The State Enterprise “Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority” has procured its first drones for the Delta-Pilot branch and ChornomorNDIproekt branch. The use of such technologies forms part of USPA’s systematic efforts to digitalise business processes in ports and improve operational safety.
For the diving service of the Delta-Pilot branch, the enterprise has acquired its first remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV). The system is capable of performing a wide range of underwater technical tasks — from inspecting berths, protective structures, and the underwater sections of vessels to surveying port basin seabeds and taking part in emergency response operations. The underwater drone provides real-time video and photo recording and makes it possible to obtain detailed information without deploying divers in potentially hazardous conditions.
The ChornomorNDIproekt branch has received a drone for engineering inspections of hydraulic structures, including photo and video recording of their condition, monitoring of port infrastructure facilities, and rapid collection of data for further analysis and work planning.
The use of drones makes it possible to automate part of inspection and control processes, accelerate surveys of facilities, and improve the accuracy of recorded results. It also helps optimise operations and reduce the time required to carry them out, thereby lowering risks for personnel working at critical infrastructure sites under the constant threat of shelling.
The Delta-Pilot branch performs diving operations in the waters of the seaports of Odesa, Pivdennyi, Chornomorsk, Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi, Izmail, Reni, and Ust-Dunaisk, as well as on the Danube–Black Sea Deep-Water Navigation Channel. In recent years, the volume of such works has been increasing, including due to emergency situations and heightened risks related to mine danger and the consequences of the war.The acquisition of drones is part of USPA’s systematic work to introduce modern technologies in the port sector. Going forward, the enterprise plans to expand the use of digital and technological solutions that enhance navigational safety, the efficiency of port operations, and the resilience of critical infrastructure. In the longer term, this area will form the basis for implementing USPA’s strategic goals in the development of drone technologies and the establishment of a specialised centre on the basis of one of the enterprise’s branches
