In 2022, the Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ) started a tendering procedure for the purchase of a long-range, multifunctional, unmanned surface vessel for scientific research and innovation. The contract was awarded to Maritime Robotics, who will deliver a Mariner X by the end of 2023. In 2024, the Sea Acceptance tests will be carried out, the USV will be extensively tested, the operators will be trained, and standard procedures will be drawn up. This USV will increase the seagoing capacity of Belgian maritime research, and is complementary to the manned research vessels.