Researchers at the REC "Russian Arctic" (created on the basis of three northern regions of Russia) presented an unmanned vessel (marine drone) that can be used for research in the Arctic. This was announced by the scientific director of the center, Marat Eseev.

The drone is a vessel up to 6 m long, driven by a screw engine or a water jet system. Its hull is made of low-pressure polyethylene, as this material is not susceptible to corrosion.

The vessel can carry cargo and monitor the environment at a distance of up to 500 miles (804.6 km) from the base. The development of the REC "Russian Arctic" can be used for military purposes and for civilian initiatives.

According to Eseev, the intelligent filling of the unmanned vessel allows it to operate autonomously. Movement is carried out thanks to laser rangefinders-lidars, they help the marine drone to bypass obstacles and adjust the course.

In addition, the vessel can be controlled by an operator, communication with it is provided by an antenna installed on board. To increase the signal range, the launch of auxiliary relay vessels is provided.

Equipment for meteorology and monitoring can be placed on the drone, including thermometers, sensors for wind speed and direction, and meters for the salinity of sea water.

Earlier www1.ru wrote that Sakhalin presented a Kalan unmanned hydrographic drone for monitoring water resources.