HAV Group completes acquisition of dynamic positioning systems provider Undheim Systems

HAV Group ASA has today successfully completed the acquisition of Undheim Systems AS, a provider of dynamic positioning (DP) systems for vessels. Undheim Systems will be integrated with HAV Group’s subsidiary Norwegian Electric Systems (NES) to develop semi-autonomous and autonomous vessel capabilities.

“We are really pleased to acquire the dynamic positioning (DP) technologies that Undheim Systems has developed and commercialised. We will couple these with our own smart navigation system to provide solutions that control vessels at all speeds and enables semi-autonomous functionality,” says Gunnar Larsen, CEO of HAV Group.

Undheim Systems AS has successfully commercialised a highly flexible and competitive DP system for vessels of all sizes, including even the smallest workboats. So far Undheim Systems has delivered its DP systems to approximately 60 vessels, which include fishing vessels, workboats and service vessels in the fish farming industry, and others.

By merging NES’ Raven INS intelligent navigation system with Undheim Systems’ DP technology, NES will provide solutions that control vessels at all speeds and enable semi-autonomous functionality.

“The technology acquisition is a strategic move that accelerates our plans to offer digital functionality that meets the global maritime market’s needs for autonomous ship operations,” says Siv Remøy-Vangen, managing director of NES.

Undheim Systems will co-locate with NES’ office in Egersund, Norway.

The combination of Undheim Systems and Norwegian Electric Systems’ technologies can provide an important piece of the jigsaw towards autonomous vessels.

“The delivery of automatic docking systems for ferries is one of the first steps we will explore together,” adds Remøy-Vangen.

HAV Group ASA has acquired 100 percent of the shares in Undheim Systems AS, settled partly in cash and partly through shares in HAV Group ASA.