Fugro strengthens its leading position in the field of maritime robotics solutions. The company acquires the remaining shares in SEA-KIT International.
The two companies are already long-standing partners in the development of high-tech unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) for low-carbon maritime operations and research. [ds_preview]
Milestones in the collaboration to date include the delivery of the first commercially available combination solution of remotely operated USV and electrically powered remotely operated vehicle (ROV) for the offshore inspection and monitoring market. Approvals were also obtained from various authorities in Europe, the Middle East and Australia for the operation of the jointly developed UPS and ROV combination solution via a global network of remote operations centers.
Breakthroughs in this field also include the delivery of five Fugro Blue Essence 12-meter UPSs in all key regions and the completion of the world’s first fully remote-controlled offshore wind farm inspection using a UPS and integrated ROV.
Fugro announces new USV class for deepwater inspections
“We are delighted to welcome the talented SEA-KIT team to the Fugro family,” says Henk van Dalen, Director Blue Robotics at Fugro. “We look forward to utilizing their knowledge and expanding the SEA-KIT product offering for the maritime industry as we continue to drive innovation in this area. We are committed to a smooth integration process and will work closely with our new team members to maximize value for our combined customer base.”
The transaction is expected to close before the end of 2023, subject to customary closing conditions. SEA-KIT will continue to offer its customers high-quality UPS products for cost-efficient operations with increased safety and significantly reduced carbon emissions. New advances to look forward to as part of this acquisition include the launch of the next generation of UPSs, the 18-meter Blue Eclipse UPS, specifically designed for rapid inspection of pipelines and deepwater facilities, and a zero-emission hydrogen-powered UPS.
According to Fugro, it is the world’s leading geodata specialist. In 2022, turnover amounted to €1.8 billion. Fugro is listed on Euronext Amsterdam.
