The French hydrographic and oceanographic service, Shom, has expanded its autonomous survey capabilities with the addition of Exail’s DriX H‑9 Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV).
The new vessel joins Shom’s existing DriX H‑8 platform, enhancing the agency’s ability to conduct long-endurance hydrographic surveys in coastal and offshore waters.
The DriX H‑9 is designed for missions lasting up to 20 days, enabling extended data collection without the need for crewed support.
It is equipped with advanced navigation systems, sensors, and autonomy features, allowing Shom to conduct precision hydrographic surveys safely and efficiently, while reducing operational costs and human resource requirements.
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A notable feature of the DriX H‑9 is its ability to operate in tandem with Shom’s manned hydrographic vessels or independently from shore-based control, providing flexibility for multi-mission deployment.
This capability supports the agency’s goals of producing high-resolution seabed maps, monitoring coastal and offshore environments, and enhancing navigational safety.
Shom’s adoption of the DriX H‑9 reflects a broader industry trend toward autonomous surface vessels for maritime data collection, demonstrating how USVs are becoming an integral part of national hydrographic, environmental, and maritime safety operations.
By leveraging Exail’s USV technology, Shom aims to expand survey coverage, improve data quality, and maintain operational continuity under challenging sea and weather conditions — an approach increasingly mirrored by hydrographic agencies and commercial operators worldwide.
For more information:
Exail – https://www.exail.com/
Shom – https://www.shom.fr/en
