Florida Atlantic University and Blue Ops, a maritime division of Red Cat Holdings, have established a strategic partnership that will bring the company’s uncrewed maritime systems operations to FAU’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute in Fort Pierce, creating a hub for research, development, testing, training and collaboration in ocean technology, autonomous systems and national defense.
“This is precisely the kind of strategic partnership that can amplify the strengths of both organizations,” said FAU President Adam Hasner. “Florida Atlantic brings the world-class oceanographic resources of Harbor Branch, expertise in autonomous systems and national defense, and a talented pipeline of students and researchers. Blue Ops brings advanced maritime technologies and strong connections to the defense industry. Together, we can move research from the lab to real-world applications, provide students with meaningful opportunities and extend the impact of innovation developed at Florida Atlantic, creating lasting benefits for our region, state and nation.”
The partnership brings together complementary capabilities in a setting uniquely suited to maritime technology development. FAU Harbor Branch is a secure, 144-acre, deep-water port and provides access to the ocean, waterfront infrastructure, marine scientists and engineers, specialized equipment and decades of experience developing technologies for challenging ocean environments. Blue Ops will bring expertise in uncrewed surface vessels, maritime autonomy, mission systems and open architectures…