(Photo from Ocean Aero)
Ocean Aero is expanding its operations at the Port of Gulfport in a $4 million investment expected to create 45 jobs.
The expansion will increase the company’s manufacturing capacity for its TRITON autonomous underwater and surface vehicle, which is designed to collect and transmit data from above and below the ocean’s surface.
“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,” Ocean Aero CEO Kevin Decker said. “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.”
Ocean Aero’s latest investment includes improvements to its existing facility at the Port of Gulfport and the purchase of new manufacturing equipment. The company plans to rehabilitate approximately 25,000 square feet currently used for storage and convert the space into production-ready manufacturing space.
The additional capacity will allow Ocean Aero to increase production of its TRITON platform.
The TRITON is an environmentally powered autonomous vehicle capable of operating both on the ocean’s surface and underwater. The system can collect data and relay information from remote locations, supporting defense, research and energy missions.
Gov. Tate Reeves said the expansion demonstrates Mississippi’s ability to attract and retain companies developing advanced technologies.
“Advanced technologies are changing the future of manufacturing, and Mississippi is making sure we’re part of it,” Reeves said. “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.”
The Mississippi Development Authority is assisting with building improvements, while Harrison County also is contributing to the project.
“The work doesn’t end when a company chooses Mississippi,” MDA Executive Director Bill Cork said. “Helping innovative Mississippi manufacturers like Ocean Aero continue investing and expanding is central to MDA’s mission.”
Cork said the expansion shows what can be accomplished when companies have partnerships that allow them to quickly scale operations, add jobs and continue investing in Mississippi.
Harrison County Development Commission Executive Director Bill Lavers also pointed to Ocean Aero’s growth since its beginnings in California.
“From its humble beginnings in San Diego, Ocean Aero has grown to become a global leader in innovation and is now headquartered in Gulfport,” Lavers said. “We have enjoyed being part of their journey, highlighting Mississippi’s workforce and strategic partnerships.”
The 45 new jobs and additional manufacturing space represent the latest stage of Ocean Aero’s growth in Gulfport as the company works to meet increasing demand for autonomous maritime technology.
More information about Ocean Aero is available at oceanaero.com.