WOR — Header (Logo + Menu Only)
WOR — Header with Mega Menu (Categories & MPU Banner)
2 Mins Read

Fugro gains full ownership of SEA-KIT International, strengthening its leadership in marine robotics solutions

By Wind Energy
Blue Essence North Sea USV 08 resize plus
Blue Essence North Sea USV 08 resize plus

Fugro is pleased to announce it has reached a binding agreement for the acquisition of the remaining shares in SEA-KIT International, a long-standing partner in the development of hi-tech uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) for low carbon emission maritime operations and research.

 

For several years, Fugro and SEA-KIT have collaborated closely to push the boundaries of USV technology, achieving numerous breakthroughs and milestones along the way, including:

  • Delivery of the first commercially available remotely operated USV and electric powered remotely operated vehicle (ROV) combi solution to the offshore asset inspection and monitoring market;
  • Approvals from various authorities in Europe, Middle East and Australia to operate the jointly developed USV and ROV combi solution through a global network of remote operations centres;
  • Delivery of five Fugro Blue Essence® 12 metre USVs spread across all key regions;
  • Completing the world’s first fully remote inspection of offshore wind farm assets carried out by an USV and integrated ROV;
  • Winning multiple awards globally for our innovations contributing to safer, faster and more sustainable offshore operations.

 

Ben Simpson, CEO and founder of SEA-KIT International, has been a key leader in the partnership, playing a fundamental role in reshaping the maritime industry. His entrepreneurialism was instrumental in the growth and success of the SEA-KIT business. Under Ben’s leadership, SEA-KIT fostered a culture of innovation, excellence and adaptability, propelling the company to the forefront of the autonomous maritime industry.

 

“We are excited to welcome the talented SEA-KIT team into the Fugro family,” said Henk van Dalen, Director Blue Robotics at Fugro. “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 maximise the value delivered to our combined customer base.”

 

The transaction is expected to be completed before the end of 2023, subject to customary closing conditions. SEA-KIT will continue to provide clients with high-quality USV products for cost-effective operations with enhanced safety and significantly reduced carbon emissions. New advancements to look forward to in the wake of this acquisition includes the launch of the next generation of USVs, the Blue Eclipse® 18 metre USV specially designed for fast pipeline and deep-water asset inspection activities, as well as a zero-emissions hydrogen-powered USV.

My claim to fame on the renewables front is that I co-founded All-Energy, now the UK’s largest renewable and low carbon energy exhibition and conference. It was acquired by RX Global in 2011 and I am retained as a consultant creating the 600+/- speaker conference; as an ambassador for the show; and also handling PR for it. I was awarded MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2014; and became a Fellow the Society of Underwater Technology that same year and was its President in 2021-2022. Back in 2012 I was awarded the Scottish Green Energy ‘Outstanding Contribution’ Award. In addition to my stimulating and exciting role as Project Director of All-Energy, I also run a PR company, something I have done (scarily!) for over 50 years. My clients are all unique and so are their marketing requirements. Once I understand the end goal, I provide a range of marketing solutions to achieve those objectives In addition to All-Energy my clients include the Fugro Group; IMCA - the International Marine Contractors Association; and ad hoc work for a number of organisations.

You Might Also Like..

Leave A Reply