CJR Propulsion develops high-efficiency propeller for Pioneer USV
October 28, 2026By Seawork Press IB
CJR Propulsion
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CJR Propulsion has developed a bespoke propeller for ACUA Ocean’s Pioneer uncrewed surface vessel (USV), achieving more than 70% efficiency to help extend operational endurance.
An analysis of Pioneer’s drivetrain identified the propeller as a key opportunity to improve efficiency and increase the vessel’s time at sea. ACUA Ocean subsequently worked with UK-based CJR Propulsion to develop a propeller tailored to the vessel’s speed profile.
CJR Propulsion stated that “combined hundreds of simulation runs and manual model adjustments” helped design the propeller. The resulting Class S propeller was manufactured using robotic casting mould production and five-axis CNC machining to achieve a precise hydrodynamic finish.
According to CJR Propulsion, the propeller achieves just over 70% efficiency, compared with around 50% for a typical propeller. The company says the improvement could extend vessel endurance by tens of days, depending on fuel type and quantity.
Pioneer demonstrated its offshore operating capabilities earlier this year. The vessel remained at sea for more than 100 hours, operated under remote control at distances of around 16 to 20 nautical miles.
In October, Pioneer completed a remote, 24-hour offshore operation, powered entirely by hydrogen.
