Remotely Operated Vehicle

Tethered, remotely operated underwater vehicle used for subsea inspection, maintenance, and intervention work. Class systems range from observation-class units (1–5 kW, single manipulator) to work-class ROVs (75–200 kW, two seven-function manipulators) that perform valve operations, hot-stab insertion, and torque-tool work. ROVs are launched and recovered through a moonpool or over the side from MPSVs, drillships, and DSVs. Operator competence is governed by IMCA R 004 (ROV pilot/technician scheme), and the tooling interfaces are standardised through API and IMCA recommendations.