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Singapore MPA Chemical Spill Exercise Demonstrates Safety Role for DataXplorer USVs

  • Writer: Open Ocean Robotics - Ocean Services
    Open Ocean Robotics - Ocean Services
  • Aug 18
  • 1 min read
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August 18, 2025


Open Ocean Robotics' DataXplorer USV was Deployed During a Major Multi-Agency Chemical Spill Exercise in Singapore to Monitor Air Quality and Help Keep Responders out of Hazardous Zones


The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) recently held a large‑scale chemical spill exercise on 15 July 2025 as part of the 12th edition of International Safety@Sea Week. The drill simulated a methanol tanker collision off Singapore’s southern coast, involving 11 vessels, more than 150 personnel from over 10 agencies and industry partners — all participating in coordinated spill‑containment, crew‑evacuation, and hazard‑monitoring operations.


The exercise deployed a range of cutting‑edge technologies including drone‑enabled vessel assessment, 3D imaging, a water‑curtain misting system to limit chemical plume spread, and a Maritime Digital Twin with plume‑modelling tools to support situational awareness and decision‑making.


Central to the response was our DataXplorer uncrewed surface vehicle (USV) tasked with air‑quality monitoring. This use of this USV greatly reduced the need for first responders to enter potentially dangerous areas — underscoring the value of autonomous platforms in hazardous maritime operations.


At Open Ocean Robotics, we are proud that the DataXplorer USV helped demonstrate how autonomous, remote‑operated systems can enhance safety, especially in scenarios involving chemical spills or other hazardous conditions. This exercise highlights our commitment to providing not only ocean data solutions, but also tools that protect people and the marine environment in high-risk situations.



We look forward to strengthening collaborations and supporting additional readiness drills and real‑world deployments, reinforcing the role of autonomous maritime systems in safe, sustainable and responsive marine operations.


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