# Ardusub - Heading only control

**URL:** <https://discuss.bluerobotics.com/t/ardusub-heading-only-control/22356>\
**Category:** DIY ROVs\
**Created:** [January 29, 2026, 4:53am UTC](https://discuss.bluerobotics.com/t/ardusub-heading-only-control/22356 "2026-01-29T04:53:29Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 2\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![ASV\_ROV](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/a/bcef8e/32.png) [@ASV\_ROV](https://discuss.bluerobotics.com/u/ASV_ROV)\
**Post date:** [January 29, 2026, 4:53am UTC](https://discuss.bluerobotics.com/t/ardusub-heading-only-control/22356/1 "2026-01-29T04:53:29Z")

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Hi all,

We are looking at building a frame for seabed deployment and all we need is heading control, as depth is controlled by crane.

All other rov features will still be used, with info on depth, heading & altitude + 2 x cameras / lights.

My question I guess is how will the rov react if it has no vertical thrusters? Can a very basic rov be built with heading control only?

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**Author:** ![tony-white](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex019/user_avatar/discuss.bluerobotics.com/tony-white/32/18385_2.png) [@tony-white](https://discuss.bluerobotics.com/u/tony-white)\
**Post date:** [January 29, 2026, 5:15pm UTC](https://discuss.bluerobotics.com/t/ardusub-heading-only-control/22356/2 "2026-01-29T17:15:38Z")

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Hi @ASV_ROV -  
You can absolutely build an ROV without vertical thrusters. Besides not being able to control its depth, it will also be unable to stabilize itself in the roll or pitch axis. If you are operating in a situation where the ROV does not need to actively stabilize itself, as it is stable passively with buoyancy distribution, then you should be just fine! Simply select the appropriate thruster layout for your vehicle.

 ![image](https://us1.discourse-cdn.com/flex019/uploads/bluerobotics/original/3X/1/9/191fb873a7ea55e59273587b24ff986a3050f623.jpeg)