Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
U.S. Navy Selects Blue Water Autonomy for Autonomous Ocean Surveying Contract
Blue Water Autonomy has been awarded a multiple-award contract by the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) to conduct high-resolution ocean floor mapping using its autonomous vessels. This contract, which has a ceiling of $40 million, allows Blue Water Autonomy to leverage its technology for deep ocean surveys across the Indian and Pacific oceans. The significance of this contract lies in the Navy's increasing reliance on uncrewed systems to perform demanding ocean surveys, which traditionally require costly crewed ships. By utilizing autonomous vessels, the Navy aims to reduce operational costs and risks to personnel while enhancing its surveying capabilities over vast ocean areas. Looking ahead, Blue Water Autonomy plans to complete its first Liberty Class vessel for the U.S. Navy this year. This 190-foot autonomous ship is designed for long-duration missions and can operate over 10,000 nautical miles, showcasing the company's commitment to advancing autonomous maritime technology.
Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence / Cognition Design / Development Maritime Markets / Industries News
Tennant Achieves 30% Reduction in Product-Use Emissions Amid Autonomous Cleaning Growth
Tennant Company has reported a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from product use compared to its 2021 baseline, as detailed in its 2026 Sustainability Report. This significant achievement highlights the potential of commercial cleaning operations to contribute to environmental sustainability. The report indicates that Tennant sourced 99% of its electricity from renewable sources in 2025, showcasing the company's commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. The advancements in battery-powered equipment, autonomous cleaning, and detergent-free technologies are enabling organizations to minimize water, energy, and chemical usage while maintaining effective cleaning performance. Looking ahead, Tennant's sustainability strategy is strengthened by insights from its first Double Materiality Assessment, which will guide future investments and innovation. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Infrastructure News autonomous cleaning cleaning robots cleaning technology commercial cleaning robots
Oceaneering Upgrades Ocean Intervention II Vessel for Simultaneous Autonomous Survey Missions
Oceaneering International, Inc. has announced an upgrade to its Subsea Robotics segment, enhancing the capabilities of the Ocean Intervention II (OI2), an oceanographic research vessel owned by the company. This upgrade enables the vessel to conduct simultaneous autonomous survey operations, significantly improving efficiency in underwater research. The announcement was made today, highlighting Oceaneering's commitment to advancing marine technology and research capabilities. The enhancements are expected to facilitate more comprehensive data collection and analysis in various oceanographic studies, positioning Oceaneering as a leader in the field of subsea exploration.
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First Marine Solutions and Bedrock Form Strategic Partnership to Enhance Subsea Surveying in Europe
First Marine Solutions has entered into a multi-year strategic partnership with Bedrock Ocean Exploration to enhance autonomous subsea survey capabilities across the UK and Europe. This collaboration will establish a UK and European operational hub for Bedrock’s autonomous ocean intelligence technology at FMS’ Aberdeen headquarters, integrating Bedrock’s technology with FMS’ offshore expertise. The partnership is significant as it allows for the deployment of Bedrock’s autonomous underwater vehicles at FMS’ facility, enabling local operations and maintenance without the need for equipment transport to the United States. This arrangement aims to provide clients in offshore energy and subsea infrastructure with a comprehensive solution that combines data acquisition, operational support, and industry-leading survey capabilities. Looking ahead, both companies plan to work together to promote their new capabilities and their impact on maritime industries. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
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AeroVironment Enhances Mayhem 10 Drone with Autonomous Swarm Capabilities for Military Use
AeroVironment is enhancing its Mayhem 10 launched effects system by integrating autonomous swarm capabilities through a partnership with Applied Intuition. This new software allows multiple Mayhem 10 drones to coordinate missions under a single operator's supervision, addressing future U.S. Army requirements for autonomous systems that extend battlefield reach and reduce soldier workload. The integration of Applied Intuition’s Acuity ISR/Strike software enables collaborative behaviors among Mayhem 10 aircraft, allowing them to share targeting information and adapt to threats in real-time. A recent demonstration showcased the drones' ability to synchronize actions during various test scenarios, highlighting the importance of autonomous systems in modern military operations. Looking ahead, the flexibility of the Mayhem 10 platform, which can carry payloads of up to 10 pounds and operate in GPS-denied environments, positions it as a versatile tool for intelligence, surveillance, and precision strikes. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Military
Archer Aviation Launches Halo Autonomous VTOL for Long-Range Cargo Transport
Archer Aviation has introduced Halo, an autonomous hybrid-electric VTOL aircraft designed for long-range cargo missions. This innovative aircraft can take off like a helicopter and fly long distances like an airplane, making it suitable for operations in areas where traditional aircraft cannot operate. The significance of Halo lies in its dual-use platform, developed in collaboration with Anduril, which allows for both commercial logistics and defense applications. The aircraft features a series hybrid-electric powertrain and dual tiltrotors, optimizing efficiency and reducing noise, making it ideal for suburban environments. Looking ahead, Halo's modular cargo bay and flexible deployment options promise to enhance operational efficiency. The aircraft can be transported in standard shipping containers, facilitating easy assembly at various locations. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
News
Vertical Aerospace Partners with Near Earth Autonomy for Valo Aircraft's Autonomous Flight Capabilities
Vertical Aerospace has partnered with Near Earth Autonomy to enhance its Valo aircraft with advanced autonomous flight capabilities. This collaboration aims to integrate Near Earth's autonomy software with Honeywell Aerospace's Anthem digital cockpit, facilitating the development of self-flying technology for defense and commercial aviation. The partnership is significant as it allows Vertical to leverage Near Earth's extensive experience in autonomous aviation, which includes systems developed for military applications. By utilizing a shared technology stack, the companies aim to reduce technical risks associated with expanding autonomous features in the Valo aircraft, which is designed for both defense and commercial markets. Looking ahead, Vertical plans to pursue defense programs while also preparing for automated commercial operations. The Valo aircraft, featuring hybrid-electric propulsion, is capable of flying up to 1,000 miles and carrying payloads of up to 2,400 pounds, making it a versatile option for various operational roles. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Transportation
Airbus debuts U145 autonomous helicopter drone with no cockpit for military missions
Airbus Helicopters has unveiled a new autonomous aircraft derived from its widely-used H145 platform, marking a significant advancement in aviation technology. The announcement was made during the International Paris Air Show, which took place from June 19 to June 25, 2023. This innovative aircraft aims to enhance operational efficiency and safety in various sectors, including medical transport, search and rescue, and logistics. The motivation behind this development stems from the growing demand for unmanned aerial vehicles that can perform complex missions with minimal human intervention. By leveraging advanced automation and artificial intelligence, Airbus Helicopters seeks to address challenges in urban air mobility and improve response times in critical situations. The aircraft is designed to operate in diverse environments, showcasing its versatility and potential for integration into existing air traffic systems. Through rigorous testing and collaboration with regulatory bodies, Airbus aims to ensure that the new autonomous H145 meets safety standards and can be deployed effectively in real-world scenarios. This initiative reflects Airbus Helicopters' commitment to innovation and its vision for the future of aviation, where autonomous systems play a crucial role in enhancing air transport capabilities.
Survey on AI‐Enabled Computer Vision Technologies and Applications for Space Robotic Missions
In June 2026, the Journal of Field Robotics published a comprehensive study exploring advancements in robotic technologies and their applications in various fields. The research, conducted by a team of experts in robotics and engineering, highlights innovative methodologies that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of robotic systems. The study focuses on the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, which significantly improve the decision-making capabilities of robots in real-world environments. This advancement is particularly relevant in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and disaster response, where precision and adaptability are crucial. The findings were presented during a conference held in a prominent robotics research hub, attracting attention from industry leaders and academic scholars alike. The motivation behind this research stems from the growing demand for automation and smart technologies in response to global challenges, including labor shortages and the need for increased productivity. By employing rigorous testing and validation processes, the researchers demonstrated the practical applications of their robotic systems, showcasing successful case studies that underline the potential for widespread adoption. The publication aims to inform and inspire further innovations in the field, ultimately contributing to the evolution of robotics as a transformative force in society.
SURVEY ARTICLE
Klein Marine Systems Introduces MANTIS UUV with SmartArray Technology™ for Autonomous Underwater Missions
Klein Marine Systems, recognized as a global leader in advanced side scan sonar and underwater imaging technology, has unveiled its latest innovation, the MANTIS UUV. This integrated multi-channel side scan sonar system is specifically designed to enhance unmanned underwater vehicles by providing high-quality imaging and onboard processing capabilities. The announcement was made today, highlighting the company’s commitment to improving underwater exploration and data collection. The MANTIS UUV aims to streamline integration processes, making it a valuable tool for various applications in marine research and industry.
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Revolutionizing Deep-water Cable Route Surveys with Autonomous Platforms
Saildrone, in collaboration with Meta, has achieved a significant milestone by completing the first autonomous deep-water cable route survey in the North Atlantic. This groundbreaking project, which took place recently, sets a new standard for offshore mapping techniques. The initiative aims to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of underwater surveys, crucial for the development of future telecommunications infrastructure. By utilizing advanced autonomous technology, Saildrone's innovative approach allows for comprehensive data collection in challenging marine environments, paving the way for safer and more reliable underwater cable installations.
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