Autonomy is recognised by the UK Government as one of 8 ‘great technologies and a significant specialism in Hampshire.
Marine autonomy and robotics are predicted to create a global market worth $136 billion over the next 15 years – with the UK securing a 10% share of this market.
Two leading marine autonomy companies based in Hampshire, L3 ASV (autonomous surface vehicles) and Saab Seaeye (underwater autonomous vehicles) are at the cutting edge. These businesses are well placed to capitalise on growing global opportunities around marine autonomy and robotics, transmission and remote sensing via satellite communication.
L3 ASV is a truly great Hampshire success story – within seven years, from start up, they are now recognised as a world leader in marine autonomous service vehicles.
L3 ASV has designed and built over 80 vessels which are deployed across the world in the service of the oil and gas, scientific and defence sectors.
They work closely with Hampshire’s world-class marine research and innovation network, including the National Oceanography Centre, Southampton Marine and Maritime Institute and the University of Portsmouth.
In September 2018 the company was acquired by New York headquartered L3 Technologies, an agile innovator and leading provider of global ISR, communications and networked systems, and electronic systems for military, homeland security and commercial aviation customers.
“Autonomous capabilities for surface ships and undersea vessels are top priorities for our naval and commercial maritime customers, and we are increasing our investments to lead in this strategic growth area and strengthen L3’s position as a leading supplier of maritime solutions,” said Christopher E. Kubasik, L3’s Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President. “The addition of L3 ASV enables us to deliver both unmanned surface and undersea vehicle technologies to an expanded international customer base and take a prime contractor position on major unmanned systems.”
Business Hampshire is the economic development service of Hampshire County Council.
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