Norco was engaged by XOCEAN, a leading operator of uncrewed surface vessels, to support the build of its next generation survey vessel, now successfully delivered.
The vessel was designed and developed by XOCEAN, with Norco providing manufacturing expertise in lightweight resin infused composite structures, critical to achieving a weight efficient, high performance platform.
Building on XOCEAN’s established uncrewed technology platform, Norco brought its expertise in design for manufacture, tool design, and material selection to optimise production from the outset.
As part of the programme, XOCEAN also engaged naval architect Rockabill Marine Design, with regular coordination across all parties ensuring an efficient and aligned delivery process.
The scope included composite structural assembly and first fix outfitting, with opportunities identified during the build to further enhance production efficiency.
Insights from the initial build phase have been incorporated into ongoing production, with the second vessel now complete and a third in build as the fleet moves into series manufacture.
James Ives, CEO of XOCEAN, said:
“We are very grateful to Norco and Rockabill Marine Design for the expertise they brought to this project across composite manufacturing and naval architecture. The successful delivery of this vessel marks an important step forward for XOCEAN as we scale our fleet. Following the recent launch of our XO-580 NextGen USV at Oceanology International in London, we look forward to continuing to build out the fleet over the coming months and years.”