The propulsion specialist Rolls-Royce and the US company Sea Machines Robotics want to offer complete automation solutions together in the future.
A corresponding agreement for a “strategic cooperation” was signed at the Monaco Yacht Show. The collaboration is intended to deliver comprehensive remote control, autonomous control and intelligent support systems for the marine industry and complement Rolls-Royce’s “mtu NautIQ portfolio” for automation, according to a statement.
The aim is to bundle the expertise in the development and sale of fully and semi-autonomous ship control systems. The combination of the solutions should offer customers in the shipping industry “significant advantages in terms of ship operation, safety, efficiency and environmental compatibility”. As part of the agreement, Rolls-Royce Power Systems will receive sales and service rights for existing and future Sea Machines products. The two companies will also work together on new functions.
“Logical step” and “milestone”
Claudius Müller, Head of Business Development for the marine business at Rolls-Royce Power Systems, said: “Our aim is to offer highly innovative and integrated solutions – from propulsion, ship automation and bridge systems to semi-autonomous and fully autonomous control systems, complemented by our digital solutions. Following the acquisition of Servowatch and the addition of bridge systems to our newly launched mtu NautIQ portfolio, the agreement with Sea Machines is the logical next step.”
Moran David, Chief Commercial Officer at Sea Machines, said: “This partnership is a milestone for the maritime industry. It is an exciting time for the future of the marine industry.”
