University of Gothenburg acquires new HUGIN to replace “Ran”

The University of Gothenburg is purchasing a new HUGIN autonomous underwater vehicle with a 3,000-meter range to replace “Ran,” which was lost under an Antarctic glacier in 2024. Funding comes from a major donation by Voice of the Ocean and insurance proceeds, enabling new research expeditions.

“Ran allowed us to be the first researchers to explore beneath the Thwaites grounding-line glacier,” said Professor Anna Wåhlin. “We captured close-up images and detailed data on ice melt mechanisms that satellites alone cannot provide.”

Kongsberg’s Stene Førsund highlighted improvements in the new vehicle, dubbed “Ran II.” It will feature enhanced navigation, robust emergency decision support, and greater safety for operations beneath glaciers, sea ice, and the seabed.

The acquisition ensures the continuation of critical Antarctic research and strengthens the University’s capability to study vulnerable polar environments.

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