Ned Marine launches flying drone and subsea ROV inspection services for Non-Destructive Testing

Ned Marine has expanded its inspection capabilities with the launch of new drone and remotely operated vehicle (ROV) services designed to support faster, safer, and more efficient non-destructive testing (NDT) inspections across maritime, offshore, and industrial sectors.

The new offering enables inspections both above and below water, including confined spaces, and further strengthens the company’s position as a full-service inspection provider by combining traditional NDT methods with advanced remote inspection technologies.

Already active in vessel inspections worldwide, Ned Marine’s latest services are targeted at customers across the Netherlands and the wider European market.

Faster Inspections and Reduced Downtime

Drone-based inspections allow the company to conduct visual inspections and Ultrasonic Thickness Measurements (UTM) in locations that are difficult to access using conventional methods such as scaffolding, rope access, or diving operations.

Typical applications include:

• Confined spaces aboard vessels, including ballast tanks and cargo holds
• Offshore and onshore wind turbines
• Tank storage facilities
• Industrial structures and installations

By reducing the need for extensive access equipment and limiting personnel exposure to hazardous environments, drone inspections can significantly reduce inspection times, in many cases from several days to just a few hours. This can help minimise operational downtime, particularly for container ships and tankers operating on tight schedules.

According to the company, inspection durations can be reduced by up to four times compared with traditional inspection approaches, while also lowering overall operational costs.

Subsea Inspections up to 300 Metres

In addition to aerial inspection services, Ned Marine now offers subsea NDT inspections using ROVs capable of operating at depths of up to 300 metres.

The technology provides a practical and cost-efficient alternative to conventional diving operations and delivers high-definition live video feeds alongside detailed inspection data.

The subsea inspection services support:

• Hull inspections
• Cathodic protection assessments
• Structural condition monitoring
• Pre-docking surveys

Leo Zwagemaker, commercial manager at Ned Marine, said the introduction of aerial drone and ROV technology enables clients to reduce downtime while improving maintenance planning and operational decision-making.

He also noted that the ability for inspectors to work remotely with real-time access to inspection data enhances collaboration between vessel operators, surveyors, and technical teams around the world.

Integrated Digital NDT Approach

The newly launched drone and ROV services are fully integrated into the company’s broader NDT portfolio, which includes Visual Testing (VT), Ultrasonic Thickness Measurements (UTM), and detailed inspection reporting.

By combining visual inspection data, measurement analysis, and digital reporting tools, Ned Marine aims to provide clients with a more comprehensive understanding of asset condition, supporting proactive maintenance strategies and reducing the risk of unexpected operational failures.

For more information visit www.nedmarine.com