KOTUG developed a patented drone technology for future use in its tug operations. This pioneering invention – using a drone to connect the towline to an assisted vessel – drastically improves the safety margin of tug operations as this avoids the need for manoeuvring in the so-called danger zone. 

KOTUG is the first tugboat company that uses this technology: to deliver a messenger line to a predetermined  location with object recognition software. Instead of picking up the heaving line of the assisted ship, the messenger line of the tug will be brought to the assisted ship in a more controlled manner. This will allow the tug to safely sail beside the assisted ship instead of in front of the assisted ship. 

Conventionally, tugboat and crew position themselves in front of and close to the assisted vessel in order to grab the heaving line by hand. By doing so, the tug and crew position themselves in the danger zone, close and even under the (flared) bow of a vessel. A minor flaw in the operation can result in major injuries of the deck crew and/or damage to the tug and the assisted vessel.

A series of successful tests have been performed by KOTUG for full operational use of this revolutionary technology for which standard operating procedures will be developed in conjunction with relevant authorities and stakeholders.