Les saken på norsk Norwegian ocean technology is entering new and exciting markets. At the fourth XLRTR program session, participants received practical tools to strengthen communication and strategy, while also engaging with new international initiatives that can open doors for their technology in the defense market, both in Norway, internationally, and in Ukraine. Dual-use refers to technology developed for civilian purposes that can also be used for military applications. Andreas Birger Johansen from Halogen. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Communication and market strategy in practice Over two intensive days, participants explored how messages can be tailored to different actors within the defense sector. The session was led by Jens Inge Hydnøy and Andreas Birger Johansen from Halogen, who guided participants in developing precise and visual communication solutions for both operational levels and decision-makers. Pål Rune Johansen, WaterLinked. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Exciting participant companies Companies in the XLRTR program include Zeabuz, Ocean Access, Clarify, Link Nordic, Water Linked, and Senti-Systems, representing a wide and exciting range of Norwegian autonomous ocean technology. They are all members of Ocean Autonomy Cluster or NORDSEC - Nordic Defence and Security Cluster. Clarify develops software for data-driven insights, while Water Linked provides sensor technology for underwater operations. Zeabuz works on autonomous surface vessel solutions, and Link Nordic is a distributor of technical components. Senti-Systems specializes in communication in GNSS-denied environments, and Ocean Access develops data and communication buoys that can also operate submerged. Together, they demonstrate how Norwegian technology can contribute to solutions that strengthen societal security while having broad applications in civilian markets. Jens Inge Hydnøy at Halogen. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Program and partners The program is led by Ocean Autonomy Cluster and NORDSEC Defence and Security Cluster, drawing on additional resources from FI Ocean Space Incubator, MIDAS, and Testination, all of which provide expertise, testing capabilities, and innovation support. Over four sessions, participants have gained insight into the dual-use market, corporate law and business regulations, capital and partner strategy, and now communication and market approach. Sigmund Henningsen explains how SentiSystems provides navigation solutions when GPS signals are unavailable. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Ready for Defense Innovation Highway As part of the program, participants also met Ukrainian representatives from the Defense Innovation Highway (DIH), a Danish initiative and platform to strengthen collaboration on defense innovation between Ukraine and the Nordic countries. We have made great progress in the development and use of maritime drones. We see great benefit in closer collaboration with partners in Norway on autonomous technology, said Dennis from DIH. The session also provided information on how DIH can facilitate faster cooperation and open new opportunities for dual-use technology internationally. Henrik Stray and Carl Johansson at Zeabuz. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Rewarding and inspiring The goal is to prepare ocean technology companies for deliveries to both defense and emergency markets as well as civilian customers, providing them with tools to grow into larger defense programs. Among major international programs the XLRTR companies are preparing to join is NATO’s DIANA (Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic), which connects startups, research environments, and investors more closely with the defense sector to test and develop new technology faster. In Norway, LINK (Long-term Incentives for Knowledge and Innovation) supports SMEs in development and partnerships, helping them position themselves in the defense market. On a European level, EDF (European Defence Fund) funds R&D projects and provides resources for industry and research actors collaborating across member states. Through the fourth session, participants strengthened their ability to build clear and targeted messages, an important step toward positioning in a complex and demanding market. The process has been rewarding and inspiring, giving us new perspectives and practical takeaways. We gained a better understanding of operational needs and see great benefit in closer collaboration on autonomous maritime solutions, commented one of the participants. Thomas Olaussen, Link Nordic. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Meet XLRTR companies at the Defense Conference As part of the XLRTR program, the companies will also participate with a shared stand at the Defense Conference on 24 September. There, they will present their solutions and meet potential partners and customers at one of the most important gatherings for the Norwegian defense and security industry. The Defense Conference is organized by NORDSEC along with several partners. Syver Rønningen and Miriam Damhaug Hoel inform about the stands at the Defense Conference. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Do you want to join XLRTR? XLRTR is an acceleration/scaleup program for ocean tech companies with the ambition and potential to go into the dual-use market. Only for Norwegian companies. XLRTR - Request for more information Pictures from XLRTR Tore Norheim Hagtun at Clarify. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Andreas Birger Johansen at Halogen. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Ingrid Margrethe Sandnes, manger of FI Ocean Space Incubator. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Henrik Stray and Carl Johansson i Zeabuz. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Carl Johansson, Zeabuz. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Thomas Olaussen, Link Nordic and Pål Rune Johansen, WaterLinked. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri
Les saken på norsk Trondheim-based company Eelume has had its Eelume S All-Terrain Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) acquired by Equinor. The acquisition follows a successful demonstration in which Eelume S proved it could operate under demanding subsea conditions, showing it is ready for commercial deployment. Eelume's CEO Thomas Nygaard and CTO Pål Liljebäck. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster A versatile subsea drone The Eelume S combines long-range survey capabilities with all-terrain maneuverability, extending the operational scope of autonomous underwater vehicles into areas traditionally dominated by tethered, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). This versatility allows Equinor to use the drone for a wide range of tasks, from large-area mapping to close-up visual inspection. “Equinor’s decision to adopt the Eelume S is both a strong validation of our technology and a proud moment for everyone at Eelume,” said Thomas Nygaard, CEO of Eelume. “Moving from demonstration to adoption shows that our vision has become reality, thanks to the dedication and ingenuity of our team. The Eelume S can reach further, last longer, and capture data no other AUV can, while enabling truly sustainable subsea operations. And importantly, we are able to deliver quickly, ensuring that customers can deploy our technology when they need it most. This is a milestone that benefits operators, partners, and the environment alike.” Se also: Eelume joins major Northern European shipwreck exploration project Illustration: Eelume S Equipped for detailed inspection The procurement covers the standard configuration of Eelume S, including advanced imaging systems that deliver clear, high-quality data for inspection and monitoring tasks. “The system is designed to operate smarter and more efficiently, and represents a significant step forward for underwater operations,” Nygaard added. A milestone for Norwegian subsea robotics The acquisition represents an important step for autonomous subsea technology and reinforces Norway’s position as a global leader in offshore innovation. See also: Eelume and PETRONAS enter strategic partnership to advance sustainable subsea operations Photo: Eelume About Eelume Founded in 2015 as a spin-off from NTNU and SINTEF, Eelume develops highly maneuverable autonomous underwater drones for inspection and monitoring of subsea environments. The All-Terrain AUV features advanced acoustic and optical sensors, ultrahigh-resolution 3D photogrammetry, and 2D photomosaics, enabling detailed data collection over large areas and in challenging conditions. Eelume is a member of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster and FI Ocean Space Incubator, actively contributing to research and innovation in subsea technology. Its solutions are used for monitoring energy and communication infrastructure, as well as mapping coral reefs and archaeological sites underwater. Contact: Eelume AS Email: contact@eelume.com Phone: +47 465 00 700 Website: https://www.eelume.com Se also: Eelume and Green Bay collaborate to remove ghost traps and lost fishing gear
Les saken på norsk NORDSEC and Ocean Autonomy Cluster were pleased to host Esben Gadsbøll, Chairman and co-initiator of Danish Tech Startups and one of the initiators behind the Defense Innovation Highway, together with Sigbjørn Albertsen from the Norwegian-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce (NUCC). The visit to Trondheim was part of efforts to strengthen Norwegian-Ukrainian technological cooperation, with a particular focus on ocean and defense technologies. The program included a visit to Operasjon Gugne, the training program where the Norwegian Home Guard in Trøndelag provides instruction to Ukrainian soldiers, giving the guests close insight into cooperation on the ground. As part of the visit, the guests were also introduced to pioneering research and technological solutions for autonomous maritime systems at the NTNU Shore Control Lab. They later visited Veteranhuset Midt-Norge, where they received an introduction to veteran work in Trondheim and the house’s strong engagement in support for Ukraine. Maxime Audrain from NTNU demonstrates the Shore Control Lab for Sigbjørn Albertsen from NUCC. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Next step: Tech meetup in Trondheim Following the visit, plans are now underway to organize a Norwegian-Ukrainian tech meetup in Trondheim in collaboration with the Ocean Autonomy Cluster. The aim is to create a physical arena where innovators, startups, academia, and businesses from both countries can come together. The event will have a particular emphasis on ocean technology, defense technology, and the development of new opportunities for cooperation. Demonstration at NTNU Shore Control Lab. From left: Maxime Audrain, NTNU; Esben Gadsbøll, Danish Tech Startups; Sigbjørn Albertsen, NUCC; and Tevje Ravn Eggan, NORDSEC. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Defense Innovation Highway The Defense Innovation Highway is a platform established to accelerate cooperation in defense innovation between Ukraine and the Nordic countries. By connecting startups, investors, and private-sector defense actors, DIH helps bring forward innovation with rapid implementation, including through delegation visits and networking arenas in both Ukraine and the Nordics. Norwegian-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce The Norwegian-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce (NUCC) is a member-based, non-commercial organization established in 2008 to promote business and trade relations between Norway and Ukraine. The organization contributes to a better understanding of the Ukrainian market and facilitates collaboration between companies in both countries through networking, advisory services, matchmaking, and support for sustainable development.
Les saken på norsk At DALO Industry Days in Denmark, the Copenhagen Orca sea drone was unveiled before a broad international audience. Developed in less than nine months, the new unmanned surface vessel (USV) has already drawn attention for its combination of speed, range, and autonomy. Trondheim-based Maritime Robotics has played a key role in the development. The Orca is designed for surveillance of vast maritime areas and protection of critical infrastructure both above and below the waterline. The vessel measures 13 meters in length, weighs just over five tons, and offers a payload capacity of 825 kilograms. With a top speed exceeding 40 knots, a range of 1,400 nautical miles (approx. 2,593 km) at low speed, and endurance of up to six weeks, it represents a significant technological leap in maritime security. Its wave-piercing hull ensures high stability even in demanding seas. Equipped with advanced sensors, communication systems, and cloud- and AI-based real-time data processing, the platform is jam-resistant and scalable for serial production. Built at an existing offshore wind facility in Denmark, the vessel can be delivered rapidly and in larger numbers. Photo: Copenhagen Group Norwegian autonomy at the heart of Orca Trondheim-based Maritime Robotics has been central to the project, delivering the “brain” that enables the Copenhagen Orca to operate independently, navigate challenging waters, and carry out missions without human intervention. For Maritime Robotics, the contribution is not only about enabling a single drone but about building a reliable, intelligent platform capable of safeguarding critical infrastructure and coastlines efficiently and sustainably. Maritime Robotics CEO Vegard Evjen Hovstein emphasizes that the project demonstrates how collaboration between technology-driven companies provides strategic advantages in rapidly changing security environments: “This collaboration is proof that specialized, technology-intensive companies can create significant strategic advantages when working together. It’s about more than individual products. It’s about building an ecosystem of expertise that can quickly adapt to today’s security challenges,” Hovstein says. Vegard Hovstein, CEO i Maritime Robotics. Photo: Berre Nordic cooperation in the lead The Orca is developed by Copenhagen Group in close cooperation with partners across the Nordics and internationally. The collaboration illustrates how a robust technological community can deliver advanced defense capabilities in record time. For Nordsec and Norwegian defense suppliers, the launch showcases how Nordic cooperation and Norwegian technology help maintain the region’s leading position in maritime autonomy and security. The development of the Orca is the result of close cooperation between Copenhagen Global and partners such as Maritime Robotics, Teledyne RESON, Teledyne FLIR, Radionor Communications, Microsoft, and Atreides. Following successful sea trials, the production line is already up and running. Photo: Copenhagen Group Copenhagen Global is also planning several additional vessel classes. The Copenhagen Sealeopard, another 13-meter platform, is set to launch later in 2025, followed by the 21-meter ocean-going Copenhagen Seawolf in 2026. Maritime Robotics will play a key role in these projects as well. Maritime Robotics is a member of both the Nordsec Defence and Security Cluster and the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, and also part of the FI Ocean Space Incubator. You can meet the company at the Defence Conference later this autumn. Video from the unveiling
OceanTech has opened a new office in Perth, Western Australia, in partnership with Pulse Technology, strengthening support for operators across the state’s offshore energy sector and beyond. Perth’s role as a gateway to the Indian Ocean—and its concentration of offshore assets—made it the natural choice for OceanTech’s next step. The new office connects operators with our remotely operated robotic solutions for cleaning, inspection, modification and repair in the splash zone—work that demands precision, safety and a minimal environmental footprint. “Our mission has always been to solve the hardest jobs in the splash zone safely and predictably,” said Bernt Schjetne, CEO of OceanTech. “By establishing a presence in Perth with Pulse Technology, we’re close to customers and partners, and can mobilise faster with proven tooling and methods tailored to Australian conditions. Read full story at OceanTech.no
Les saken på norsk Blueye Robotics, together with its local partner RVI Tools, has secured a significant international contract to supply underwater remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to the Netherlands Royal Navy. The ROV systems will be delivered with advanced capabilities specifically tailored for military engineers and mine countermeasure (MCM) teams, following a competitive tender process involving multiple international providers. The awarded contract underscores the increasing need for compact and user-friendly underwater systems capable of supporting complex military operations in inshore and coastal environments. Versatile mission profiles The Blueye ROV will be employed in a wide variety of mission profiles. These include diving operations supporting reconnaissance, mobility and counter-mobility tasks, demolitions, and swimmer delivery missions. It will also be used in surface swimmer and small boat operations, such as reconnaissance in wetlands and water-land transition zones, securing sabotage points, and riverine tactical insertion. Military engineer reconnaissance will benefit from the ROV in surveying channels, canals, rivers, and critical water infrastructure including quays, bridges, and locks. In addition, it will assist in harbor protection by enabling both divers and non-divers to conduct underwater inspections and threat detection, aid MCM operations in identifying mine-like objects prior to neutralization, and support civilian authorities in search and recovery (SAR) operations as well as inspections of submerged military wrecks. Robust and modular design The ROV supplied by Blueye is a robust, portable, and modular underwater drone designed to meet the demanding needs of maritime professionals. Its ability to carry a variety of sensors and payloads, such as sonars, positioning systems, and intervention tools, provides high versatility across both military and civilian applications. Reliability and operational excellence The decision to award the contract to Blueye Robotics and RVI Tools was based on key factors including system reliability, sensor modularity, ease of use, and operational flexibility in challenging environments. The ROV’s lightweight design, extended operational runtime, and proven performance in environments ranging from shallow waters to open sea made it a standout solution. Christian Gabrielsen, CEO of Blueye Robotics, says: Together with our highly valued partner, Rutger van Duijn at RVI Tools, we are proud to support the Netherlands Royal Navy with our underwater dual-use ROV technology. This contract demonstrates the global trust in the Blueye ROV platform and reinforces our commitment to developing innovative, easy-to-use tools that enhance mission effectiveness and safety underwater. Christian Gabrielsen, CEO of Blueye Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Training and support In addition to supplying the hardware, Blueye Robotics and RVI Tools will provide on-site training and access to a comprehensive online support platform featuring technical articles and training videos. Rutger van Duijn, owner of RVI Tools, adds: We are proud to collaborate with our trusted partner, Blueye Robotics, to deliver their innovative underwater ROV technology to the Netherlands Royal Navy. This agreement highlights the confidence in the Blueye platform and reflects our shared dedication to providing reliable and user-friendly solutions that improve operational efficiency and safety beneath the surface. We look forward to continuing our strong, long-term relationship with both the Netherlands Royal Navy and Blueye Robotics, supporting their missions with our expertise and commitment. About Blueye Robotics Blueye Robotics is a Norwegian technology company based in Trondheim with roots in the Centre for Autonomous Marine Operations and Systems (AMOS) at NTNU. Since its founding in 2015, Blueye has delivered over 1,300 ROV systems to customers in more than 60 countries, serving sectors including defense, research, aquaculture, and emergency response. Blueye Robotics is a proud member of both the Ocean Autonomy Cluster (OAC) and NORDSEC Defence and Security Cluster, and you can meet them at the Forsvarskonferansen on 24 September. For inquiries about Blueye ROVs or related services, please reach out to Blueye Robotics or RVI Tools.
Les saken på norsk Blueye Robotics has been awarded the contract to deliver underwater drones to the Norwegian Customs. The contract marks a new chapter in the agency’s efforts to strengthen its inspection capabilities below the waterline, with the aim of conducting safer, more efficient, and more thorough inspections of vessels arriving in Norway by sea. The Norwegian Customs uses ROV technology as a central part of its targeted and random inspections in Norwegian ports. The new ROVs from Blueye Robotics will be used to carry out visual inspections of ship hulls – in particular, commercial vessels ranging from 30 to 350 meters in length. Inspections will be conducted either from the quay in industrial ports or from smaller boats positioned alongside the vessel. Christian Gabrielsen, CEO of Blueye Robotics, commented: We are proud to be chosen as the supplier to the Norwegian Customs in their work to modernize and streamline underwater inspections. This is a clear testament that Blueye ROVs meets the high standards for operational flexibility, reliability, and ease of use in demanding environments. At the same time, it reinforces our role as a provider of mission-critical technology. - Christian Gabrielsen, CEO of Blueye Robotics Christian Gabrielsen, Blueye Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens industri Blueye ROVs are robust, portable, and modular systems developed for professional use across both public and private sectors. Weighing only 9 kg, with a battery life of up to 5 hours and the ability to be deployed quickly and easily in the field, the system is ideally suited for mobile inspection operations. The ROVs can be operated from shore or from a boat, providing operators with real-time vision below the surface and the ability to document inspections via the Blueye App. In addition to the delivery, Blueye Robotics will provide training and access to a comprehensive digital support system containing technical documentation and training materials. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens industri Blueye Robotics Blueye Robotics is a Norwegian technology company headquartered in Trondheim, with roots in the Centre for Autonomous Marine Operations and Systems (AMOS) at NTNU. Since 2015, the company has delivered more than 1,300 ROV systems to users in over 60 countries in the defense, emergency response, research, and industrial sectors.
Les saken på norsk Ine Eriksen Søreide (Conservative Party), Chair of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence, Mari Holm Lønseth (Conservative Party), Member of Parliament and member of the Standing Committee on Justice, Henrik Kierulf (Conservative Party), parliamentary candidate, and Ingvill Dalseg (Conservative Party), Chair of the Committee for Business and Industry in Trøndelag County Council and parliamentary candidate, visited Maritime Robotics in Trondheim to see a live demonstration of the Gjallarhorn project. Eirik Hovstein, Vice President Defence & Security at Maritime Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Gjallarhorn is a collaborative initiative between several Norwegian technology companies, developed to provide the Armed Forces and emergency preparedness agencies with enhanced situational awareness in coastal areas. The solution combines autonomous surface vessels, underwater inspection, and advanced data analytics to detect, identify, and monitor potential threats to critical infrastructure. - The technology enables the collection of real-time data both above and below the surface, with automated analysis and user-friendly visualization for decision-makers. The project is a prime example of dual-use technology designed for civilian applications, but with strong relevance for defense and security, says Eirik Hovstein in Maritime Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Demonstration at Maritime Robotics The delegation was hosted by Eirik Hovstein, Vice President Defence & Security at Maritime Robotics, who presented the company’s autonomous surface vessels and explained how they enable surveillance and patrolling without the need for onboard crew. Ebbe Deraas, Cluster Manager at NORDSEC Defence and Security Cluster, outlined how the cluster connects the defense sector with technology companies. Trond Larsen and Oda Ryggen from Blueye Robotics demonstrated the company’s underwater drones, used for infrastructure and object inspections beneath the surface. Tore Norheim Hagtun from Clarify showcased the company’s software for data collection, visualization, and analysis, enabling rapid interpretation of large volumes of sensor data. Ingvill Dalseg and Ine Eriksen Søreide. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri - This makes me proud! The visit gave the parliamentarians and candidates insight into how Norwegian technology companies collaborate to develop solutions that can protect critical infrastructure and strengthen national preparedness. The Gjallarhorn project highlights how partnerships between innovative SMEs and the defense sector can deliver new capabilities that are rapidly deployed to meet an evolving threat landscape. “I’m glad to bring Ine to the technological heart of Trøndelag,” says Ingvill Dalseg. “What we were shown in the harbor basin was not only impressive — it was a glimpse into the future of defense. When three innovative companies, Maritime Robotics, BluEye Robotics, and Clarify, demonstrate their solutions together, we see the strength of Norwegian defense industry. These are not just individual companies, but an ecosystem where the NORDSEC cluster connects expertise into something greater than the sum of its parts. That makes me proud!” she says. “It is both important and encouraging that political leaders in Norway take the time to visit the actors working to develop relevant dual-use technology. This gives them a valuable opportunity to understand both the opportunities SMEs provide and the challenges they face,” says NORDSEC cluster manager Ebbe Deraas. Maritime Robotics, Blueye Robotics, and Clarify are members of both NORDSEC and the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, and key contributors to the Gjallarhorn project. Mari Holm Lønseth and Ebbe Deraas. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Trond Larsen, Mari Holm Lønseth, Ingvill Dalseg and Ine Eriksen Søreide. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Trond Larsen, Blueye Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Tore Norheim Hagtun, Clarify. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri
Les saken på norsk Arendal, 13 August 2025 – In a time of growing threats to critical infrastructure, including at sea, Fremtidens Industri, Ocean Autonomy Cluster, NORDSEC, and partners brought together key figures from defence, business, and politics for a timely panel discussion on how civil ocean technology can strengthen preparedness and surveillance. The event took place aboard MS Lofoten during Arendalsuka and attracted a full house of representatives from both the public and private sectors. Moderator Frode Halvorsen, Cluster Manager at Ocean Autonomy Cluster, led the conversation between Minister of Defence Tore O. Sandvik, Vice President Defence & Security of Maritime Robotics Eirik Hovstein, CEO of Blueye Robotics Christian Gabrielsen, COO of Clarify Bernt-Johan Bergshaven, and Trondheim City Council Leader Kristian Dahlberg Hauge. A growing threat picture at sea The discussion began with the fact that Norway, as a maritime nation, has significant assets under water—assets increasingly exposed to threats from both state and non-state actors. The panel agreed that existing, cost-effective technology from civil actors is already in place and can be scaled to cover large parts of the Norwegian coastline. “The Armed Forces must—and will—become more innovative. It will still be difficult to enter the defence industry; you have to win the competition,” emphasised Minister of Defence Tore O. Sandvik. SMEs must be allowed to deliver From the industry side, Eirik Hovstein of Maritime Robotics pointed out that achieving real change requires both time and collaboration, noting that smaller actors can act quickly, while larger organisations need more time to change course. “I agree that we have to win the competition, and we’re ready for that—but that assumes we know about the competition,” Hovstein said. “Today’s threat landscape demands a renewed focus on how we secure our critical infrastructure. To meet these challenges, close cooperation with civil actors who have specialised expertise in ocean technology is absolutely essential for the Armed Forces,” he added. COO Bernt-Johan Bergshaven from Clarify highlighted a challenge faced by many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs): “It’s difficult to get insight into what SMEs can contribute,” he said, calling for better dialogue channels between SMEs and the defence sector. Smaller companies often end up competing with departments within larger corporations. Procurement processes must therefore be adapted to make it possible for SMEs to participate and deliver. Ready-to-use technology solutions Clarify, Maritime Robotics, and Blueye Robotics all presented concrete solutions already in commercial use but adaptable for monitoring and securing critical infrastructure. From the municipal side, Kristian Dahlberg Hauge stressed the importance of having local preparedness and technological competence in place before crises occur. Organised by Trondheim, the technology capital The event was organised by Trondheim, the technology capital, in collaboration with Trondheim Tech Port, Ocean Autonomy Cluster, Trøndelag County Council, Trondheim Municipality, and the Trondheim Region Chamber of Commerce.
Les saken på norsk During Arendalsuka, member companies from NORDSEC and the Ocean Autonomy Cluster came together to showcase some of the most advanced solutions in defence technology and maritime autonomy. The demonstrations offered the audience a unique insight into how Norwegian innovation can enhance preparedness, operational capability, and security — at sea, in the air, and on land. The featured technology included the Gjallarhorn concept — a combination of multiple autonomous maritime platforms, advanced sensor systems, and solutions for secure, robust surveillance in challenging environments. Participating member companies were Clarify, Maritime Robotics, Blueye Robotics, and LGr Technologies, collectively highlighting the strength of the clusters’ networks and their ability to connect expertise and technology. Attendees gained first-hand insight into the latest innovations that can strengthen Norwegian defence and preparedness. “We wanted to use Arendalsuka as an arena to demonstrate how technology development in the defence sector and the maritime sector can go hand in hand,” said Frode Halvorsen, Cluster Manager of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster. “Our members are developing solutions that can strengthen national security. Being able to present these to decision-makers and defence stakeholders at Arendalsuka is extremely valuable.” Demonstrates the value of dual-use Ebbe Deraas, Cluster Manager of NORDSEC, highlighted that the event demonstrated the value of dual-use technology for protecting critical infrastructure. “The participating companies showcased mature civilian technology that is already being used by military forces in other countries. We have shown that cross-sector innovation can create solutions that make a real difference,” he said.