The Marine Institute is acquiring its first autonomous surface vessel.

Partnering with SeaRobotics Corp., the $1.16 million ASV will complement training in ocean mapping, observation and characterization.

The eight-metre-long vessel is equipped with a diesel-electric propulsion system, collision avoidance technology, GPS navigation and operator capabilities. It can be outfitted with a variety of sensors and sonars for different purposes.

The provincial government contributed over $500,000 to the ASV, which is part of the ongoing Holyrood Marine Base expansion.

The vessel is expected to be completed in the spring of 2022.