australia, Queensland and the Northern Territory. Their facility in Darwin will house a full range of our Water Weights load testing bags for immediate hire and full turnkey service from April 2023. Creating opportunities for Aboriginal people in local, regional and remote regions is a strong focus for the organization.

Commenting on the partnership, Sahil Gandhi, CEO of Unique Group, said: “We are delighted to partner with Safespear and support local Aboriginal businesses in the Northern Territory. At Unique Group, we are committed to working with diverse suppliers and expanding our reach in Australia. This partnership with Safespear enables us to offer our high-quality load testing solutions to the region’s industrial and energy sectors while also creating meaningful opportunities for Aboriginal people in the local, regional, and remote areas. We take pride in supporting the local economy and are excited about the possibilities this partnership holds.”

Safespear Chairman, Barry McGuire, added:
“We are delighted to offer Unique Group’s Water Weights brand of load testing bags in Australia, these products will be a great addition to the range of services we offer here. Our teams will be trained to handle the load testing services in-house and with the inventory of equipment in our facility, we are well placed to cater to client requirements from April 2023. We look forward to working with Unique Group for a successful business relationship.”

This partnership is part of Unique Group’s ongoing commitment to expanding its global footprint and providing innovative solutions to new markets. With the addition of Safespear as an agent in the Northern Territory of Australia, Unique Group is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for load testing solutions in the region.

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