Protecting Offshore Energy Sources

The offshore platforms related to fossil fuels and renewable energy, such as oil rigs, oil and gas pipelines, and wind farms, are vulnerable to attack in wartime or by those looking to make a political statement. The need to protect these offshore platforms is a common concern for both the fossil fuel and green energy industries. The US transition from energy dependence to energy independence has strategic implications felt worldwide, accelerated by the war in Ukraine. While renewable energy sources have made major strides, oil and natural gas will continue to meet the world's energy needs for the foreseeable future. Offshore energy production, primarily in the Gulf of Mexico, has been increasing over the past decade. However, environmental concerns have slowed down offshore drilling. The oil and gas industry has been proactive in ensuring the safety of their platforms, but more needs to be done. MARTAC USVs (Unmanned Surface Vehicles) can be used to safeguard these vulnerable offshore assets. These USVs have been proven through extensive military and civilian use and can be equipped with various sensors for inspections. The Devil Ray USV, in particular, is the best alternative for offshore oil rig and wind farm inspections.