Kongsberg Maritime, Seadrill, Hanwha Drilling to Develop Remote Dynamic Positioning Technology

Why It Matters

Remote DP could transform offshore drilling by reducing on‑site staffing needs and improving safety, positioning the consortium as a standard‑setter in a high‑growth market.

Key Takeaways

• Kongsberg provides automation and communications tech.
• Seadrill and Hanwha bring offshore drilling expertise.
• Remote DP aims to cut crew cognitive load.
• Initiative targets new safety and efficiency standards.
• Regulatory framework will be co‑developed for global adoption.

Pulse Analysis

The offshore drilling sector has long relied on on‑board Dynamic Positioning crews to keep rigs stable in harsh environments. Recent advances in sensor fusion, low‑latency communications, and AI‑driven control loops now make remote DP a realistic alternative. By shifting the decision‑making hub to shore‑based centers, operators can leverage larger data sets, apply predictive analytics, and respond faster to changing sea conditions, ultimately reducing downtime and operational risk.

Kongsberg Maritime brings a mature suite of automation hardware and secure maritime networking, while Seadrill and Hanwha contribute decades of rig‑level experience and access to a global fleet. This triad creates a vertically integrated development pipeline: Kongsberg designs the remote control architecture, Seadrill pilots the system on its jack‑up rigs, and Hanwha validates performance across deep‑water projects. The collaboration not only accelerates technology rollout but also signals to investors that the offshore industry is embracing digital transformation to stay competitive.

Beyond technology, the alliance is tackling the regulatory vacuum that has slowed remote DP adoption. By working with classification societies and maritime authorities, the partners aim to codify safety protocols, certification pathways, and data‑security standards. Establishing a unified industry framework could lower entry barriers for other operators, fostering a broader ecosystem of remote‑controlled rigs. As energy markets pivot toward lower‑carbon offshore solutions, this remote DP model may become a cornerstone for cost‑effective, safer drilling operations worldwide.