(Photo from Ocean Aero)
- “Demand for our autonomous maritime capabilities is growing rapidly, and this expansion positions Ocean Aero to deliver TRITON systems at greater scale in support of our customers and their missions,” said Ocean Aero CEO Kevin Decker.
The Mississippi Development Authority announced Friday that Ocean Aero is expanding its operations in Gulfport.
Ocean Aero has developed the TRITON, an environmentally powered autonomous underwater and surface vehicle that collects data above and below the ocean’s surface and relays information from virtually anywhere. The company said system supports defense, research and energy missions through autonomous capabilities that enable efficient deployment, operation and recovery.
The company’s latest investment of $4 million will be seen in building improvements and new manufacturing equipment at its existing facility at the Port of Gulfport.
The project includes rehabilitating 25,000 square feet currently used for storage and converting it into production-ready manufacturing space. The improvements, which will help the company create 45 jobs, will provide the capacity needed to increase production of the TRITON platform.
“Demand for our autonomous maritime capabilities is growing rapidly, and this expansion positions Ocean Aero to deliver TRITON systems at greater scale in support of our customers and their missions. Our Gulfport headquarters is the epicenter of Ocean Aero’s growth, and we’re excited to continue investing in our facility, our workforce and the state of Mississippi,” said Ocean Aero CEO Kevin Decker.
Governor Tate Reeves commended the expansion announcement, saying advanced technologies are changing the future of manufacturing, “and Mississippi is making sure we’re part of it.”
“Ocean Aero’s expansion in Gulfport means more investment, more high-quality jobs and more proof that companies developing next-generation technologies can succeed here. The state is proud to support that growth,” Reeves said.
The Mississippi Development Authority noted that the state agency is assisting with building improvements while Harrison County is also contributing to the project.
“The work doesn’t end when a company chooses Mississippi. Helping innovative Mississippi manufacturers like Ocean Aero continue investing and expanding is central to MDA’s mission. This latest win goes to show what’s possible when a company has the right partnerships to quickly scale its operations, create jobs and continue building for the future right here in Mississippi,” said Mississippi Development Authority Executive Director Bill Cork.
