Australian OSV operator MMA Offshore has partnered with Houston-based developer of autonomous maritime systems Nauticus Robotics. Under a memorandum of understanding, the companies will focus on developing an integrated service offering in the Asia-Pacific region utilising Nauticus artificial intelligence-enabled subsea inspection, maintenance and repair (IMR) robots called Aquanauts.
The deal, which follows on from the announcement to deploy Aquanaut in Brazil to service Petrobras assets and opening operating bases in Norway and Scotland, also provides a pathway to integrate Nauticus’ services into MMA Offshore’s offerings with smaller vessels utilised for IMR to “offer a more economical solution compared to conventional methods”.
“MMA is excited to have entered into this exclusive partnership with Nauticus Robotics and looks forward to being able to integrate their leading autonomous robotic and AI software technology into its subsea services,” said Tom Radic, executive general manager subsea at MMA Offshore. “This partnership will ensure our clients have access to the latest autonomous and machine learning technology to help meet their subsea requirements.”
“Aligning with an established industry player, such as MMA Offshore, in multiple offshore markets provides a significant opportunity for Nauticus to continue expanding its reach and international customer base,” added Nicolaus Radford, founder and CEO of Nauticus.
