Kongsberg to commence manufacture of AUVs at its US facilities

Kongsberg Discovery has decided to start production of its Hugin autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) in the United States, with distribution of the craft to customers to be undertaken by Kongsberg Discovery US (formerly Kongsberg Underwater Technology).

"This strategic decision reflects our commitment to support the growing demand for advanced subsea technology in the US market," said Martin Wien Fjell, President of Kongsberg Discovery.

"By establishing domestic production capabilities, we aim to strengthen our US-based supply chain and enhance our responsiveness to the evolving needs of our government and commercial customers."

Kongsberg Discovery has already delivered examples of the Hugin AUV to the US Navy and other organisations within the US Government as well as in the commercial and academic sectors.

Kongsberg said that, due to increased demand from the defence sector and recognition of the capabilities of its unmanned underwater vehicles among US Navy customers, a strategic decision has been made to expand investment in the United States.

According to Fjell, the company's ongoing development has resulted in systems that address a range of "high-priority naval requirements."

“Kongsberg Discovery plan[s] to start Hugin production at our existing facility in Lynnwood, Washington," said Fjell. "The future production facility is yet to be decided."