North Sea Systems Expanded CableFish Platform
The robotics firm added shallow-water capabilities to support fiber-optic and HVDC cable installation projects.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Robotics
Live Poll
Do you trust that new monitoring technologies effectively reduce risks during major infrastructure installation projects?
North Sea Systems has enhanced its CableFish robotics platform to operate in water depths as shallow as 15 meters. The update introduces precise positioning tools designed to improve efficiency for offshore cable installation contractors.
Why it matters
Conventional acoustic positioning systems often struggle in shallow environments, leading to higher installation risks. These updates aim to mitigate those challenges by providing real-time visual feedback and improved location accuracy.
The updated configuration supports cable diameters ranging from 20 mm to 100 mm. It integrates a GNSS positioning pod mounted directly on the CableFish Survey Head for accurate touchdown tracking.
The players
North Sea Systems
This robotics firm specializes in developing advanced offshore technology solutions for subsea cable installation and surveying.
The details
The platform now includes CableViewer, a tool that provides real-time graphical displays of cable positions against defined installation parameters. Additionally, the company has developed a larger CableFish variant specifically to support bundled HVDC cable installation requirements.
Timeline
North Sea Systems announced the platform enhancements on October 6, 2026.
The Tech Race
This move signals a strategic shift toward GNSS-integrated robotics to overcome the performance limitations of legacy USBL acoustic positioning systems in shallow water. It positions North Sea Systems to better compete for specialized contracts in increasingly complex offshore energy and telecommunications environments.
Offshore contractors and installation teams gain more reliable tools for project execution in coastal areas. These advancements reduce the likelihood of cable positioning errors, which can lead to costly delays and maintenance work for subsea infrastructure projects.
The takeaway
Reliable data visualization and positioning tools are essential for the growing demands of global subsea cable infrastructure. Offshore companies should prioritize systems that offer real-time adjustment capabilities to minimize operational risks in varying depths.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in subsea deployment by visiting our Robotics section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Ocean News & Technology.
Live Poll
Do you trust that new monitoring technologies effectively reduce risks during major infrastructure installation projects?
