ACUA Ocean and HydroSurv, two UK-based companies specializing in maritime autonomous systems, have announced their intention to merge, combining their expertise in the development and operation of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) and associated technologies for marine surveying and surveillance.
The new company, to be named Blue Ocean Autonomy, will deliver turnkey solutions across a broad spectrum of capabilities, covering the inland, nearshore and offshore sectors.
“In an evolving market, customer demand is shifting towards a comprehensive solution for trusted and certified USV systems," David Hull, founder and CEO of HydroSurv said in a statement announcing the merger. "In response to this trend, we are excited to announce the intent to merge our two companies with a shared focus on accelerating the availability of these solutions for widespread commercial use, expanding our market presence and providing a better value offer to our customers.”
Blue Ocean Autonomy’s strategy will center around low and zero-emission vessel operations with a strong focus on sustainability. It will leverage both companies’ technologies; HydroSurv’s commercially proven electric and battery-hybrid rapid environmental assessment vessels (REAV) and ACUA Ocean’s hydrogen-powered H-USV, being developed as part of the UK Department for Transport’s flagship Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) program.
The merger is designed to deliver a broad offering of both near-shore and long-endurance vessels, from 2.8 meters (9.1) to 13.5 meters (44.2), for ocean data collection, hydrographic, geophysical, and environmental survey and surveillance and monitoring of critical offshore infrastructure.
“Our emphasis has always been on what is best for our customers," Neil Tinmouth, founder and CEO of ACUA Ocean said. "This merger represents a natural progression of our vision and values with a company that is a strong cultural, as well as technological, fit. The new entity will undoubtedly be greater than the sum of its parts, establishing one of the most experienced and talented teams in marine autonomy.”
“In an increasingly competitive market, this merger represents a unique opportunity for UK SMEs to make their mark on the fast-growing autonomous vessel space," Tom Chant MBE, CEO of the Society of Maritime Industries said. "We look forward to supporting their progress through their membership of SMI and the MAS Working Group.”
