Tiepoint, a leading company specializing in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), has extensive experience operating drones in the challenging Arctic region. With a focus on electric UAVs used by
NOFO (The Norwegian Clean Seas Association for Operating Companies), this article explores the
unique challenges posed by icing conditions, polar lows, and sea spray ice in the Barents Sea. We
will discuss the impact of these conditions on UAV performance and safety, as well as the solutions
developed by Tiepoint to overcome these challenges.

Drones for Oil Spill Preparedness

NOFO utilizes UAVs to provide a bird’s-eye view that enables the on-scene commander to direct
vessels and their oil spill containment systems, monitor temperature on pumps, observe wildlife,
map shorelines, and more. UAVs have become an essential tool for effective oil spill preparedness.
Therefore, year-round operations are crucial for maintaining readiness

Icing as a Barrier to Drone Operations

Icing occurs when water droplets in the air
freeze onto an object’s surface, reducing its
aerodynamic performance and potentially leading to loss of control. In the Barents Sea, icing
can take various forms, including freezing fog,
freezing rain, and supercooled water droplets.
These types of ice can accumulate on the propellers, rotors, and wings of UAVs, significantly
reducing lift and maneuverability.