AGISTAR Releases Modular USV for Aquatic Survey Applications

AGISTAR has introduced the BX-USV II, a modular unmanned surface vessel (USV) engineered for a wide range of aquatic missions including environmental monitoring, hydrographic surveying, and infrastructure inspection.

The BX-USV II integrates autonomous navigation, underwater propulsion, and flexible sensor payload integration within a compact and portable platform. Constructed from enhanced flame-retardant, environmentally friendly, anti-collision composite materials, the vessel features a lightweight hull (approximately 5kg) and dual inflatable side floats. After deflation, the system is highly portable—easily transported by vehicle and deployed from the shore by a single operator.

Measuring 1600mm in length, 1200mm in width, and 400mm in height (post-aeration and assembly), the Unmanned Surface Vessel offers a standard load capacity of 50kg. The platform maintains stable performance across varying mission profiles, including bathymetric mapping, water sampling, sediment analysis, and sonar-based structural inspection. Its shallow draft of just 3 to 8cm allows for reliable operation in minimum working depths of only 0.2 meters—ideal for shallow, confined, or low-clearance environments.

Powered by dual 12Ah lithium batteries in the standard configuration, or an optional 40Ah pack for extended missions, the BX-USV II delivers a cruising endurance of up to 7 hours at a speed of 2 m/s. It offers an economic cruising speed of 1.5 m/s, with a maximum speed of 4 m/s, and features autonomous fixed-point positioning for station-keeping tasks.

The system is operable under wind and wave conditions up to a strong breeze and 2-meter wave heights. Control options include a handheld remote, wireless laptop interface, or mobile phone operation, providing flexible control in both field and lab environments.

With a modular structure that supports integration of third-party or mission-specific instruments, the BX-USV II is ideally suited for scientific, environmental, and infrastructure-related data acquisition in inland and coastal waters. Its lightweight, reconfigurable design makes it an efficient tool for professionals requiring a high-performance, portable USV platform.