As we return from Rio Oil & Gas 2026, we’re taking a closer look at the technology supporting subsea work in one of the world’s largest and most demanding offshore markets.
SMD has worked alongside Brazil’s offshore industry for 25 years, delivering more than 50 systems, building long-term customer relationships and supporting both with local infrastructure and continued regional investment.
Brazil’s offshore environment places significant demands on subsea equipment. Deep water, strong currents and challenging sea conditions sit alongside increasingly complex construction, intervention and survey scopes.
For SMD Quantum, that means combining power, control and tooling capability with the support infrastructure needed to keep systems performing throughout their working life.
Maintaining control offshore
SMD Quantum is well suited to the demands of Brazil’s deepwater offshore environment.
In strong currents and changing subsea conditions, it provides the thrust and stability to maintain control during complex and intricate operations.
Its 250hp (186kW) power system delivers up to 1,100kgf of forward, aft and lateral bollard pull, alongside 900kgf vertically. ROV Dynamic Positioning and flight control functions further support accurate positioning and maneuverability during demanding operations.
This level of performance is particularly valuable in deepwater environments where maintaining position, managing tooling and working effectively around subsea infrastructure become more challenging.
From inspection to heavy intervention
Rated to depths of up to 4,000m, SMD Quantum is designed for heavy intervention and construction work, while also providing an effective platform for survey operations.
A 4,000kg through-frame lift and 350kg payload accommodate significant loads, while SMD Quantum’s frame provides substantial space for tools and instruments, without requiring an additional skid.
This within-frame tooling capability is a key advantage in demanding offshore conditions, helping maintain in-water performance and current-holding capability while giving operators greater flexibility around the task at hand.
Configurable hydraulic stations and 28 standard instrument ports extend that flexibility further, enabling vehicle configuration around different equipment, tooling and project requirements.
Technology backed by 25 years in Brazil
Performance offshore is only part of the picture.
Since we began supplying systems into Brazil in 2001, our presence in the country has grown alongside the needs of the offshore industry. Today, we have delivered more than 50 systems to the region, with our local support infrastructure helping existing and future customers.
That means operators can combine SMD Quantum’s technical capability with access to in-country spares, equipment maintenance and technical expertise, backed by our 24/7 Support Services. This global offer is designed to optimise product performance throughout a vehicle’s working life, ensuring longevity and reliability.
To find out more about SMD Quantum and our work in Brazil’s offshore market, please contact our team.
