Alewijnse, a leading provider of electrical and automation systems for the maritime industry, is at the forefront of autonomous sailing technology, playing a key role in the Fieldlab Autonomous Sailing Technology (F.A.S.T.) project.
The F.A.S.T. project focuses on transforming a 1990-built Damen Stan Patrol 900 into a remotely operated test vessel in the Port of Vlissingen. This ambitious initiative aims to revolutionize ship operations by integrating advanced technologies such as cameras, sensors, radar, Lidar, GPS, and wind and speed measurement instruments. These cutting-edge technologies will effectively replace the traditional role of a helmsman, paving the way for autonomous sailing capabilities.
“It’s best to use an existing vessel as a test model,” says Eef Uittenbogaard, project manager at Alewijnse. “This approach allows us to experiment with real-world applications and determine the most effective solutions for autonomous sailing in practice.”
The F.A.S.T. project is a collaborative effort involving Damen Naval, the Province of Zeeland, the Municipality of Vlissingen, HZ University of Applied Sciences, TU Delft, and other key partners.
Beyond autonomous sailing, Alewijnse is actively advancing other innovative technologies within the maritime sector. The company is a leader in developing and implementing electric and hybrid propulsion systems for superyachts and naval vessels. Furthermore, Alewijnse is actively exploring the use of alternative fuels, such as hydrogen, methanol, and LNG, to support sustainability goals within the maritime industry.
As the maritime industry moves towards a more autonomous and sustainable future, Alewijnse continues to play a crucial role in driving innovation and shaping the future of maritime operations.
