HII Invests in Sea Machines to Expand Unmanned Offerings

Huntington Ingalls Industries announced that its technical solutions division has completed an equity investment in Sea Machines Robotics, a Boston-based technology company that develops software for unmanned surface vessels.

Andy Green, president of HII's technical solutions division and a Potomac Officers Club member, said the investment represents the company's drive for innovation and competencies across the unmanned systems market, HII said Wednesday.

“Sea Machines is making significant strides in the USV industry. We want to invest in their growth and continue to form complementary partnerships across this key domain,” said Green, a two-time Wash100 awardee.

Founded in 2015, Sea Machines specializes in developing autonomous technology and advanced control systems for workboats and other commercial surface vessels.

The company has been globally serving customers in the commercial, recreational and government market sectors, HII said.

Duane Fotheringham, president of unmanned systems at HII's technical solutions division, said the partnership provides HII with immediate access to high-end solutions for government work in the USV sector. 

“Sea Machines’ products align well with our existing autonomy capabilities, and we look forward to collaborating with their team on USV pursuits,” Fotheringham said.

Earlier in 2020, HII also expanded its offerings in the autonomous and unmanned maritime systems industry through its acquisition of Hydroid. Hydroid's REMUS and Seaglider product lines expanded HII's unmanned underwater vehicle capabilities, the company said. 

HII is a major military shipbuilding company that serves customers from the government and industry. The company's technical solutions division supports national security missions with unmanned systems, defense and federal solutions and with nuclear and environmental services.