Here it is: "The newest and most advanced" robo-boat in the world. It sure looks the part.
Unveiled this month at IDEX 2007 in Abu Dhabi, the Marine Robotics Vessels International (MRVI) Interceptor is a fourth-generation unmanned surface vessel. Project partner SeaRobotics provided the command, control, navigation and data-acquisition system, which allows both remote control by radio and autonomous operation. In autonomous mode, an onboard computer will steer the rig on a pre-determined course to complete its programmed mission. Onboard sensors allow the craft to change course to avoid collisions.
Applications range from anti-piracy patrol to oil rig surveillance.
That rooster tail is courtesy a 266-horsepower Steyr multi-fuel diesel engine with Hamilton water jet propulsor.