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The European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) has awarded Martek Marine a €16,500,000 framework contract for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) services specifically focused on ship emissions monitoring using drones equipped with gas sensors for SO2, CO2, NOx, electro-optical, infrared imaging, and AIS detection. EMSA procures these services to enhance environmental surveillance capabilities, support Member States in marine pollution detection and emissions compliance enforcement, and provide multipurpose RPAS operations in maritime environments as part of a broader €67 million five-year strategy for coastguard monitoring. The drones operate beyond visual line of sight up to 50km offshore, withstand harsh maritime conditions, and enable real-time data streaming for prompt decision-making by EU member states.
RPAS-based sulfur compliance monitoring. Drones measure ship exhaust to verify IMO 2020 regulations.
https://safety4sea.com/new-agreement-to-use-drones-for-ship-emission-monitoring/