James Fisher and Sons plc (James Fisher), has announced its minority participation in the Series D funding round of US-based Ocean Aero, creator of the Triton Autonomous Underwater and Surface Vehicle (AUSV).
This partnership brings together James Fisher and Ocean Aero’s complementary capabilities in marine monitoring and subsea intervention of offshore energy assets and critical underwater infrastructure. The wind and solar powered Triton is the next generation, low-emission autonomous subsea vessel that can meet the growing demand for net-zero, smart, sustainable solutions, enhancing James Fisher’s position in a rapidly evolving market.
Ocean Aero designs, manufactures, and operates the world’s first and only AUSV, the Triton. Operating both above and below the surface, the Triton collects and transmits data from any location without the need for on-board or nearby crews.
The technology aligns closely with James Fisher’s dual-use strategic approach, across offshore energy and defence verticals, allowing access to cutting-edge technology for customers.
Sean Huff, Head of Ventures & Chief Digital Officer at James Fisher and Sons plc said: “The Ocean Aero team and technology are both incredibly impressive – and we are delighted to support their international expansion through the James Fisher global network of customers.
“Ocean Aero’s autonomous platform complements our established marine and subsea capabilities and strengthens our ability to deliver innovative solutions for our customers across the Group. This is exactly the type of technology that supports James Fisher’s long-term strategic direction. We look forward to working closely together to drive growth and expansion.”
Jean Vernet, CEO at James Fisher and Sons plc added: “This investment reflects our commitment to entrepreneurial-led disruptive innovation as a core driver of James Fisher’s future growth. By partnering with Ocean Aero, who are pioneering autonomous technology, we are enhancing our ability to serve and support customers across our global markets while opening new opportunities within the Blue Economy, the energy transition, and global security.”
Kevin Decker, CEO at Ocean Aero said: “Our partnership with James Fisher represents an evolution of Ocean Aero’s ability to reach critical customers around the world. By going to market with James Fisher’s respected team of experienced professionals around the world in the defence and energy space, we will learn from them, increase our footprint, and ultimately deliver even better world-class services to our customers than we could do so alone.
“We are already benefitting from this investment and commercial agreement and look forward to growing with James Fisher in the years to come.”