Geoscience and geotechnical solutions provider Fugro has secured full ownership of SEA-KIT International through an agreement to acquire the remaining shares in the uncrewed surface vessel (USV) development firm.
The collaboration between Fugro and SEA-KIT has spanned several years, yielding significant advancements in USV technology. Together, the partners achieved notable milestones, including the successful delivery of the first commercially available remotely operated USV and an electric-powered remotely operated vehicle.
SEA-KIT International's Chief Executive and Founder, Ben Simpson, recognized as a pivotal leader in this partnership by Fugro, played a crucial role in reshaping the maritime industry.
Fugro's Director of Blue Robotics, Henk van Dalen, expressed enthusiasm about the integration, stating, “We are excited to welcome the talented SEA-KIT team into the Fugro family. We look forward to leveraging their knowledge and growing the SEA-KIT product offering to the maritime industry as we continue to drive innovation in this space. We are committed to ensuring a smooth integration process and will work closely with our new team members to maximize the value delivered to our combined customer base.”
The transaction is anticipated to conclude by the end of 2023, pending customary closing conditions. SEA-KIT will maintain its commitment to providing clients with cutting-edge USV products, marking a strategic step forward in Fugro's quest to further enhance innovations in the unmanned surface vessel sector.
