LNM08G-22A956
Received: 3 Nov 2026, 00:00Updated: 4 Nov 2026, 18:21
Keywords
- Geometry refsbounded, lane
- Geometry phrasesbound by, fairway
Message content
SECTOR MOBILE, EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE (EEZ)
General / Autonomous Vessel Operations
Gulf of America - Unmanned Surface Vessel Operation --- --- Unmanned surface vessels will conduct surveys in the Gulf of America in an area bound by approximate positions: 29-09.70N 085-53.60W, 29-16.20N 085-44.60W, 29-10.80N 085-38.60W, 29-12.00N 085-37.70W, 28-59.90N 085-22.20W and 28-53.00N 085-28.10W. Two 10 meter Saildrone USVs (SD-2056 and SD-2065) will launch on or near November 3, 2026, approximately 5 nm seaward of St Andrew Bay Entrance Lighted Buoy 1 (LLNR-3350) and transit south, remaining outside charted fairways and only crossing when vessel traffic is clear. A third Saildrone USV (SD-2022) will launch from the same area on or near November 10, 2026. Pre-survey testing will be conducted in areas along the route to the designated survey areas. The USVs will be equipped with AIS, radar, cameras, and sensors tied into an onboard collision avoidance system. The USVs will be monitored 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, by qualified Remote Vessel Pilots. The USV systems will operate on pre-planned routes but allow for immediate manual intervention by a remote operator for course or speed changes to ensure safe navigation. Mariners are urged to maintain a wide berth from the operating USVs and can contact the Saildrone Remote Operations Center at (510) 722-6070 for additional information.
Valid 2026-11-03 to 2027-04-15.
USCG Heartland (Gulf) District Local Notice to Mariners 44/2026