Kraken Robotics has unveiled its latest venture through its subsidiary,Kraken Robotic Systems Inc., by inaugurating a state-of-the-art 4,000 square foot facility known as the Unmanned Maritime Vehicles Facility (UMVF). This new establishment is situated at the centre for Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship (COVE) in Dartmouth,Nova Scotia.
Unmanned Maritime Vehicles (UMVs) encompass a range of robotic systems that function both underwater and on the surface without the need for onboard operators. This category includes Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs), Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), and Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs). These vehicles vary in size from compact units to mid-sized ships or small submarines, and they are outfitted with an array of sensors for mapping, dialogue, and navigation. UMVs serve diverse purposes, including naval mine detection, seafloor mapping, inspection of underwater infrastructure, and environmental assessments.
The Handling Systems Group at Kraken has already transitioned to the new facility, where they will continue the growth of Kraken’s Tentacle Winch and Autonomous Launch and Recovery Systems. Additionally, the UMVF will serve as a testing ground for various underwater robotic platforms, such as the KATFISH high-speed towed Synthetic Aperture Sonar (SAS) system and the THUNDERFISH AUV. A dockside remote operations container has also been set up, which will be accessible to residents of COVE.
Karl Kenny, President & CEO of Kraken, expressed enthusiasm about the new facility, stating, “We are thrilled to launch our Unmanned Maritime Vehicles Facility at COVE in Dartmouth. The global market for UMVs is witnessing remarkable growth and investment across both military and commercial sectors. While the majority of the current UMV market is military-focused, there is a notable increase in adoption among commercial industries, including oil and gas exploration, hydrographic and oceanographic surveys, environmental monitoring, and search and recovery operations. Scientific research organizations are also increasingly utilizing UMVs for oceanic research and maritime surveys.”
jim Hanlon, CEO of COVE, remarked, “we are witnessing a transformative era in unmanned maritime robotics, akin to the revolution brought about by unmanned aerial drones in the early 2000s. Both military and commercial sectors are recognizing the potential of ocean drones and robotics for various missions. Maritime organizations are keen on enhancing their return on investment by employing drones,thereby minimizing risks to personnel. This cultural shift is becoming evident throughout the maritime industry. Kraken’s extensive technology and expertise in underwater robotics are invaluable, and we are excited about their establishment of the Unmanned Maritime Vehicles Facility at COVE.”
