Under the terms of the agreement, Ashtead Technology will be the exclusive rental partner for all Reach Robotics manipulators which enable inspection, maintenance and repair tasks usually reserved for more expensive work-class ROVs.

International subsea rental equipment and solutions specialist Ashtead Technology has signed a rental agreement with Reach Robotics, an Australian-based manufacturer of industry-leading all-electric robotic arm solutions for inspection class ROVs.

Under the terms of the agreement, Ashtead Technology will be the exclusive rental partner for all Reach Robotics manipulators which enable inspection, maintenance and repair tasks usually reserved for more expensive work-class ROVs.

Reach Robotics ROV manipulators are compact, lightweight and offer best-in-class performance designed for operating in harsh environments. Available in a range of configurations, they come with an advanced software interface with 3D visualisation. Combined with the company's operator control unit, Reach Control, and the Master Arm, Reach Robotics advanced manipulators multiply the capability and efficiency of a human operator.

Brett Lestrange, Ashtead Technology's Regional Director for Europe, said: "This exclusive agreement with Reach Robotics strengthens Ashtead Technology's existing inventory of manipulator equipment, allowing us to offer a more comprehensive range of solutions to support our customers' ROV tooling applications. It also demonstrates our ongoing commitment to the global offshore energy market by offering the latest and most advanced technologies to support our customers' projects worldwide.

"We look forward to seeing these manipulators performing in the field and delivering excellent results for our customers."

Anders Ridley-Smith, Reach Robotics' Commercial Director, added: "For us, finding the right rental partner was all about reach, reputation and, to be frank, enthusiasm. We're confident in the value our electric manipulators can bring to a service provider's operations, and also in Ashtead Technology's ability to help maximise their availability.

"With Ashtead Technology's global reach, this rental agreement is an important strategic opportunity for Reach Robotics and will significantly support the steep growth of our business."

Founded in 2016, with its headquarters and manufacturing facility in Sydney, Australia, Reach Robotics' vision is to extend human reach into harsh environments. The company's products enable complex inspection and intervention in maritime infrastructure management, military/police operations, marine science and autonomous robotics research applications.