Skyports Drone Services has launched the “BlueWater 2” maritime drone demonstrator, setting a new benchmark for green technology integration in the UK’s maritime sector. Backed by Innovate UK’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC 6) and UK SHORE, the project will trial an array of cutting-edge drone operations designed to support emissions reduction, smart shipping, port efficiency, and maritime surveillance. BlueWater 2 will showcase how electric and hybrid drones can serve as sustainable alternatives to traditional, emissions-intensive systems, laying the groundwork for commercialized services across the UK and beyond.
Green Maritime Drone Technology in Action
At its core, BlueWater 2 deploys specialized UAVs across four distinct maritime use cases. Port and vessel emissions monitoring, launching November 2025 at Portsmouth International Port, will utilize the DJI M350 RTK drone equipped with an Aeromon BH-12 sensor for robust, middle-distance pollution measurement missions. This system targets key pollutants—SOx, NOx, and CO₂—delivering live data streams to the Aeromon Cloud Service, enabling actionable emissions management for ports and operators.
From December 2025, automated port surveillance and monitoring will commence using a DJI Dock 2 “drone-in-a-box” solution paired with a DJI M3DT. This system will support automated, BVLOS (beyond visual line of sight) daily surveillance flights around Portsmouth’s port estate, reducing dependence on fossil-fuel patrol vehicles while strengthening audit and security processes. Missions will be remotely piloted from Skyports’ ROC in Buckinghamshire.
Operating from Predannack Airfield, Cornwall, the Skyways V2 drone will conduct automated ship-to-shore deliveries to moving vessels, streamlining logistics typically handled by helicopters or boats and dramatically lowering emissions associated with offshore support. Scheduled for January 2026 over the Straits of Dover from Lydd airfield, the Quantum Systems Vector drone will enable automated, satcom-enabled BVLOS missions in partnership with the Maritime & Coastguard Authority (MCA), providing extended-range aerial surveillance for fisheries and border operations.
Partners and Industry Impact
Skyports is joined by leading UAV integrator Consortiq and systems engineering specialist Stehr Consulting, ensuring technical rigor and sector alignment. “The shipping sector needs to decarbonise and embrace smarter solutions like drones and artificial intelligence,” said Alex Brown, CEO, Skyports Drone Services. “BlueWater 2 addresses this key challenge with a scalable solution: low-emission electric and hybrid drones that reduce reliance on fuel and emissions intensive systems.”
BlueWater 2 builds on the legacy of the earlier demonstrator, paving the way for scalable, sustainable, and efficient maritime operations, and contributing to the UK’s Net Zero ambitions.
About Skyports Drone Services
Skyports Drone Services is the world’s leading drone airline. We are experts in BVLOS flight for delivery and inspection use cases. We partner with maritime and offshore industries, healthcare providers, infrastructure and asset owners, and public bodies to improve connectivity, safety and sustainability with drone operations. Skyports Drone Services is committed to scaling the drone industry to enable businesses and individuals to reap the rewards of drone technology.
Find out more at: www.skyportsdroneservices.com
About Consortiq
Consortiq is a UK & US-based aviation consultancy with operations in the UK, US and Canada. It is a CAA-approved Recognised Assessment Entity (RAE) specialising in drone training, regulatory compliance, and advanced UAS integration for enterprise and government clients. With a strong consulting pedigree, Consortiq advises clients worldwide on the strategic use of UAS, safe and compliant airspace operations, and the development of innovative proofs of concept to accelerate the adoption of drone technology. Through its expertise in safety management, operational authorisation, and BVLOS concept development, Consortiq helps organisations unlock the full value of drone technology while maintaining the highest standards of airspace safety and compliance. The company is recognised and respected across all aspects of UAS — from pilot training and risk assessment to data capture and analysis — supporting sectors including maritime, infrastructure, energy, oil and gas and environmental monitoring.
Find out more at www.consortiq.com
About Stehr Consulting
Stehr Consulting is an agile and dynamic engineering and technology consultancy, specialising in decarbonisation, digitalisation, and disruptive innovation. With a robust Systems Engineering capability and deep knowledge of uncrewed systems – particularly in the Maritime context – Stehr Consulting supports clients in delivering complex projects from concept to operation. Our team’s experience spans regulatory innovation, strategic advisory, and assurance for both commercial and defence sectors. As trusted problem solvers, our vision is to enable safe, sustainable, and efficient operations, working collaboratively with industry and government to deliver solutions that drive real-world impact.
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Ian McNabb is a journalist focusing on drone technology and lifestyle content at Dronelife. He is based between Boston and NH and, when not writing, enjoys hiking and Boston area sports.
