Marine Scotland have partnered with HiDef Aerial Surveying to develop a sound aerial survey strategy for Scottish waters, to meet requirements for the sustainable development of offshore marine renewables and a network of Marine Protected Areas.
HiDef will install their patented digital video technology into Marine Scotland fisheries aircraft, up to 10 large scale surveys are planned in Scottish waters during the remainder of 2014
Installation of the camera systems has already been completed without a hitch, similarly air crews were trained in the operation of the sophisticated multi camera ultra-HD (16 times HD) system.
The agreement will see HiDef conduct a review of survey footage, then undertake analysis of the data and report on findings.
Mark Robinson a director at HiDef commented; “This deal heralds a unique operational partnership. Normally HiDef would deliver its service using special modified aircraft. Installing our technology into Marine Scotland aircraft allows the government department to leverage value from their own assets, delivering value for money in the process. There were some potential pitfalls in utilising a new aircraft type, and some technical challenges, but I’m delighted to say installation and training went extremely well, thanks largely to the planning our engineers undertook.”
Steve Burns HiDef’s Technical Director added; “We had this project firmly in our sights, even prior to Marine Scotland issuing their competitive tender. We felt we were best placed to secure this contract as we are the only provider who had experience in deploying technology at arms-length.”