Plan and Protocol for the Demonstration of Advanced Autonomous Systems

On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the ELMAR University Regatta (1996–2006), a Robot-Drone Demo Convoy will be organized, featuring a demonstration of advanced autonomous robotic systems under real-world maritime conditions.

The event will be held as part of the international conference Robot Technologies and Applications (RTA), which supports the launch of a new university study programme in mechatronics at the University of Zadar, as well as the promotion of robotics, autonomous systems and artificial intelligence in Croatia.

The Robot-Drone Demo Convoy is a unique combination of sport, science, technology and industry. The intention is to demonstrate how modern autonomous technologies can advance maritime activities, environmental protection, marine research, navigation safety and the development of new economic activities.

Objectives of the Demonstration at Sea and on Land

As part of the Robot-Drone Demo Convoy, a practical demonstration of modern autonomous maritime systems developed within the MARBLE and ARTEMIS projects, with the support of VANDRI Robotics and other manufacturers, will be held.

The main objectives of the demonstration are:

• demonstrating the capabilities of modern autonomous maritime technologies under real-world operating conditions,
• presenting the cooperation of surface, aerial and underwater robotic systems,
• demonstrating the application of artificial intelligence in autonomous navigation and task execution,
• promoting research, innovation and the development of advanced robotic technologies,
• connecting the scientific community, industry and students through a practical presentation of new technologies.

Participants will have the opportunity to follow the coordinated operation of several autonomous platforms working together to perform complex tasks such as autonomous navigation, marine sampling, underwater inspection and real-time data transmission.

Presentation of the MARBLE Project

Before departure, an introductory presentation of the MARBLE, ARTEMIS and MULTISTEM projects will be organized for all participants at the premises of JK Uskok.

The presentations will cover:

• project objectives,
• development of autonomous maritime systems,
• research results,
• potential applications in marine protection, monitoring, navigation safety and scientific research in the Adriatic.

Technical Presentation of Systems and Equipment

All platforms participating in the demonstration will be presented:

• autonomous surface vessel (USV),
• unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV),
• remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV),
• sensor systems,
• communication infrastructure,
• control and safety systems.

Participants will be introduced to the operating principles, communication between the platforms and the safety protocols applied during the demonstration.

Public Event: Humanoid Robots – From Walking to Dancing

As part of the MULTISTEM project, a public event featuring demonstrations of the locomotion capabilities of humanoid robots will be held. The event will feature the humanoid robot Tonka, the robot Jože and a robotic dog in a highly lifelike form.

Demonstration Location

The maritime and land-based demonstrations will take place in the waters around Kukljica and in the centre of Kukljica, at a suitable location that ensures safe operation and excellent visibility for all participants. Vessels participating in the Robot Convoy will be anchored in Kukljica Bay. Following the demonstration, the vessels will be allocated berths in the port of Kukljica, at the Zelena Punta pier and at the marina's transit berths.

Demonstration Programme

The demonstration consists of three interconnected operational units.

A. Autonomous Surface Vessel (USV) Demonstration

The first part of the demonstration will showcase the capabilities of an autonomous surface vessel.

The following will be demonstrated:

• semi-autonomous navigation,
• following a predefined route,
• automatic positioning,
• adaptation to waves and sea currents,
• precise control with minimal operator intervention.

Participants will have the opportunity to observe the operation of the autonomous navigation system under real-world sailing conditions.

B. Marine Sampling Using an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)

The second part of the demonstration will showcase the application of an unmanned aerial vehicle for marine monitoring.

The drone will perform:

• autonomous flight to a predefined location,
• stable hovering above the sea surface,
• deployment of the sampling system,
• collection of a seawater sample,
• return to the starting location.

The demonstration will show the potential for rapid sample collection in hard-to-reach areas without the need to deploy a research vessel.

C. Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicle (ROV) Demonstration

The third part of the demonstration will showcase the capabilities of a remotely operated underwater vehicle.

The planned activities include:

• diving in front of the pier,
• underwater inspection,
• seabed inspection,
• inspection of underwater objects and structures,
• real-time video transmission.

Participants will be able to follow the entire demonstration on a large screen via a live video feed from the underwater camera.

D. Land-Based Locomotion Demonstration of the Humanoid Robots TONKA, JOŽE and PAS as Part of the ESF MULTISTEM Project

Planned activities:

• diving in front of the pier,
• underwater inspection,
• seabed inspection,
• inspection of underwater objects and structures,
• real-time video image transmission,
• land-based demonstration of the robots in the main square of Kukljica.

Participants will be able to follow the entire demonstration on a large screen via a live video feed from the underwater camera.

Public Discussion in an Open-Air Setting

Vision for the Development of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

A public discussion will be organized on a stage in an open-air setting in the central square of Kukljica,

addressing challenging topics concerning how robotics and artificial intelligence technologies will change our lives and society. The discussion will feature prominent experts and project leaders from universities and industry. The discussion will be supported by a sound system and open to a broad audience of participants, local residents and tourists.

Continuation of the humanoid robot demonstration. Following the demonstration programme, an informal gathering and open public discussion will be held outdoors on the Vision for the Development of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence, with participants and media representatives.

The thematic discussion will cover:

• what lies ahead and how our lives are changing,
• questions concerning the operation of autonomous systems,
• opportunities for applications in industry,
• scientific and research challenges,
• future development of robotics and autonomous maritime technologies.

PROGRAMME

Saturday, 12 September 2026

08:00 Gathering of participants at JK Uskok

08:15 Welcome address and presentation of the programme

08:30 Commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the ELMAR University Regatta and memorial video screening

08:45 Presentation of the MARBLE project

09:00 Preparation for departure and distribution of trip packages

09:30 Convoy departure

11:00 Anchoring in front of Kukljica

11:30 Demonstration of autonomous systems at sea (USV, UAV and ROV)

12:30 Mooring at the transit pier of Kukljica Marina

13:00 Land-based demonstration and social gathering

14:00 Public open-air discussion: Vision for the Development of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

15:00 Social gathering on the terrace of Café Jadran, with refreshments and music

17:00 Departure towards Uskok

19:00 Joint dinner at JK Uskok

20:00 Social gathering

The convoy is organized as part of the celebration of the anniversary of the ELMAR University Regatta: ELMAR anniversary video

REGISTRATION FOR PARTICIPATION

Those interested in participating are invited to register via the following link:

Registration form

Contact details

E-mail: mipro@mipro.hr
Mobile: +385 98 209 816