Cyberhawk expands ABS approval, delivering safer, cost-efficient ship hull inspections

EDINBURGH, Scotland - September 24, 2025 - Cyberhawk™, a global leader in drone-based inspection and survey services, and visual data management software, has secured approval from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) as a Recognized Service Supplier for Enhanced Survey Program (ESP) Hull Thickness Gauging using drones.

This milestone builds on Cyberhawk's existing ABS recognition for Remote Inspection Techniques (RITs) in Close Visual Inspection (CVI), reinforcing the company's proven ability to deliver class-approved results. By combining safety, cost, and efficiency benefits, Cyberhawk helps ship owners and operators achieve more reliable inspections.

“This latest ABS approval is not just about technology; it’s a reflection of Cyberhawk's years of experience in the maritime industry,” observed Chris Fleming, CEO of Cyberhawk. “Our teams have delivered thousands of complex offshore and shipyard projects worldwide, and we've built the expertise to meet the most stringent class requirements. By combining that knowledge with drone-based innovation, we're giving ship owners and operators a safer, faster, and more cost-effective way to maintain vessel integrity with confidence.”

Unlike conventional hull gauging methods, which require scaffolding, rope access, or confined space entry to measure ballast tank hull plate thickness, Cyberhawk's advanced drone-based approach eliminates these risks and challenges. Cyberhawk's proven inspection approach delivers several benefits, including:

• Decreased downtime and costs by reducing or eliminating the need for staging, saving operators both time and expense during surveys and repairs.
• Improved safety by removing personnel from hazardous environments such as ballast tanks and hard-to-reach structures.
• Highest accuracy and confidence with drone-mounted ultrasonic thickness (UT) sensors, overseen by a team of PCN Level 2/3 certified UT specialists who ensure the highest standards of data quality and class compliance.

As of 2025, Cyberhawk has completed ABS-approved scopes at shipyards in South Korea and Singapore, as well as on offshore floating storage units (FSUs) in the Gulf of Mexico. In one recent shipyard project, the company's drone-based hull gauging reduced inspection time by 30 percent compared to traditional methods, allowing the vessel to return to service faster while minimizing worker risk. Cyberhawk is also preparing for upcoming projects in Angola, further extending its global footprint.

To support this growth, Cyberhawk has expanded its engineering team with ultrasonic testing (UT) subject matter experts (SMEs), including PCN Level 2/3 certified professionals, who provide oversight and technical assurance for all hull gauging services. This investment ensures that every inspection meets the stringent requirements of classification societies, providing ship owners with complete confidence in the results.

“Our expanded ABS approval for hull gauging underscores the reliability of our technology and the expertise behind it,” noted Callum Kottis, Senior Vice President Oil, Gas & Marine Operations. "By strengthening our team with UT specialists, we're delivering results that are not only innovative but also trusted at the highest technical standards.”

With its growing portfolio of approvals, an enhanced technical team and a proven project record, Cyberhawk continues to lead the way in digital inspection innovation, supporting the maritime industry's push toward safer, smarter, and more sustainable operations.

For more information on how Cyberhawk supports offshore operators with high-quality, scalable inspection, monitoring and environmental reporting solutions, visit our Oil, Gas and Marine page.