Fugro Deploys AUV Technology for Deepwater Survey Off Timor-Leste

Fugro has secured a contract to conduct an extensive offshore site characterisation programme off Timor-Leste, deploying autonomous underwater vehicles across water depths exceeding 3,000 metres. The survey will support planning and development of energy infrastructure associated with the Greater Sunrise and Bayu Undan projects, both central to the country's energy ambitions. Offshore operations are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026 and run for approximately three months, delivering seabed intelligence to inform pipeline routing, engineering design and geohazard assessment.

 

Scope of the Survey Programme

 

The contract covers an extensive offshore site characterisation effort. Fugro will undertake geophysical, seismic and autonomous underwater vehicle surveys. The work spans a challenging offshore environment off Timor-Leste. The survey area includes deepwater sections with depths exceeding 3,000 metres. These conditions place significant technical demands on the survey operation.

The programme is designed to generate comprehensive subsea intelligence. It will provide detailed seabed data alongside geotechnical insights. This information will support pipeline routing decisions across the development areas. It will also inform engineering design and geohazard assessment. Together these outputs underpin the safe execution of future offshore operations.

 

The Greater Sunrise and Bayu Undan Projects

 

The survey supports two projects central to Timor-Leste's energy plans. The programme relates to the Greater Sunrise and Bayu Undan developments. Both are described as strategically important to the country's future energy ambitions. The survey will cover both development areas within a single campaign. This coordinated approach allows consistent data across the region.

These projects represent significant infrastructure undertakings for the nation. Developing offshore energy resources requires detailed knowledge of seabed conditions. Accurate site characterisation is a prerequisite for engineering and installation work. The survey therefore forms a foundational step in the development process. Its outputs will shape decisions taken throughout the projects' lifecycles.

 

Technology and Remote Support

 

The programme relies on advanced autonomous survey capability. Fugro will deploy autonomous underwater vehicles across the survey area. These systems are well suited to gathering high-resolution data at extreme depths. The vehicles can operate effectively where conventional methods face limitations. This makes them central to surveying beyond 3,000 metres.

The technology is paired with onshore support infrastructure. Fugro will integrate the vehicles with real-time support from its Remote Operations Centres. This arrangement enhances operational efficiency during the campaign. It also improves data quality and strengthens project oversight. Combining autonomous vehicles with remote monitoring reflects a wider shift in offshore survey practice.

 

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Data Processing and Delivery

 

Survey data will be handled through established regional facilities. Processing and quality control will take place at Fugro's data centres. These are located in Kuala Lumpur and Perth within the Asia Pacific region. This regional infrastructure supports streamlined project delivery. It reduces the delay between data collection and analysis.

The approach is intended to accelerate the flow of information to clients. Processing regionally enables timely provision of high-quality insights. These insights support informed decision-making throughout project development. Faster turnaround allows engineering teams to respond to findings promptly. This connection between data gathering and practical decisions defines the programme's value.

 

Timeline and Execution

 

The project follows a defined schedule through 2026. Mobilisation and planning activities are expected to commence in the third quarter. Offshore survey operations are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter. The offshore campaign is expected to run for approximately three months. This timeline sets a clear framework for the work ahead.

The campaign encompasses several distinct survey disciplines. It will include geophysical, seismic and autonomous underwater vehicle activities. Environmental survey work also forms part of the scope. These activities will cover both development areas within the single campaign. Combining disciplines in one mobilisation improves overall efficiency.

 

Regional Position and Significance

 

The award reinforces Fugro's standing in the regional market. Company leadership said it reflects client confidence in executing complex offshore programmes. This confidence extends to work in challenging marine environments. The company combines geophysical, seismic and autonomous technologies with regional expertise. This combination is presented as central to delivering the required data.

The project strengthens the company's position across Asia Pacific. It reinforces Fugro's role as a leading provider of marine site characterisation services. The work supports clients with reliable data for safer project delivery. It also contributes to more sustainable and efficient offshore development. This positions the company for further work across the region's energy sector.