Advantec Group

Tug boat challenges

Fender Force is a cutting-edge sensor system developed by Sensor Technologies, part of the Advantec Group, designed to improve safety and efficiency during tug operations. Installed directly behind fenders, the system measures and reports the forces applied between tug and hull in real time, providing tug masters with instant feedback to guide pushing manoeuvres more accurately and with greater control. This helps reduce the risk of vessel damage, especially during complex operations in busy ports or harsh marine conditions.

Smarter operations, reduced environmental impact

By understanding the exact force and angle of push, operators can adjust their approach to minimise strain and optimise engine performance. This allows for a significant reduction in RPM during pushes, lowering fuel consumption, reducing emissions, and ultimately contributing to more sustainable tug operations. Fender Force is easy to retrofit to existing vessels, extending the life of current equipment while adding new layers of insight and control.

Data that drives training and long-term performance

All force data is securely transmitted to a cloud-based platform for realtime monitoring and long-term analysis. This not only improves day-to-day operations, but also provides valuable insights for post-operation reviews and future planning. The data is also compatible with simulator training, enabling tug crews to enhance their skills and adopt safer practices in a controlled environment.

Why choose Advantec Marine

With decades of experience in marine safety and control systems, we combine engineering expertise with a deep understanding of on-the-ground operational challenges. Our team delivers robust, field-proven solutions — from bespoke designs to fully integrated installations — with full lifecycle support.