Project leaders
The project is led by WSense, a European deep-tech company founded by researchers specialized in underwater communications and headquartered in Rome.
Project description
The project drives the deployment of a pioneering infrastructure for the Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT), based on underwater communication systems that operate as the equivalent of terrestrial Wi-Fi, but adapted to the aquatic environment. The technology enables the creation of robust networks connecting water-quality sensors, underwater cameras, autonomous underwater vehicles, marine energy platforms, and strategic seabed locations.
Through this network, large underwater areas can be continuously monitored in real time, particularly in ports, aquaculture facilities, offshore wind farms, and coastal logistics corridors, where environmental surveillance and infrastructure management are critical.
The platform stands out for its ability to integrate data from multiple sources and support maritime, energy, and logistics operations within a single system. In port environments, the technology enables new digital business opportunities, such as structural monitoring of quays and underwater piles, corrosion detection, spill control, and underwater perimeter surveillance.
The technology has reached a high level of maturity thanks to multiple trials and demonstrations in real-world environments, validating its stability and reliability. WSense is currently entering a commercial scaling phase after raising €10 million in funding and being selected as a flagship project by the European BlueInvest initiative, which supports strategic technologies for the blue economy.
Despite its strong potential, the project also assesses the possible acoustic impacts of underwater communication on marine life. WSense works closely with scientific institutions to minimize acoustic emissions and ensure that systems operate within safe thresholds for marine mammals and sensitive species.
Project objectives
The objective of the project is to demonstrate the industrial and environmental viability of the Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT)—an underwater internet infrastructure capable of delivering reliable, secure, and scalable communications in maritime environments.
This network will enable the digitalization of the underwater domain, support next-generation port operations, optimize infrastructure management, and enhance ocean and environmental security. Its deployment aims to lay the foundations for a new underwater digital ecosystem that fosters data-driven port activities and the growth of the blue economy.
Publication date
12/12/2025
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