7.2 General Requirements

7.2.1 Buoyancy and stability

The vessel must be positively buoyant and stable enough to be determined seaworthy.

7.2.2 Autonomy

When competing in the different challenges, teams will not be allowed to actively control the vessel remotely. In other words, the vessel must be fully autonomous while competing in the different categories. The sole exceptions to this are when switching the vessel into ‘autonomous mode’, and when activating the kill switch in case of emergency.

7.2.3 Remote Control Capabilities

Participating vessels must be able to be remotely controlled from land in case of a malfunction or emergency. The vessel will also be remotely operated during launch and recovery, as well as between challenges. All forms of propulsion and steering must be remotely controllable.

7.2.4 Camera

The camera system should have the capability to identify markers and potential threats in front and behind the vessel.

7.2.5 Reverse

The vessel should be able to back up when it's safe to do so. This requires a reverse function for the vessel when there are no threats or obstacles in the way.

7.2.6 Launching

Participating vessels must be able to be launched by a maximum of 3 people without the help of a crane. The total vessel weight should not exeed 65 kg.