Kongsberg Maritime AS - 康斯贝格海事
Norwegian maritime technology company providing autonomous underwater vehicles, navigation, and sensor systems for commercial and defense sectors.
Kongsberg Maritime AS is a division of Norway's Kongsberg Gruppen providing sensors, navigation systems, dynamic positioning, vessel management, and autonomous underwater vehicles to commercial and defense customers worldwide. The company acquired Hydroid in 2008, gaining the REMUS AUV family originally developed at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. Product lines span bridge systems, sonar, subsea robotics, and long-range autonomous underwater vehicles including the HUGIN series.
Kongsberg Maritime serves offshore oil and gas, naval defense, hydrographic survey, search-and-rescue, and oceanographic research sectors globally. The company operates production and service facilities across Norway, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Asia-Pacific.
Primary type & automation activities this supplier delivers:
HUGIN AUV
Long-range autonomous underwater vehicle for survey, defense, and scientific applications.
Contact Kongsberg Maritime AS
WEBSITE
https://www.kongsberg.com/maritime/PHONE
47 32 28 82 00HEADQUARTERS
Norway
Company Facts
Founded
1946
Primary Role
Manufacturer
Company Size
-
Primary Region
Europe
Annual Sales
-
Funding Stage
-
Funding Total
-
Certifications & Memberships
Yushu Robotics Expands International Rental Business with G1 Robots for Events
At a lively private birthday party in the United States, two silver Yushu G1 robots danced on stage, delighting guests. This scene exemplifies Yushu Robotics' overseas rental business, with daily rental fees reaching $3,000, excluding shipping and operator costs. Robonow Global has assembled a fleet of over 50 G1 robots, covering the entire U.S. market. The significance of this rental model lies in its ability to lower ownership costs for businesses and assist in calculating return on investment, as noted by Ethan Qi, Deputy Director at Counterpoint Research. However, the actual tasks performed by these rented robots often focus on entertainment and educational demonstrations rather than industrial applications, indicating a gap in their deployment in manufacturing. Looking ahead, Yushu Robotics' founder Wang Xingxing highlighted the industry's challenge of insufficient embodiment intelligence. He predicts that humanoid robots may achieve capabilities similar to ChatGPT within 2 to 10 years. As of August 25, Yushu's stock price has seen a decline, reflecting market skepticism about the robots' practical applications in production lines, suggesting that significant advancements are still needed before widespread industrial adoption occurs.
Service Robots Entertainment Robotics Robot Rental Research and Development Industrial Automation
Insights from the Humanoid Robot Olympics: Challenges and Investment Strategies
During the second World Humanoid Robot Olympics, unexpected failures highlighted critical reliability issues in robotics, according to Kang Yu, General Manager of the Capital Markets Department at Shoucheng Holdings. She emphasized that the event serves as an extreme test for robots, revealing the challenges they must overcome before mass production. Kang noted that this year's competition featured an increased focus on autonomy, with robots attempting to perceive and understand their environment. However, the complexities of ensuring consistency among multiple robots and maintaining stability during unexpected scenarios remain significant hurdles for the industry. Looking ahead, Kang indicated that Shoucheng Holdings plans to analyze the problems observed during the competition to identify investment opportunities across the robotics supply chain. The company is diversifying its investments beyond humanoid robots to include joints, materials, data, and computational power, emphasizing a holistic approach to developing embodied intelligence in robotics.
Humanoid Robots Robot Reliability AI Development Investment Strategy Robotics Industry
U.S. Air Force Transforms Aircraft Inspections with Asylon's Robot Dog and Drones
The U.S. Air Force's Warner Robins Air Logistics Center has awarded Asylon a Phase III SBIR contract to advance the MARIA system, integrating the Guardian drone and DroneDog robot dog for automated aircraft inspections. This system allows for rapid digital mapping of aircraft, significantly reducing inspection time from days to hours while eliminating the risks associated with manual high-altitude checks. The collaboration between the DroneDog and Guardian drone enables comprehensive inspections, identifying anomalies and defects autonomously. The data is transmitted in real-time to the DroneIQ platform, allowing maintenance personnel to review results through 2D workflows or 3D digital twin views. The system's core value lies in its speed and consistency, ensuring that inspections cover the same points each time, thus minimizing the randomness of manual checks. Currently programmed for the Lockheed C-5 and C-130 aircraft, the long-term goal is to expand the system's capabilities across all Warner Robins aircraft types and the broader Air Force logistics framework. Asylon aims to enhance the MARIA system with advanced AI anomaly detection and explore humanoid fleet management for concurrent maintenance tasks.
Robotic Inspection Aerospace Technology Drone Technology Automation Military Logistics
UK Army Commander Highlights Limitations of Ground Robots in Complex Battlefield Exercises
As military forces worldwide seek to learn from the Ukraine conflict, unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) are being rapidly integrated into operations. However, a former frontline commander of the UK Army recently concluded that these machines are not always the right tools for the job. During a high-intensity exercise called 'Fusion Program Apex 6' at the National Training Center in California, UGVs were put to the test alongside troops from the UK and US. Colonel John Black from the Yorkshire Regiment noted that despite testing various use cases, significant challenges emerged regarding the practical application of ground robots in combat. Heavy logistical burdens were identified, as many mid-sized UGVs require trailers or flatbed trucks for transport, complicating battlefield mobility. Additionally, energy supply issues, including the need for extra batteries or fuel, further complicate operations. The exercise revealed that ideal operational ranges often fall short in complex terrains, with obstacles confusing most UGVs. Furthermore, maintaining stable remote control connections in a battlefield environment poses significant challenges. Black emphasized that while UGVs may address specific battlefield pain points, they are not universal solutions. The core value of such tests lies in understanding how unmanned systems can integrate into existing combat networks, potentially transforming the nature of warfare.
Unmanned Ground Vehicles Military Robotics Logistics Technology Autonomous Systems
Shanghai Startup LeapTech Develops Brain-Computer Interface for Stress Relief, Secures Funding
LeapTech, a startup from Shanghai, has developed a brain-computer interface (BCI) aimed at stress relief and has recently completed a seed funding round of nearly 10 million yuan. The funding, provided by angel investors with expertise in hard technology, consumer electronics, and manufacturing, will support the iteration of a non-invasive wearable BCI, the refinement of neural feedback algorithms, and the establishment of a production supply chain. Founded in October 2025 by Sun Huihua, a PhD from Shanghai Jiao Tong University, LeapTech focuses on consumer-grade BCI products that manage mental order, brain stability, and emotional energy. The non-invasive device collects EEG signals in real-time and intervenes acoustically when it detects stress or anxiety, guiding users into states of relaxation, meditation, focus, or sleep. Looking ahead, LeapTech plans to launch several wearable BCI products targeting relaxation, menstrual comfort, and energy maintenance. The company also aims to provide EEG collection hardware and acoustic solutions for smart headphones and wellness brands. As BCIs transition from medical devices to everyday consumer electronics, LeapTech seeks to address the challenge of maintaining mental well-being in an information-saturated world. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Brain-Computer Interfaces Mental Health Technology Wearable Devices AI Solutions
Jitai Intelligent Introduces Specialized Robots for High-Risk Energy Supply Chain Operations
At the World Robot Conference in Beijing, Jitai Intelligent showcased two specialized wall-climbing robots designed for high-risk energy operations. One robot is tailored for inspecting water-cooled walls in thermal power plants, while the other is for external inspections of wind turbine blades. These innovations address significant safety concerns and operational inefficiencies in energy supply chains. The importance of these robots lies in their ability to enhance safety and efficiency in hazardous environments. Traditional inspection methods in thermal power plants require scaffolding and expose workers to extreme risks, while wind turbine inspections often suffer from high error rates and limited operational windows. Jitai's robots utilize advanced technologies such as permanent magnetic adhesion and vacuum suction, significantly improving inspection accuracy and reducing the risk of accidents. Looking ahead, Jitai Intelligent aims to further develop its technology to meet the evolving needs of the energy sector. The company has established a comprehensive technology framework and is working on a national standard for boiler inspection robots, expected to be released by the end of 2026. As the demand for predictive maintenance grows, Jitai's focus on integrating robotics into existing safety management frameworks will be crucial for future deployments.
Wall-Climbing Robots Energy Sector Automation Safety Technology Predictive Maintenance
Yush Robot Appointed AI Experience Officer at Li Auto Following IPO Launch
On August 21, Li Auto announced the appointment of Yush Technology's humanoid robot, 'Benben', as the AI Experience Officer. This role includes a custom uniform and badge, showcasing the robot's capabilities in various public engagements. The significance of this appointment lies in the integration of humanoid robots into the automotive sector, particularly as Li Auto emphasizes the importance of AI in enhancing customer experience. 'Benben' recently demonstrated features of the Li L9 Livis, including zero-gravity seating and smart summon functionalities. Looking ahead, 'Benben' will participate in three public events, starting with the Beijing Automobile Museum on August 23. The robot's involvement reflects Li Auto's commitment to advancing AI technology, with plans for significant R&D investment in humanoid robotics as part of their broader strategy for 2026 and beyond. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Humanoid Robots AI Experience Automotive Technology Robotics IPO
Figure 03 Demonstrates Autonomous Climbing of 4.6-Meter Industrial Ladder
Figure 03 recently released a video showcasing its robot autonomously climbing a 4.6-meter industrial ladder and descending without remote control or pre-recorded paths. The robot must perform five simultaneous tasks: identifying rungs with cameras, accurately gripping, finding foot placements, controlling climbing rhythm, and redistributing its center of gravity with each movement. This achievement is significant as it deviates from traditional motion planning methods, utilizing the Helix system for real-time mapping and neural network calculations for joint movements. According to Adcock, this demonstration represents a real customer use case, highlighting the practical need for robots to navigate existing infrastructure in industrial settings, such as maintenance and material transport. The Figure 02 robot has been operational at BMW's Spartanburg plant for over a year, handling over 90,000 parts and running for more than 1,250 hours. Figure 03 builds on this by adding logistics sorting and vertical mobility, covering multiple levels within the facility. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Humanoid Robots Industrial Automation Robotics Technology AI Autonomous Systems
AirData Achieves 65 Million Drone Flights as FAA's BVLOS Rule Approaches Finalization
AirData, a drone fleet management platform based in California, has announced it has tracked over 65 million drone flights globally, encompassing more than 850,000 drones and 470,000 pilots. This milestone arrives as the FAA's Part 108 rule, which would permit routine beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations, nears its final review stage. The significance of this achievement lies in the rapid growth of commercial drone operations, with AirData adding 15 million flights in just 15 months, indicating a shift from trial programs to regular integration of drones in business operations. The upcoming Part 108 rule aims to redefine accountability in drone operations, shifting responsibility from individual pilots to the operating organizations. As the FAA's BVLOS framework approaches implementation, AirData's extensive flight database and operational insights position it as a key player in the evolving drone industry. The company’s platform already aligns with the anticipated regulatory requirements, showcasing its readiness for the future of large-scale drone operations in various sectors.
News
JD 7Fresh Launches Unmanned Robot Coffee Shop, Sets Guinness Record for Speed
JD 7Fresh has inaugurated its first 24-hour unmanned robot coffee shop in Beijing, achieving a Guinness World Record by serving 202 cups in one hour. This innovative venture raises questions about the potential for robot cafes to replace traditional human baristas in the coffee industry. The significance of this development lies in the intersection of technology and consumer experience, as JD 7Fresh explores automation in food and beverage service. The record-setting speed of under 18 seconds per cup highlights the efficiency of robotic systems in a sector traditionally dominated by human interaction. Looking ahead, industry observers will be keen to see how this initiative influences consumer preferences and whether it leads to broader adoption of robotic solutions in cafes and restaurants. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
FUTURE WARFARE | Sea - Autonomous Surface Vessels & Unmanned Underwater Vehicles — The Hybrid Fleet Takes Shape
Ukraine’s ‘Sub Sea Baby’ autonomous torpedo struck a Russian Kilo-class submarine inside Novorossiysk harbour in December 2025 — the first confirmed underwater drone attack on a submarine in history. The U.S. Navy is requesting $5.3 billion for unmanned maritime systems in FY2026, a 70 percent year-on-year increase. Saronic Technologies went from prototype to $392 million production contract in under 12 months. And DARPA’s Manta Ray XL-UUV completed full-scale sea trials. This article maps the maritime autonomous systems revolution — from Ukraine’s improvised Black Sea fleet to the Pentagon’s hybrid manned–unmanned force of the 2030s, and from Saronic’s Franklin, Louisiana shipyard to Boeing’s 85-tonne robot submarine.
How Titanium Is Quietly Rewiring the Future of Robotics
Titanium’s strength-to-weight and corrosion resistance are reshaping robotics hardware, from lighter limbs to durable joints that unlock next-gen performance.
