Research Article

Research on the inspection technology and application of deep-sea marine cable based on underwater robots

Angjiang Power Supply Bureau of Guangdong Power Grid Corporation, Yangjiang 529500, Guangdong, PR China

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Received: 21 February 2026
Accepted: 11 May 2026

Abstract

The growing dependence on deep-sea marine cables for telecommunications, power transmission, and scientific research has highlighted the importance of efficient inspection and maintenance strategies. Conventional techniques, including human divers, Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), and Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs), have been used as main instruments for cable inspection. They are, however, plagued by several challenges, including high cost of operation, depth limitations, interference from the environment, and the danger to human life. This article discusses how underwater robots can transform the inspection and repair of deep-sea cables. In particular, the research focuses on the multiple underwater robotic platforms, i.e., ROVs, AUVs, and hybrid platforms such as Underwater Vehicle-Manipulator Systems (UVMS), with a focus on inspection, navigation, and repair. It explores the integration of advanced inspection technologies, including vision-based systems, sonar-based navigation, acoustic positioning, and multisensory fusion, to enhance navigation accuracy and damage detection in harsh underwater environments. The paper uses a number of case studies proving the effective utilization of robotic platforms in actual cable inspection and maintenance applications, displaying their capacity for damage detection, cable condition monitoring, and even autonomous repair operations.