Testination and Ocean Autonomy Cluster have been appointed as one of eight new Katapult nodes under the Norwegian Katapult program. This marks an important step towards strengthening Norwegian industrial innovation, particularly in ocean autonomy. The new katapult node, Testination, will serve as a national center for testing, developing, and implementing autonomous technologies for the ocean industries and is part of Digitalization (DigiCat) under the Norwegian Katapult program.
“For the Trondheim community, it is important that we now have a complete toolbox with a cluster, incubator, and katapult. This is a triad of tools that few others have, and it's focused on ocean technology, which is something we in Trondheim should excel at,” says Ocean Autonomy Cluster leader, Frode Halvorsen.
“Testination is also a test center at a higher level than what we usually have in terms of research infrastructure in Trondheim,” he adds.
Autonomy for the Future
As a katapult node, Testination, in collaboration with the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, will be a key tool for companies wishing to develop and test autonomous solutions in the ocean space. This will provide both small and large companies with the opportunity to accelerate innovation, strengthen competitiveness, and contribute to the sustainable development of the ocean industries.
“Autonomous technology in the ocean is a crucial part of the future industry. With our new role as a Katapult node, we will provide companies access to state-of-the-art testing facilities and industrial expertise,” says Frode Halvorsen.
A National Boost for Ocean Autonomy
Norwegian Katapult is already a well-established national program that supports innovation and sustainable development within Norwegian industry.
Through collaboration with strong industrial environments, the new Katapult node in Trondheim will enhance efforts in digitalization and autonomy. This will ensure that Norwegian companies can test, verify, and commercialize new autonomous solutions faster and with lower risk.
“We are proud to be part of this important initiative. It will give the ocean industries a significant boost and help Norway remain a leader in ocean autonomy,” says Frode Halvorsen.
Siva Strengthens Test Infrastructure
Siva – The Industrial Development Corporation of Norway, together with Innovation Norway, has selected the eight new nodes based on their ability to deliver strong industrial solutions. The new structure makes it easier for companies across Norway to access test infrastructure regardless of geography and supports faster transitions and increased innovation capacity.
See also
For more information
Ocean Autonomy Cluster
Frode Halvorsen, Cluster Leader
Email: frode@fi-nor.no
Phone: +47 918 45 969