About TAC Challenge

An underwater robotics competition for students all across the globe

TAC Challenge is an international student robotics competition focused on autonomous and remotely operated systems in realistic environments. The competition brings together students from across the world to design, build, and operate advanced robotic systems that solve complex, real-world challenges inspired by industry needs.

Held annually in Norway, TAC Challenge serves as a bridge between education, research, and industry, giving students hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology while fostering collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving under real operational conditions.

Our Mission

Inspire students to pursue careers in robotics, autonomy, and engineering
Provide a practical learning arena beyond classrooms and simulations
Encourage innovation through realistic, open-ended challenges
Strengthen collaboration between students, academia, and industry

We believe the best learning happens when theory meets reality.

What Makes TAC Challenge Unique

Industry-relevant tasks

designed by the subsea and maritime industry, inspired by autonomous operations

Real environments

missions take place in both the ocean and pools

Open solution space with autonomy focus

allowing remotely operated solutions, while also rewarding autonomy

System-level thinking

challenging mechanics, electronics, software, autonomy, and teamwork

Networking and recruitement

connecting students and leading industry partners

Growing each year…

From 3 teams in 2021 to 15 teams and nearly 200 students from around the world in 2024.

TAC Challenge is now one of Norway’s largest meeting arenas for students developing drone and subsea technology.

         

Hosted by

Tau Autonomy Center (TAC)

Suitable testing and training facilities for autonomous vehicles

Tau Autonomy Center (TAC) was established early 2020 to meet the industry’s need for suitable testing and training facilities for autonomous vehicles covering both aerial and subsea drones. Additionally, Tau Autonomy Center offers excellent subsea conditions for testing and qualifying subsea remotely controlled technology in general.

 

As of today, several companies have tested, validated, and refined their technologies at TAC. The facility has become a trusted environment for real-world trials, enabling companies to push the boundaries of autonomous aerial and subsea systems under demanding and realistic conditions. Through these activities, TAC has established itself as a key arena for innovation, qualification, and collaboration across the autonomy and robotics ecosystem.

Key Partners
2026