The SAND research and development project is aimed at developing a super-technological naval drone platform, capable of performing fully-independent missions, from rescuing people to protecting water against pollution.
This innovative, multipurpose product is the result of in-depth research that has also led to rethink the shipbuilding areas involved, in what may be defined as an “Intelligent Factory” approach, where high safety standards go hand in hand with highly flexible production and solutions aimed at protecting the environment while also increasing energy efficiency.

Several businesses are involved in the project and have created a temporary grouping of enterprises including Effebi, Meccano Engineering, and IDS Ingegneria Dei Sistemi. Thanks to RINA’s support, the temporary grouping was able to have the SAND drone recognised as a Fast Patrol Vessel, and is currently fine-tuning the Unmanned part of the project in accordance with Regulations that are currently being developed. Navigo is the service centre that has stood by us in developing this project, recording a strong interest in the target markets.
Over €5 million were invested in this project, co-funded by the Tuscany Region, who allocated around €2.5 million. Studies lasted two years and applied cutting-edge technologies in the ICT, Photonics, Life Cycle Assessment, Chemistry, and Nanotechnology sectors.

The first prototype was presented in May 2019 at the Versilia Yachting Rendez-Vous.