The company is a global leader in underwater robotics and sensor systems used for ocean mapping, monitoring, and surveying. Its solutions integrate hydroacoustic, optical, and scientific sensors with advanced data networks and visualisation tools.
“This strategic decision reflects our commitment to support the growing demand for advanced subsea technology in the U.S. market,” said Martin Wien Fjell, President of Kongsberg Discovery. “By establishing domestic production capabilities, we aim to strengthen our U.S.-based supply chain and enhance our responsiveness to the evolving needs of our government and commercial customers. This demand has increased as global tension has risen.”
Kongsberg Discovery has already delivered HUGIN vehicles to the U.S. Navy and various government, commercial, and academic institutions. The move to U.S. production follows increased defence sector demand and greater recognition of HUGIN’s capabilities among naval customers.
According to Fjell, the company’s innovation has produced systems that meet several high-priority U.S. naval requirements. “Kongsberg Discovery plan to start the HUGIN production at our existing facility in Lynnwood, Washington. The future production facility is yet to be decided,” he said.
HUGIN is currently in use by 12 navies worldwide for missions including intelligence preparation, mine countermeasures, seabed warfare, and seafloor mapping. “We are excited to bring our many years of AUV experience in support of the U.S. military. This is a major project that supports the management’s decision to invest in a production and assembly facility for HUGIN in the US,” Fjell continued.
Kongsberg Discovery U.S. has long served as the exclusive supplier and integrator of sonar equipment for American oceanographic missions. Since 1989, the company has supported over 30 ships in U.S. government and academic fleets, including the T-AGS 60 class and T-ARC.
In addition to science mission packages, Kongsberg Discovery U.S. has provided the U.S. government with uncrewed underwater platform solutions. The company currently employs around 900 people across 15 sites in the U.S. and Canada, with all business areas represented and a plan to expand its North American footprint further.
