Unmanned systems manufacturer secures $30m contract to support US Navy ROV missions

Pottstown, Pennsylvania-based underwater robotics company BlueHalo has been awarded a US$30,735,784 contract to provide systems engineering and support services for its maritime expeditionary standoff response (MESR) remotely operated vehicle (ROV).

The five-year contract was issued by the Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Pacific and supports the US Navy’s ongoing operations utilising the ROVs.

The award follows the US Navy’s US$92.6 million MESR contract awarded to VideoRay in May 2024 and enables BlueHalo to continue supporting the US Navy with advanced underwater robotic technology for expeditionary missions, mine countermeasures, and underwater security.

VideoRay was acquired by BlueHalo last year.

The ROV's modular design enables easy maintenance and seamless integration with a variety of tools.

The configuration selected by the US Navy is designed for more precise control of the vehicle position and orientation, heavier payloads, and demanding intervention, such as rendering unexploded ordnance safe.

With seven thrusters, the ROV is able to move in any direction and maintain active pitch to face the vehicle in an upward or downward orientation.

The craft is rated for operation at depths of up to 1,000 metres.