Underwater drones

Underwater drones certainly are handy for inspecting things like boat hulls and fish farm nets, but they can often be relatively large, complex devices that cost a few thousand bucks. Such is not the case with the simple li'l BentiX, however.

Pharaohs had round-the-clock guards over their tombs. Today, some of the world’s most vital infrastructure sits on the seabed with far less attention, mostly because adequate tech doesn't exist. Researchers are now developing a permanent subsea guard.

It was nine years ago that we told you about the intriguing Pioneer mini-ROV (underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle), made by Norway's Blueye Robotics. Well, it's now got not one but two more capable siblings, in the forms of the ocean-exploring X3 Ultra and X7.

Back in 2019, Chasing Innovation introduced the world's least expensive underwater drone, the Dory. The Chinese company is now offering a new version that comes complete with a joystick remote, metal detector and treasure-collecting net.

The Chasing X brings a new form factor to mini ROVs, looking a bit like a submersible quadcopter. It's designed mainly for the underwater inspection of things like ship hulls and aquaculture operations, although it can also grab stuff if need be.

Canadian firm Deep Trekker is probably best known for its Revolution, a top-of-the-line underwater ROV (remotely operated vehicle). The company is now offering a much smaller, less pricey yet still very capable model, however, called the Photon.

If you're buying an expensive underwater drone, you don't want to have to send it away every time an upgrade or repair is required. Qysea's new FiFish E-GO was designed with that consideration in mind, as it has a unique modular design.

Three years ago we told you about the Chasing F1 Fish Finder Drone, which is basically a little remote-control boat with a lowerable underwater video camera. Well, it now has a more capable younger sibling, in the form of the F1 Pro.

Back in 2019, Chinese manufacturer Youcan Robotics brought us the prosumer-oriented BW Space Pro underwater drone. Well, the company is back with its much higher-spec'd OceanEye model, which is aimed squarely at industrial use.

Whether you call them underwater drones or just small ROVs, high-end miniature remote-control submersibles are definitely gaining popularity. One of the latest and best-outfitted is Qysea's impressive Fifish V-EVO.

Three years ago we heard about Oceanbotics' SRV-8, a small yet highly capable underwater ROV (remotely operated vehicle). Well, it's now got a much burlier bigger sibling, in the form of the SRV-8X Optimus.

While aerial drones can travel long distances quickly, aquatic drones can explore underwater environments. The TJ-FlyingFish offers the best of both worlds, as it's a flying quadcopter that is also able to make its way through the inky depths.