Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
HII and MetalCraft Marine's Autonomous ROMULUS USV Passes Critical DoW Test for U.S. Navy
HII announced that its autonomous Watcher small Unmanned Surface Vessel (sUSV), based on the ROMULUS-25, has successfully passed a critical test recognized by the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). This achievement marks the completion of the Production-Ready, Inexpensive, Maritime Expeditionary (PRIME) prototype project, which aims to develop smaller autonomous vessels for the U.S. Marine Corps. The successful testing of the Watcher sUSV is significant as it meets the operational needs of the Department of the Navy for interceptors capable of autonomous operations in contested waters. HII's Odyssey Autonomous Control System (ACS) enhances the vessel's capabilities, allowing for intelligent navigation and mission planning, which are crucial for modern naval operations. Looking ahead, HII is positioned for a potential transition to production under Other Transaction Authority (OTA) agreements. The company aims to continue delivering innovative autonomous solutions that enhance naval readiness and operational flexibility, as stated by HII's leadership and MetalCraft Marine's General Manager.
hii metalcraft romulus usv autonomy critical dow test
HII Enters $900M Agreements with Path Robotics and GrayMatter Robotics for Shipbuilding Automation
Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) has announced long-term performance-based production agreements with Path Robotics and GrayMatter Robotics, potentially worth up to $900 million over seven years. These agreements aim to enhance shipbuilding capabilities through advanced robotic technologies, including welding and sanding systems. The significance of these agreements lies in HII's commitment to invest in automation that can adapt to complex manufacturing environments. Eric Chewning, HII's executive vice president, emphasized the importance of these partnerships in redefining robotics in shipbuilding, particularly under the High-Yield Production Robotics (HYPR) program launched in April. Looking ahead, HII plans to accelerate the development and deployment of physical AI technologies across various U.S. Navy shipbuilding programs. The agreements include a two-stage approach focusing on Navy-grade development and delivery, with the goal of integrating high-precision production techniques into autonomous production lines. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence / Cognition Construction Defense / Security Design / Development Earnings
HII Establishes Long-term Production Agreements with Path Robotics and GrayMatter Robotics
HII has signed long-term performance-based production agreements with GrayMatter Robotics and Path Robotics to enhance advanced physical AI automation in U.S. Navy shipbuilding programs. These agreements aim to improve the efficiency and capacity of shipbuilding operations, including aircraft carriers and submarines. The collaboration is significant as it represents a strategic investment in the future of American shipbuilding, focusing on resilience and efficiency in the industrial base. HII plans to allocate up to $900 million in shipbuilding work to both companies over seven years, contingent on meeting specific performance milestones. Looking ahead, the partnerships are expected to drive substantial advancements in robotics and autonomous systems, enabling the delivery of Navy-grade production at scale. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
hii production agreement path robotics graymatter robotics
HII Secures Option Year Contract for 200 U.S. Navy Lionfish Undersea Vehicles
HII has been awarded an option year production contract for the U.S. Navy's Lionfish small unmanned undersea vehicle (SUUV), which is based on the REMUS 300 platform. This contract, announced on June 7, 2026, continues the momentum of the Lionfish program, which achieved a significant milestone with the completion of its 42nd vehicle at HII’s Pocasset facility by the end of 2025. The five-year program could scale to a total of 200 vehicles, with a contract value exceeding $347 million. The Lionfish SUUV is designed for various undersea warfare missions, including mine countermeasures, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), anti-submarine warfare, and electronic warfare operations. The U.S. Navy's decision to exercise this option year contract reflects confidence in the platform's operational performance and adaptability, as stated by Duane Fotheringham, president of HII’s Unmanned Systems group. Looking ahead, HII aims to enhance the capabilities of the Lionfish program to meet evolving mission requirements for sailors and marines. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication, but the continued investment in this program indicates a strong commitment to advancing autonomous systems in naval operations.
hii contract award u.s. navy lionfish unmanned undersea vehicle uuv
HII Aims for 15% Increase in Shipyard Throughput Using Robotics for Navy Warships
HII, the largest military shipbuilder in the US, is targeting a 15% increase in shipyard throughput this year to expedite deliveries to the US Navy. The strategy involves workforce expansion, infrastructure upgrades, and enhanced use of technology, particularly physical AI, in shipbuilding operations. Currently, around 40 ships are under construction or modernization at HII's Ingalls and Newport News facilities. This initiative is significant as it highlights the need for skilled workers and modernized production infrastructure to support higher volumes in the US maritime industrial base. HII's plan includes hiring skilled workers, modernizing shipyard infrastructure, and expanding the industrial base for naval construction. Eric Chewning, HII’s executive vice president, emphasized the importance of building on current momentum to deliver ships at an increased pace. Looking ahead, HII plans to outsource over 2 million hours of work in 2026, marking a 178% increase from 2024. This distributed shipbuilding strategy aims to enhance shipbuilding capacity and resilience in the supply chain. As demand for naval vessels grows, HII's approach underscores the critical role of advanced manufacturing technologies in boosting US shipbuilding capacity.
Military
New mini submarine-like drone from HII can dive 328 feet deep with 10 hour battery life
Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII), a prominent U.S. military shipbuilder, has successfully delivered the first REMUS 130 unmanned underwater vehicle. This significant milestone was achieved as part of HII's commitment to advancing maritime technology. The delivery took place in October 2023, showcasing the company's ongoing efforts to enhance the capabilities of the U.S. Navy and other defense partners. The REMUS 130 is designed for various underwater missions, including reconnaissance and surveillance, addressing the growing need for advanced unmanned systems in naval operations. This development reflects HII's strategic focus on innovation and its role in supporting national security objectives through cutting-edge maritime solutions.
Military
HII Delivers First of the Newest REMUS Variant: 130
HII, the largest military shipbuilder in the United States and a leader in autonomous maritime systems, has successfully delivered the first REMUS 130 unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) to a U.S. ally. This significant achievement represents a milestone in the advancement of the next generation of the REMUS series, which is recognized as the most widely deployed autonomous underwater vehicle globally. The delivery underscores HII's commitment to enhancing maritime capabilities for allied nations and reflects the growing importance of autonomous systems in modern naval operations.
hii remus variant: 130
HII Builds on Manned-Unmanned Submarine Teaming Success with New Pentagon Deal Poised to Transform Undersea Warfare
HII, a prominent player in unmanned and autonomous maritime platforms, has secured a contract from the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) to develop a submarine Torpedo Tube Launch and Recovery (TTLR) system. This innovative system aims to autonomously deploy and recover HII’s REMUS unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) from U.S. Navy submarines. The contract underscores the growing emphasis on advanced maritime technologies and the need for efficient underwater operations within the Navy. The project is expected to enhance the capabilities of U.S. submarines, enabling them to conduct missions with greater effectiveness and safety.
hii manned-unmanned submarine teaming pentagon undersea warfare
HII partners with Path Robotics, GrayMatter Robotics to accelerate shipbuilding
GrayMatter Robotics and Path Robotics are enhancing their collaboration with HII, a prominent shipbuilding company in the United States. This partnership aims to accelerate the shipbuilding process by integrating advanced robotics technology into HII's operations. The initiative is part of a broader effort to innovate and streamline production methods within the shipbuilding industry. By leveraging the expertise of both robotics firms, HII seeks to improve efficiency and reduce costs in its manufacturing processes. This strategic alliance marks a significant step forward in modernizing shipbuilding practices, reflecting the growing trend of automation in traditional industries.
Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence / Cognition Defense / Security Design / Development Manufacturing Maritime
HII Accelerates ROMULUS USV Program: Four New ROMULUS Vessels Head into Production
HII, the largest military shipbuilder in the United States and a leader in autonomous maritime systems, has unveiled plans to produce four additional ROMULUS 151 vessels. This announcement was made today, with the construction set to take place at Breaux Brothers Enterprises in Louisiana. This expansion comes alongside the ongoing construction of an existing ROMULUS 151 vessel, highlighting HII's commitment to enhancing its fleet of advanced maritime technology. The initiative aims to bolster the company's capabilities in autonomous systems, reflecting the growing demand for innovative naval solutions.
hii romulus usv
HII Introduces Distributed Maritime Operations Framework in Support of U.S. Navy’s “Hedge Strategy”
At the Navy League of the United States Sea-Air-Space Expo 2026 in National Harbor, Maryland, HII (NYSE: HII) is set to unveil an innovative framework designed to enhance joint, mission-enabled maritime operations. This next-generation framework will integrate HII’s extensive portfolio, which includes naval warships, modular and containerized capabilities, autonomous unmanned systems, and open-architecture mission technologies. The initiative aligns with the U.S. Navy's chief of naval operations’ “Hedge Strategy” Fighting Instructions, emphasizing the importance of modernizing maritime capabilities to meet evolving defense needs. The expo, taking place in 2026, serves as a platform for HII to demonstrate its commitment to advancing naval operations through cutting-edge technology and strategic innovation.
hii distributed maritime operations framework u.s. navy hedge strategy
HII Teams with GrayMatter Robotics to Integrate Physical AI into Manned and Unmanned Shipbuilding
HII and GrayMatter Robotics (GMR) have entered into a memorandum of understanding to explore the integration of GMR’s Physical AI technology into shipbuilding operations. The agreement, signed at GMR's headquarters, aims to enhance production efficiency, bolster the maritime industrial base, and support the shipbuilding workforce. Key technologies under consideration include autonomous surface preparation, coating, and inspection processes. The signing ceremony featured Eric Chewning, HII’s executive vice president of maritime systems and corporate strategy, alongside Ariyan Kabir, CEO and co-founder of GrayMatter Robotics. This collaboration seeks to innovate and modernize shipbuilding practices, ultimately improving throughput and operational effectiveness in the industry.
hii graymatter robotics physical ai unmanned shipbuilding
HII Teams with Path Robotics to Integrate Physical AI into Manned and Unmanned Shipbuilding
HII and Path Robotics have entered into a memorandum of understanding to explore the integration of Path's physical artificial intelligence for welding into HII's shipbuilding operations. The agreement, signed today at Path Robotics' headquarters, aims to enhance production efficiency, bolster the maritime industrial base, and support the shipbuilding workforce. The ceremony was attended by HII's executive vice president of maritime systems and corporate strategy, Eric Chewning, and Path Robotics CEO and co-founder, Andy Lonsberry. This collaboration reflects a commitment to advancing technology in the shipbuilding sector.
hii
Australian Maritime College and HII Report Near-Perfect Availability as REMUS 100 Completes 935 Missions with Only Two Days of Downtime
The Australian Maritime College (AMC) and HII have announced a significant achievement regarding the reliability of AMC’s Legacy REMUS 100 autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). This milestone was revealed today, highlighting the advancements made in the technology and performance of the AUV. The collaboration between AMC and HII aims to enhance underwater exploration and data collection capabilities, addressing the growing demand for reliable and efficient marine technology. The REMUS 100 is designed for various applications, including environmental monitoring and underwater research, making it a vital tool for marine scientists and researchers. This development underscores the commitment of both organizations to push the boundaries of autonomous underwater operations and improve the reliability of such technologies in real-world applications.
hii australian maritime college (amc)
HII Successfully Demonstrates Sea Launcher, Ship-Based Automated Launch and Recovery of REMUS Autonomous Underwater Vehicle
HII, a leading manufacturer of autonomous underwater unmanned vehicles, announced the successful shipboard deployment and recovery of a REMUS autonomous underwater vehicle. This achievement was made possible through the use of the company’s automated launch and recovery system, known as Sea Launcher. The event highlights HII's advancements in underwater technology and its commitment to enhancing operational capabilities in marine environments.
hii sea launcher ship-based automated launch and recovery remus autonomous underwater vehicle
HII Expands European Unmanned Operations with New Facility in Portchester, UK
HII, a prominent manufacturer of autonomous surface and underwater unmanned vehicles, has announced the expansion of its facility in Portchester, U.K., effectively doubling its size. This significant development comes as the company aims to enhance its production capabilities and meet the growing demand for unmanned technologies. The expansion is part of HII's strategic efforts to strengthen its position in the market and support advancements in autonomous vehicle manufacturing. With this investment, HII is poised to further innovate and deliver cutting-edge solutions in the unmanned vehicle sector.
HII Announces Major Milestone for ROMULUS USV Technology
Executives from HII visited Breaux Brothers Enterprises in Loreauville, Louisiana, where they revealed that the construction of a prototype for their new unmanned surface vessel (USV) family, named ROMULUS, has reached 30% completion. This development is part of HII's ongoing efforts to innovate in maritime technology. The prototype is on track for sea trials, which are scheduled to take place in the fourth quarter of 2026, demonstrating the company's commitment to advancing its capabilities in unmanned maritime systems.
hii romulus usv
HII and Babcock Join Forces to Integrate Unmanned Underwater Vehicles with Submarine Weapon Handling and Launch Systems
Babcock International Group and HII have entered into a memorandum of understanding to integrate HII’s REMUS unmanned underwater vehicles with Babcock’s advanced submarine Weapon Handling and Launch Systems. This collaboration aims to enhance the autonomous launch and recovery capabilities of UUVs through submarine torpedo tubes, thereby bolstering the undersea operational advantages of allied navies. This initiative marks the inaugural program of its kind within Babcock's Mission Systems division, reflecting a significant step forward in military maritime technology.
hii babcock unmanned underwater vehicles submarine weapon handling and launch systems dsei 2025
HII Completes 750th REMUS Unmanned Undersea Vehicle for German Navy
HII, the largest military shipbuilder in the United States and a pioneer in advanced unmanned autonomous technologies, has announced the successful completion of its 750th REMUS unmanned undersea vehicle (UUV). This significant milestone was reached at HII's unmanned facility located in Pocasset, Massachusetts. The 750th unit, a REMUS 300, is set to be delivered to the German navy, highlighting the growing demand for advanced maritime technology solutions. This achievement underscores HII's commitment to innovation and its role as a leader in the defense sector.
hii 750th remus unmanned undersea vehicle (uuv) german navy
Shield AI and HII Partner to Accelerate Modular Cross-Domain Mission Autonomy Solutions
HII, the largest military shipbuilder in the United States, has partnered with Shield AI, a company specializing in advanced autonomy software and aircraft technology. This collaboration aims to enhance modular, cross-domain mission autonomy, which is increasingly crucial for modern military operations. The announcement was made today, highlighting the commitment of both companies to innovate in defense technology. By combining HII's extensive experience in shipbuilding with Shield AI's cutting-edge software capabilities, the partnership seeks to improve operational efficiency and effectiveness across various military domains. This initiative reflects a growing trend in the defense sector to integrate advanced technologies for enhanced mission readiness and adaptability.
shield ai hii
Thales and HII Partners to Develop Advanced Autonomous Undersea Mine Countermeasure Capabilities
HII and Thales have successfully integrated the Thales SAMDIS1 600 sonar with HII’s next-generation REMUS 620 medium unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV). This significant achievement was announced during a recent field exercise, showcasing the capabilities of the advanced sonar system in conjunction with the UUV. The collaboration aims to enhance underwater surveillance and operational efficiency, addressing the growing demand for advanced maritime technologies. The integration process involved rigorous testing and validation to ensure optimal performance in various underwater environments. This development marks a notable advancement in the field of unmanned maritime systems, reflecting both companies' commitment to innovation and excellence in defense technology.
thales hii partnership autonomous undersea mine countermeasure mcm
HII and Hitachi Lock In Multi-Year REMUS 300 UUV Production Agreement
HII has secured an order from Hitachi, Ltd. for over a dozen REMUS 300 small uncrewed undersea vehicles (SUUVs). This multi-year program will see the delivery of these advanced vehicles, enhancing capabilities in underwater exploration and operations. The partnership reflects a growing demand for innovative maritime technology, as both companies aim to leverage the REMUS 300's advanced features for various applications. The deal underscores HII's commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions in the defense and maritime sectors.
hii hitachi remus 300 uuv production agreement
HII Delivers Initial Lionfish SUUVs to U.S. Navy Under Multi-Year Program
HII has successfully delivered the first two Lionfish small uncrewed undersea vehicles (SUUVs) to the U.S. Navy as part of a significant contract valued at over $347 million. This delivery marks a crucial step in a program that has the potential to expand to a fleet of 200 vehicles. The initiative aims to enhance the Navy's capabilities in underwater operations, reflecting a growing emphasis on advanced unmanned systems in military applications. The delivery took place in October 2023, showcasing HII's commitment to providing innovative solutions for national defense.
hii lionfish suuv u.s. navy multi-year program
HII Tops 700 REMUS Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles Sold
HII, the largest shipbuilder in the United States and a prominent provider of all-domain technologies and solutions, has achieved a significant milestone by selling over 700 REMUS uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) to customers worldwide. This accomplishment not only underscores HII's dominance in the market but also enhances its reputation as the leading producer of these advanced underwater systems. The sales reflect a growing demand for innovative undersea technology, positioning HII at the forefront of the industry as it continues to expand its global footprint.
hii remus uncrewed underwater vehicles (uuv)
HII’s Mission Technologies Tests Next-Generation REMUS 620 UUV on US Navy Confidence Course
Uncrewed Systems, a division of HII’s Mission Technologies, showcased its next-generation medium-class unmanned underwater vehicle, the REMUS 620, during the U.S. Navy UUV Confidence Course held in Bangor, Washington. The vehicle was transported from its manufacturing facility in Pocasset, Massachusetts, to Keyport, Washington, where it successfully completed a series of pre-mission checks and ballasting procedures. This participation underscores the company's commitment to advancing underwater technology and enhancing the capabilities of unmanned systems for naval operations.
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