OCIUS AWARDED $176M PROGRAM OF RECORD TO DELIVER ONE OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST FLEETS OF UNCREWED SURFACE VESSELS

The Australian Government will acquire the Australian-designed and built Bluebottle uncrewed surface vessel (USV) to enhance the Royal Australian Navy’s undersea warfare capabilities.

Defence is investing $176 million in the Bluebottle USV capability. The funding creates a Program of Record, supporting Ocius Technology to deliver a fleet of Bluebottle USVs over a five-year contract commencing in early 2026. This adds to the 15 Bluebottles delivered to the Navy - the majority of which are supporting Operation Resolute by providing maritime surveillance in Australia’s northern approaches.

Bluebottles will provide near-persistent, long-range surface and sub-surface intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities to protect Australia from increasing maritime security threats.

This contract will enhance Defence’s capabilities by providing a fleet of USVs to detect and monitor undersea threats. The Royal Australian Navy already owns 15 Registered Vessel Bluebottle USVs. Under the contract, the Navy’s expanded Bluebottle Fleet will be manufactured at Ocius’ new, state-of-the-art facility in Sydney, strengthening Australia’s sovereign capability in advanced maritime defence technologies. Production is supported by an additional facility in the NSW Hunter region and a strong Australian supply chain. This landmark agreement represents one of the largest-ever global acquisition contracts for uncrewed surface vessels.

The procurement follows successful contracts with the Australian Government supporting the Australian Border Force, where Ocius Bluebottles are deployed to provide 24/7 persistent maritime intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) operations for surface threat detection.

The Bluebottle is a groundbreaking Australian-designed USV powered by solar, wind and wave energy enabling long-endurance operations while maintaining an acoustically quiet environment for superior underwater surveillance. The Bluebottle’s patented design allows it to operate across Australia’s vast maritime domain while carrying sophisticated payloads, providing continuous low- observable surface and subsurface ISR capability. Bluebottle USVs work in a teamed environment with other undersea and surface assets, creating an interoperable suite of capabilities for an integrated force.

The new Fleet will significantly enhance Australia’s ability to monitor and protect its maritime borders, delivering a cost-effective, persistent and sovereign capability for a nation responsible for one of the world’s largest maritime areas.

Quotes attributable to Robert Dane, Chief Executive Officer of Ocius Technology:

“We are very proud to announce this Australian Program of Record for the acquisition of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs). For more than two decades, we have invested in building a world-class product and manufacturing capability right here in Australia. This contract represents a major milestone for the company and for Australia’s sovereign maritime technology sector.

The ability to operate a large, integrated fleet of low-cost uncrewed surface vessels is a strategic advantage for a nation surrounded by ocean. Australia is recognised globally for its advanced maritime technologies, demonstrated through our patented innovations, including our renewable energy system and winch-in-keel design.

These Bluebottles are like ‘satellites of the sea’, delivering ISR capabilities that keep constant watch over and under our oceans at disruptively low cost.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry, The Hon Pat Conroy MP:

“With this investment, the Albanese Government is backing Aussie innovation and a world-leading platform that is already playing a critical role in our maritime security.

As we face a new era of global uncertainty, it’s critical that we give our defence forces the capabilities they need to safeguard Australia.

This investment in a new fleet of Bluebottle USVs will strengthen border protection and help us guard against increasing maritime threats.”

Quotes attributable to Head of Navy Capability, Rear Admiral Stephen Hughes AM CSC:

"Ocius Bluebottle uncrewed surface vessels will provide the Australian Defence Force with flexible, persistent and capable long-range intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

The Bluebottle provides operational advantage and flexibility, being able to carry multiple modular payloads for multiple missions. These vessels can autonomously monitor designated areas for lengths of time in dangerous and harsh maritime conditions.

The Ocius contract represents a significant step forward in the acquisition of uncrewed systems for the Royal Australian Navy and it highlights how innovative partnerships deliver results for Navy capability.”